Motorboat Owner October 2018

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Motorboat OCTOBER 2018

Owner Affordable practical boating

USED BOAT GUIDE

Sealine F34 Finnmaster Husky R8S l Nord Star 25S l SBS 2018 Review

PRACTICAL

Cruising overseas

Welcome to the October issue.

From the Editor

contact us

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

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Despite our births being a year apart, both myself and the Southampton Boat Show celebrated the big five zero this year. While I disgraced myself with close friends and family, Southampton’s celebration was a far more dignified affair. Yes, there was a bit of wind and rain, but I think it’s fair to say that both occasions were suitably marked and, as our own tribute to the 50th Southampton

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

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October 2018

Elsewhere in this issue we have the story of how one boater has managed to cram in owning 16 boats in just 33 years. Mike Thomas, it would appear, is a man who wants to enjoy as many different types of motorboat as is humanly possible, and who can blame him? Only this month I tested a boat that questioned my own perceptions a little. The Husky R8s is a boat that I could easily change my habits to own. It may not have a cabin, galley or toilet, but when you have 350 of Yamaha’s finest under your right hand, and the ability to reach speeds of over 50 knots in such a competent manner, this seems like a trivial matter. Yes, you can take it Boat Show, we have brought you a nostalgic that I liked the R8s, and I have added it to the list of boats that I would look back through the years. This month dearly love to own. The trouble is, in we also bring you all of the latest in news, the unlikely event that I am ever in a boats, engines and equipment from the position to realize my boat wish list, show, and there is plenty to get excited I would need a Mike Thomas level of about. In fact, there were more new boats determination and somewhere than we could fit on these pages, but we in the region of plan to arrange some tests of the best new models over the next few months, so keep another 50 years. downloading.

welcome aboard

2018 marked the 50th Southampton Boat Show. Read our report starting on page 16

Sub Editor, Pam Born Production Editor, John Frew

Subscriptions: 01268 922991 subscriptions@motorboatowner.co.uk

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

Contributors: Alex Smith, Richard Allen, Pam Born, Mike Thomas Cover photo: Original publicity image of the Sealine F34 captured in Spain

Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEW PONTOONS FOR 2018 AT

HARTFORD MARINA

CREATING A BETTER OUTLOOK 259 New berths on floating pontoons

OUR PROMISE As part of our commitment to develop and re-develop our inland

Free WiFi to all berths

marinas we are commencing the

240v Power to all berths

2nd stage of the new look Hartford

Modern toilet and shower facilities

Marina. Enabling us to offer our customers berthing on state of

Fresh water to all berths

the art floating pontoons on the

Excellent transport links to London

beautiful River Great Ouse as well as

Direct bus services to Cambridge

offering modern facilities in a safe and secure environment.

To book your mooring

CALL NOW 01480 454677 hartfordmarina@tingdene.net

tingdene-marinas.co.uk

FOLLOW OUR PROGRESS ON Hartford Marina Tel 01480 454677 Great River Ouse

Pyrford Marina Tel 01932 343 275 River Wey, Surrey

Thames & Kennet Marina Tel 01189 477 770 River Thames, Caversham

Brundall Bay Marina Tel 01603 396 607 Norfolk Broads

Broadlands Marina Portishead Quays Marina Upton Marina Racecourse Marina, Windsor Tel 01603 396 608 Tel 01275 397277 Tel 01684 593111 Tel 01753 851 717 The Docks Portishead Lowerstoft, Oulton Broad Upton upon Severn River Thames, Windsor

Walton Marina Tel 01932 221 689 Walton on Thames Stourport Marina Tel 01299 827 082 Stourport on Severn

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2018

REGULARS NEWS page 6 INBOX page 38 Q&A page 70 TESTED page 98 page 50 My Boat Mike Thomas ‘Life in Boats’

WIN a

2.5hp outboard

page 98 Tested Ocean LED Sports underwater lights

p40 PRACTICAL

p37

Cruising Overseas Essential Guide

p86

SOUTHAMPTON REVIEW page 16

page 22 CUTTING EDGE page 32 NEW BOATS

p74

Sealine F34 CLASSIC CRUISER GUIDE

CRUISING Friesland Charter

p60

Nord Star Sport 25

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

p100

BOAT TESTS

Husky R8S

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NEWS TheYachtMarket.com ‘Ocean Saviour’ With the ‘Great Pacific Garbage Patch’ containing an estimated 80,000 tonnes of plastic, the directors of the online boats-forsale resource, TheYachtMarket. com, are championing a project that could see huge catamarans collecting 5 tonnes of rubbish each day from the Pacific Ocean. Described as a ‘crusade for the liberation of our oceans’, the project known as ‘Ocean Saviour’ will see the development of 70-metre, research and retrieval, self-powered catamarans clearing the seas. Costing £40 million per boat, each tri-deck clean-up vessel will be fitted with large scoop arms which funnel rubbish towards, and up, a central collection ramp. The rubbish is then chopped and processed through an onboard plasma gasification facility, which will destroy it completely with minimal atmospheric pollution, with the bi-product of this process being used to fuel the vessel, making it selfpowering. Each streamlined, 18-cabin, 64-crew vessel will be equipped with a laboratory and helipad, and will also be self sufficient, fitted with solar panels and wind generators for powering ancillary systems. To see an animation video of the vessel in action click here.

Garbage-killer cat, huge arms will gather up to 5 tonnes of floating rubbish per day

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October 2018

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

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

RNLI-911 Challenge London couple and committed RNLI supporters, Belinda and James Richardson, set out to combine their love of the British coastline and Porsche’s with raising money for the charity by driving anti-clockwise around the whole of the British Isles and Ireland. The challenge saw them visiting all 238 lifeboat stations in a Porsche 911, in a self-set time of 911 hours with a goal of raising £238 per lifeboat station, and a grand total of £56,644. The couple’s challenge started at Teddington RNLI Lifeboat station on the 23rd of August, with a finish line of the Tower RNLI Lifeboat station in London on the 30th of September. As of the 29th of September the couple were travelling through Kent and visiting stations such as Ramsgate and had raised £7,241 of donations via their website.

Henri Lloyd to return in 2019 The marine clothing manufacturer, Henri Lloyd, has risen again, after going into administration this summer. Swedish company, Aligro Group acquired Henri Lloyd and has established a new headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden, The brand is now looking to introduce a new Performance range in the Spring of 2019. Magnus Liljeblad, CEO of the Henri Lloyd Group, explained that the marine clothing sector and its associated wholesale business has undergone major change worldwide, and boaters will see the number of retailers reducing significantly in the coming years. He added that technical clothing from many brands is looking too similar, a trend that the brand hopes to break.

The collection launching in 2019 comprises 25 styles for men and women and will showcase the ‘new direction’ for Henri Lloyd. With a core UK team retained, Country Manager, Graham Allen, explained “it has been a challenging turnaround to go from just over 60 people to four with all that entails following the administration. However, the new UK team is strong and is well prepared for the task of re-introducing the new brand concept into the UK market.”

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWS 2018 Best of Boats Awards shortlist announced The Best of Boats Awards, known in the industry as the BOB awards, has announced its 2018 shortlist of nominations. This year 21 shortlisted boats have been whittled down from hundreds of boats tested by the 18 jury members over the last 12 months.

With Motorboat Owner’s Neale Byart representing the UK, the jury is made up of boating journalists from Austria, USA, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Croatia and the Ukraine. The shortlisted boats are divided into categories ‘Best for’ fun, beginners, fishing, family and travel. The winners of each category will be announced at an awards ceremony at Berlin Boat and Fun on the 29th of November.

The Targa 27.2 has been nominated in the Best for Family catergory

AWARDS NOMINEES Best for Beginners AMT 190 R Falcon BR 7 Silver Fox Avant/BR Zodiac Open 5.5 Best for Fishing Beneteau Barracuda 6 Boston Whaler 170 Montauk Invictus 200 HX Wellcraft 202 Fisherman Best for Family Jeanneau NC 33 Parker Monaco 110 Targa 27.2

Best for Fun Buster Magnum Glastron GTD 220 Grandezza 25 S Jeanneau Cap Camarat 9.0 WA/CC Best for Travel Beneteau Swift Trawler 35 Grand Banks Eastbay 44 Greenline 39 Linssen Grand Sturdy 45.0 Sedan Prestige 520 Seafaring 44 Flybridge

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NEWS Crewsaver ‘Lifejacket Safe’ campaign The lifejacket manufacturer, Crewsaver has launched a new campaign to encourage users to check, care and maintain their lifejacket.

Speaking about the campaign, Lifejacket Safe, Crewsaver said ‘for some, opening up a lifejacket can be a daunting experience’ so the company has produced a series of ‘How to’ videos, guiding users through the step-by-step process of how to re arm, repack and maintain your lifejacket. Lifejacket Safe ambassador, Hazel Proudlock, says “We don’t want you to be shy when it comes to getting to know your lifejacket.

Open the lifejacket up, check the components and be confident to know that when you are on the water, your lifejacket is prepped and ready for action” Guy Page, Crewsaver’s Training Manager adds “Rearming and repacking your lifejacket is easy.” The videos have been designed to encourage people to wear a lifejacket, and also give them the confidence and support to make sure it is well maintained and fit for purpose. You can see the videos at www.crewsaver.com

Haslar Marina celebrates 25 years In 1993 John Dean and Richard Reddyhoff were welcoming the first berth holders at its Haslar Marina site and, at the 2018 Southampton Boat Show, Dean and Reddyhoff were celebrating its 25th birthday.

Haslar Marina at Gosport was the first of what is now a 5-marina portfolio on the south coast, which includes Weymouth, Portland, East Cowes and Deacons Marina on the River Hamble. In building Haslar, partners Dean and Reddyhoff reclaimed land and dredged the historic Haslar Creek, installing a huge wave break and adopting and refitting its resident clubhouse and restaurant lightship, the Mary Mouse.

25 years on, 22 of its original berth holders are still based at the marina.

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October 2018

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

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Premier Marinas achieve BSI Environment standard South coast marina operator, Premier Marinas, has received ISO 14001:2015 certification, a standard for the effective running of environmental management systems. Claimed to be the first of its kind for a marina group, Premier had to show management of its environmental responsibilities in a review carried out over a six-month period. Premier has installed solar panels at six of its marinas, from which it is on track, in 2018, to generate 417 mwh of electricity, avoiding 226 tons of CO2 emissions. The marina group also ‘recycles all waste across every site, ensuring nothing goes to landfill and has replaced all of its light bulbs in its buildings with energy saving ones with PIR motion sensors’. In other news from the marina group, works are underway for the redesign and reconfiguration of the pontoons at its Swanwick Marina site on the River Hamble. The £8-million works will see the creation of a new Pavillion and Marina Bridgehead Building, with one ramp onto all pontoons.

DIARY DATES Gone Fishing Open Day 6th October Solent Boat Jumble 7th October Scotland’s Boat Show 12th-14th October Kent Boat Jumble 14th October East Hampshire Boat Jumble 4th November Irish Boat Jumble 7th April Beaulieu Boat Jumble April (date TBA) Click any of the above for more info Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

Barrus chandlery expands UK marine company, Barrus has expanded its new marine chandlery division by introducing the G-Nautics range of boat accessories, and Stazo, with its range of steering wheels and marine locking systems. G-Nautics and Stazo, join Talamex and Besto in the Barrus product range.

0800 310 2100

Marine Electronics in stock for immediate dispatch.

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

sales@mdsbattery.co.uk

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NEWS Finnmaster C6 NEW BOAT

The Finnish boat builder, Finnmaster has introduced a cabin version of its S6. The C6 is a stylish and versatile wheelhouse cruiser, which offers an enclosed central wheelhouse, making it ideal for transportation and leisure, day and weekend boating. Features include a cabin door to the practical, sunken bow area and a secure deep aft deck with a useful wraparound, high guardrail around the outboard. Its open plan cabin area offers plenty of forward facing seating, with separate helm and co-pilot seats, with a port dinette and starboard seating converting to single berths. The cabin area also converts into a large thwartships double berth. It is fitted with a single outboard, 100-150hp, which is coupled to a 150-litre fuel tank.

You can see a video of the new model in action here. The new C6 will be available via UK dealer Ideal Boat, prices TBA.

Blackwater Marina hosts Charity Clearance Boat Auction On 7th October, Blackwater Marina in Essex will be hosting a Clearance Boat Auction, Boat Jumble and Water Fun Day. The event at Maylandsea will see 35 boats go under the hammer, with a percentage of the proceeds going to the local RNLI station and other charities. A full list of boats is available via the marina auction webpage and auction lots include a couple of wave gliders, an attractive day boat pictured, a few canoes, an ex-lifeboat hull, several sailing yachts and fishing trawlers. The marina is also holding a ‘bumper’ boat jumble and offering entertainment on and off the water, including RIB rides and RNLI lifeboat tours. The event opens at 10am with the auction being held at 2pm.

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October 2018

THE All Season walkaround Boat since 1978

Visit us at the Southampton Boat Show, berths M226 onwards

Sargo Boats UK Limited/Marco Marine Hamble Ltd - Hamble Point Marina, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 4JD Tel: +44(0)2380 453 245 Email: info@sargoboats.co.uk or info@marcomarine.co.uk www.sargoboats.co.uk www.rheaboats.co.uk UK Limited/Marco Marine Hamble Ltd - Hamble Marina, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire, SargoSargo BoatsBoats UK Limited/Marco Marine Hamble Ltd - Hamble PointPoint Marina, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31SO31 4JD 4JD Tel: +44(0)2380 453 Email: 245 Email: info@sargoboats.co.uk or info@marcomarine.co.uk www.sargoboats.co.uk www.rheaboats.co.uk Tel: +44(0)2380 453 245 info@sargoboats.co.uk or info@marcomarine.co.uk www.sargoboats.co.uk www.rheaboats.co.uk Sargo IND_140 FINAL.indd 1

06/04/2017 10:28

NEWS

Ocean Village Marina renovation and Platinum Package As of September the renovations at Southampton’s 326-berth Ocean Village Marina were complete, and its operator, MDL Marinas, was welcoming berth holders into a new annual berthing upgrade scheme that sees a partnership with the sites new £50m luxury spa hotel complex. The Platinum Package is an annual berthing scheme that will see boat owners occupying the new ‘state of the art’ pontoons in the northwest corner of the historic basin, and making use of the five star Southampton Harbour Hotel & Spa, with its bars, restaurants, gym and spa, which includes an indoor heated swimming pool pictured, with sauna and steam room. With easy access to the hotel facilities, provision shops, restaurants and cinema, MDL hope to achieve the ‘mini-Monaco’ destination effect and attract larger boats, with plans of hosting shore-side events in this area of the marina too. The berthing package caters for boats of 14 metres and above (example price for an annual berth for a 16-metre boat priced at £13,688), with berth holders benefits such as room service and dry cleaning, discounts off hotel food, drink and spa treatments, and complimentary upgrades for room bookings. This also includes MDL’s Freedom Berthing, allowing berth holders to visit marinas in its 120-marina network. Other marina innovations at Ocean Village include a new floating dock office at the front of the hotel, with navigational guidance to berths through a large, illuminated screen. Other news from MDL include planning for a new glass-fronted boat sales building at its Hamble Point Marina site and, most recently, the marina operator has named Towergate as its insurance partner.

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October 2018

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

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Gone Fishing Club launched

A new fishing boat club has been launched that could see individuals, friends and families getting out on the water for in the region of £200 per month. Launched at the Southampton Boat Show, the ‘Gone Fishing Boat Club’ provides its members with four sessions a month aboard a fleet of red and white branded wheelhouse sportsfishers in the Solent. The club is the brainchild of husband and wife team, Nikki and James Walker, and will have three Quicksilver 555 Pilothouses based at Port Hamble Marina and Sparkes Marina, Hayling Island. A ‘week day angler’ plan provides all year membership for £149 a month and an ‘anytime angler’ plan is £199 per month, with summer and winter only plans available at £269 (May-Oct) and £129 (Nov-Apr) per month respectively. There is a £250 joining fee and users require a minimum of an RYA Powerboat Level 2, which is offered as part of an induction, if necessary. With a third arriving soon, the club will be hosting an Open Day at MDL Sparkes Marina, Hayling Island on Saturday 6th October 10:30-2pm.

Scotland’s Boat Show PREVIEW Kip Marina in Scotland is preparing to host the annual Scotland’s Boat Show. Now in its 33rd year, the 3-day show to be held 12th-14th of October, will have a display of new and used boats for sale, with stalls, marquees, entertainment and attractions. Show plans, event schedules, exhibitors lists and information is available via the show website. Admission is free and car parking is £5 per vehicle. Motorboat exhibitors include 360 Boat Services Ltd with the Northman range, Windermere Aquatic and used boats from DDZ Marine.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWS

Southampton Boat Show 2018 On Sunday 23rd September the 50th Southampton Boat Show, held at Mayflower Park on Southampton’s historic waterfront, drew to a close. Over the course of its 10 days, the show welcomed approximately 100,000 visitors, with marine exhibitors, both onshore in its interconnected show areas, and afloat, on a purpose-built marina hosting over 300 boats. The biggest boat on display was from pedigree British boat builder, Princess, with its new 30m motoryacht, with a baby blue-coloured hull. After a very warm and sunny first weekend, galeforce winds and rain affected the latter half

of the show, with a closure of the pontoons on one day, albeit short-lived. Despite the worst weather conditions reported in years, the show is being hailed a success.

The show was opened by yachting legend, Sir Robin Knox Johnston and TV wildlife presenter, Miranda Krestovnikoff, cutting the obligatory ribbon aboard the tall ship and show star, Kaskelot.

Meanwhile, the Sunseeker stand was opened by the lead singer of 1980’s band, Duran Duran, Simon Le Bon, who spoke of his involvement in Sunseekerchampioned environmental charity, The Blue Marine Foundation (BLUE). The

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October 2018

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

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

environmental theme seemed to echo throughout the show this year, with one exhibitor displaying marine mammal creations made from discarded plastics, the show sponsor, TheYachtMarket.com, announcing its Ocean Saviour project and also the show organisers, British Marine, and several exhibitors pledging a ‘say no to plastic’ rule in many areas of the show.

There were a few new show features this year, including a Harbourside Gin Festival, allowing visitors to sample an array of gins from nine local and nautical-themed companies, within a feature garden. There were also cooking demonstrations by TV chefs, ‘The Hairy Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

Bikers’, and visitors were discovering the oceanographic, Science of the Sea exhibit, and enjoying live music and nautical talks on the Heart Stage at the ‘Timbers’ and the Guinness Tent. A Mermaid in her bubble was ‘floating’ around the show, delighting youngsters by dispensing bubbles, with the RNLI’s mascot, Stormy Stan, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles also making appearances during the show. Visitors were getting afloat, out on Southampton Water, with the Try-A-Boat feature and the regular-running passenger tour boat, Ocean Scene.

Next years show, it’s 51st year, will be held 13th-22nd September 2019.

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1975

SPECIAL FEATURE

50th Anniversary

Southampton Boat Show

A launchpad for boating legends, ground-breaking technology and global marine brands, this year the Southampton Boat Show celebrated its 50th anniversary. British Marine retraces the history of the UK’s biggest boat show

1969

1969 ‘The birth of a boat show’ Norman Kemish and Arthur Gale launched the first Southampton Boat Show which ran for just six days, from 29th September4th October. The early boat show was a far more modest affair than today’s event, solely contained within Mayflower Park and the army, based on the other side of the river at Marchwood Military

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Port, supplying the small pontoon where just a handful of boats were moored.

Commenting on the Show at the time, Yachts and Yachting said “The first Southampton Boat Show may have lacked quantity but quality was as good as any to be found anywhere in the world and, with what is responsibly claimed to be over 60 percent of the British pleasure boat trade situated within a 25-mile radius of the town, the Southampton Show stands every chance of becoming a popular annual event.” Although the founders were confident they had a success on their hands, little did they imagine the event would grow into a marine magnet for the international boating industry, drawing exhibitors and crowds from around the world. At the first show there was roughly 50 exhibitors, compared to 500 plus today.

1986 1983 The show was sold to British Marine (then known as the Ship and Boat Builders’ National Federation) becoming the official sister show to the London International Boat Show. The running of the event still remained with the original organisers, J. E. Artman & Partners.

1986 Richard Branson displayed his Virgin Atlantic Challenger at the Show, fresh from an unsuccessful transatlantic 1970 The first of a long line of celebrity crossing, whilst Virgin Atlantic presented openers, BAFTA TV award winning actor a fashion show in the Virgin Atlantic Hall. and star of ‘Till Death Us Do Part’, Warren Other guest appearances included stars of Mitchell, opened the 1970 Boat Show and the popular sailing soap, Howard’s Way. was paid £200 for the honour.

1988 Show founders, Arthur and 1980 By the time the show reached the Norman, handed over the reins of 1980s early hovercrafts, water-bikes and running the event to British Marine (then concept hydrofoils were amongst the known as the British Marine Industries weird but wonderful inventions often Federation) and the event underwent a given their first showing at the event. dramatic expansion on the water with 254 But it was a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s boats showcased afloat.

Golden Hind which was the show’s star 1988 attraction on the 400th anniversary of his circumnavigation of the world.

1981 Best remembered as the year galeforce winds ripped through the show on its final day, winds of up to 55mph turned the last hours of the event into a shipwreck as Ocean Hall was flattened.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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1988 1992 This year saw Britain pulling out of the European Exchange Rate (ERM) and the resulting Black Wednesday (16 September), which cost the economy an estimated £3.3billion.

1993 The show celebrated its 25th anniversary with an impressive guest list of VIP visitors that included HRH the Princess Royal and the then king of Formula One, Nigel Mansell. One of the head-turning attractions was a 20-metre Jongert with a price tag of £1million, the same cost of staging the show at the time.

1993

1997 The event was debated by Parliament which granted permission for an extra nautical day of pleasure and the Show was extended from nine to ten days.

1998 Romance was in the air when Wendy and Richard Keeble from Kingston, who met and courted on the waves, tied the knot at the boat show. Their wedding present to each other was a Beneteau Oceanis 411 which they bought at the event.

2004 The show welcomed its first celebrity chef, Ross Burden, who curated the menu for the event’s waterfront restaurant, the Mariner’s Grill. Since then, the Show has worked with Anthony Worrall-Thompson, Jean-Christophe Novelli and James Martin and this year has lined up the nation’s most loved culinary duo, Si King and Dave Myers (aka The Hairy Bikers).

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Show witnessed the Royal Marines attempting a 24 hour underwater cycle of 240 miles. The equivalent of cycling from Southampton to Paris.

2017 The show introduced its first ever passenger boat giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a free boat trip on the Solent, taking in the impressive view of the Show from a new perspective. In total, the organisers got a record 15,000 people on the water throughout the 10 days.

2014 2005 The event featured a makeshift beach, with tonnes of sand being imported.

2006 The show turned ‘pirate’ with the introduction of its very own Treasure Island and it was ‘ooh arr me hearties’ all day long as the event supported International Talk Like a Pirate Day

...... and another special 50th birthday

2012 As well as welcoming a successful sailing Team GB, fresh from the 2012 London Olympics and Paralympics, the

2006

Our 6th show: Southampton Boat Show 2018 marks the 5th birthday of Motorboat Owner magazine, launched at the show on Friday 13th September 2013, and sees Editor, Neale turning 50.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWBOATS We trawled the aisles and pontoons to find you the latest in boats, gear and technology. We’ll start with some of the best new boats at the show

Fairline Targa 43 Open

The new 43 from Fairline is the entry level boat in the Targa range. Offering two cabins, a full width midships and a bow cabin, the 43 can be configured so that either is the master.

Despite the boat’s height it retains a sleek look, with the added benefit of outstanding

PRICE FROM

£608,280

headroom in the midships cabin. Power is supplied by twin IPS600, using two 435hp Volvo Penta D6 engines that deliver a top speed of around 32 knots.

The cockpit is protected by a retracting electric canvas roof and the large aft sunpad conceals a tender garage big enough for a Williams 280 minijet RIB. LOA: 13.9m Beam: 4.32m Displacement: 12,500kg www.fairline.com

Capelli Tempest 600

PRICE AS

DISPLAYED

£28,995

Capelli RIBs are now being brought into the UK by Ideal Boat, who were exhibiting a large selection from the range. Starting with the 430 (£13,995) and going right up to the 10m 1000WA (£139,995), there is sure to be a Tempest that suits your requirements and budget.

The 600, with its sub £30K price tag, 115hp Yamaha and sociable bow seating area, looks to be a useful midsized package for family fun and watersports.

LOA: 5.92m Beam: 2.5m www.idealboat.com

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October 2018

SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW SPECIAL

Beneteau Swift Trawler 47

PRICE AS

DISPLAYED

£677,000

Beneteau has filled a gap between the 44 and the 50 with the new 47. Offering three cabins down below, a large spacious salon in the wheelhouse and a flybridge that is available with or without a hardtop, the 47 delivers practicality and family friendly features by the bucket load. Powerwise, the 47 comes with twin 425hp diesels driving traditional shafts with an option for joystick control for easier close quarters maneuvering.

LOA: 12.77m Beam: 4.5m Displacement: 12,685kg www.beneteau.com

Jeanneau Merry Fisher 605 Marlin

PRICE FROM

£38,958

Southampton saw the UK unveiling of a few new models from prolific French boatbuilder Jeanneau, not least the impressive 1095 Merry Fisher flagship, but it was the modest little 605 Marlin that was freshest from the production line.

The baby of the Marlin range, the 605 does come with an overnight berth, but is realistically more of a day fishing boat. The open-backed wheelshelter provides easy access from helm to cockpit, and a sliding helm console allows the boat to be driven and controlled from the cockpit, a useful feature when drift fishing or trolling.

LOA: 6.4m Beam: 2.45m Displacement: 1,027kg (ex engine) www.jeanneau.com

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWBOATS PRICE AS

Beneteau Barracuda 9

DISPLAYED

£116,760

Beneteau’s Barracuda range has a new flagship in the form of the Barracuda 9.

Available with twin outboards of 115hp up to 250hp, the 9 offers four berths in the forward accommodation, a separate toilet compartment and a wheelhouse with twin side doors. It also provides an access door on the port side alongside the helm to allow single step access from helm to pontoon. For the fisherman, the large aft cockpit and open bow should deliver good up and down tide options.

LOA: 7.98m Beam: 2.95m Displacement: 4353kg www.beneteau.com

Interboat Intender 780

PRICE FROM

£47,660

Dutch boatbuilder, Interboat, has added a new model to its Intender range. The 780 delivers easy access through a central transom door and enough sociable seating for all but the largest of gatherings. The centrally-placed aft helm console ensures that the skipper is not left out when underway, and a small toilet compartment in the bow, and optional refrigerator, allows for all-day excursions. Like other boats in the range, the 780 is available with a wide variety of engine options, including a 170hp unit that should deliver decent semi-displacement cruising speeds.

LOA: 7.7m Beam: 2.8m www.valwyattmarine.co.uk

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October 2018

SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW SPECIAL

Jersey 36 Elanco

PRICE FROM

£277,000

The Jersey 36 is not a new boat as such, but is now being produced by Landamores of Wroxham who have made a few changes and tweaks to the design. The Elanco model features bespoke interior joinery and comes with a £70k premium over the Classic version of the same boat. The 36 is available in single or twin shaft drive installations and is also available with an additional electric drive system. The basic price of all models includes items usually found on the options list, such as a bow thruster and electric windlass, and being built to order also means that minor changes and customer specific modifications can often be incorporated for little or zero additional cost.

LOA: 11.35m Beam: 3.85m Displacement: 6,350kg www.jerseyboats.co.uk

Nimbus W9 & C9

We have seen the W9 before, although this was its first outing in the UK, but the C9 is fresh off the production line. Both are built on the same hull, with the W9 offering day cruiser facilities of a two-berth forward cabin with separate toilet compartment, and a galley and dinette out in the open cockpit. An optional hardtop provides extra protection against the British climate. The C9 offers s similar two-berth forward cabin with toilet, but also has a small galley down below. The helm is enclosed in a walkaround wheelhouse with seating for five and an additional occasional berth. Both models can be inboard or outboard powered with options up to 350hp. Price W9 (pictured top) from

£120,700 C9 (bottom) as displayed £153,857 LOA: 9.35m Beam: 2.95m Displacement: W9 2,970kg C9 3,170kg www.offshorepowerboats.co.uk

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWBOATS Parker Monaco 110

PRICE FROM

£226,929

The Parker is another boat that has been around for a while, but has so far eluded the British boat show audience. Having been onboard, I can safely say that it has been worth the wait. The 110 boasts two cabins, with the forward master being a particular surprise. The space that Parker has delivered here is quite something. The rest of the boat exudes the kind of quality that we have come to expect from this Polish brand, and the twin outboards of up to 350hp each are neatly tucked below the aft sunpad, which should reduce noise levels considerably.

With the big motors, the Monaco should reach 41 knots or, for a more sedate experience, twin 200’s should deliver 29 knots.

LOA: 11.3m Beam: 3.63m Displacement: 5,900kg (ex engines) www.parkerpoland.com

Quicksilver Activ 675

PRICE FROM

£44,593

The 675 is a replacement for the existing 645 in the extensive line up of boats from Quicksilver.

Offering a two-berth cuddy, the 675 is powered by a single Mercury outboard of up to 225hp, including the impressive new V6 range. With room for up to seven in the cockpit, there is also the option to flip the transom seat to form a rear facing bench. Other options include a sea toilet, fridge, electric windlass, synthetic teak flooring and canvas bimini packages.

LOA: 6.4m Beam: 2.46m Displacement: 1,234kg (ex engine) www.barrus.co.uk

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October 2018

SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW SPECIAL

Orkney Fastliner 19

PRICE EX ENG

£12,900

Built on the same hull as the existing 592, the Fastliner 19 is easily customizable to suit a wide variety of uses. The forward section is available with either a fixed GRP cuddy like the show boat, or with a foldable canvas

spray dodger. The helm can be centre or side mounted and the controls can be set up for tiller or remote operation. Powered by a single outboard of up to 80hp, the 19 delivers a top speed of around 26 knots.

LOA: 5.92m Beam: 2.26m Displacement: 670kg (ex engine) www.orkneyboats.com

Princess R35

PRICE CIRCA

£500,000

There is usually one boat at any show that everyone is talking about. At Southampton it is fair to say that it was the Princess R35.

This stunning boat is not the most practical cruiser on offer, but that is not what it is all about. The two-berth cabin lacks head height and the galley was little more than a small sink, but who wants to be below when the boat looks like this. The R35 is almost entirely built from carbon, so you get a choice of funky colours, and it comes with a pair of foils on the aft end to reduce drag, increase speed and improve handling.

Fitted with twin 430hp V8 petrol engines, the R35 is said to reach a top speed of 50 knots.www.princessyachts.com Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWBOATS PRICE FROM

Sealine F430

Add a flybridge to the C430 and you get Sealine’s new F430. Like the existing model, the boat is available in two or three-cabin versions with the master of the two-cabin model being full-width amidships. There is a large seating/lounging area in the bow and the saloon benefits from the floor to

£460,650

ceiling glass that is becoming a Sealine trademark. The flybridge is spacious and boasts the second of two outside BBQ grills, the first being on the transom. The huge bathing platform can be fitted with hydraulics for tender launching. Power is supplied by twin IPS400 as standard, with IPS500 and IPS600 available as options.

LOA: 13.55m Beam: 4.2m Displacement: 13,430kg www.sealine.com

Oki 585 DC

PRICE FROM

£30,499

Oki is a new name to these shores and, south coast Oki dealer, Sussex Boat Shop, were exhibiting two boats from the three-boat range. The 585DC is a compact cuddy cabin sportsboat with two berths and a simple, uncomplicated cockpit. Power is supplied by a single Suzuki outboard of between 90hp and 150hp and the price includes a UK spec roller trailer. The other boats in the range are a 5.4m open boat and a 6.8m walkaround.

LOA: 5.8m Beam: 2.5m Displacement: 690kg (ex engine) www.boatshopgroup.co.uk

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October 2018

SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW SPECIAL

Cranchi Z35

PRICE FROM

£274,557

The Z35 is a good-old-fashioned wind in your hair mid 30 foot sportscruiser. It comes with a spacious two cabin, one toilet layout and bucket loads of Italian design flair. You also get a galley down below and a wet barcum-second galley up in the cockpit. In boat show land, with its abundance of blingy GRP, it would be easy to miss a gem like the Z35, but if you are in the market for a 11-ish metre open sportscruiser, this boat should be right at the top of your list. The model on display was powered by the standard engine option of a pair of 260hp Volvo D4 diesels, which promises to deliver a top speed of around 34 knots.

LOA: 11.7m Beam: 3.53m Displacement: 7,250kg www.tingdeneboatsales.net PRICE FROM

Viking 300

£89,950

The 300 is a replacement for the old 295 and comes with some nice new features. The cabin now boasts a new layout with new in-hull windows and increased glazed area. The mid berth also has a new window and the interior layout can incorporate a separate forward cabin, if required.

Externally, the 300 gets an integrated bathing platform with moulded steps for improved side access. Power options are a 40hp to 60hp outboard, or an inboard 43hp Vetus diesel with shaftdrive.

LOA: 9.35m Beam: 3.2m Air Draft 2.1m www.tingdeneboatsales.net Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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NEWBOATS Bargain of the show Despite perceptions, there are usually lots of very affordable boats amongst the acres of GRP at Southampton. The boat that caught our eye this year is far from new to the market. It has, in fact, been around in one form or another since the mid eighties £15,995 when Sealine launched it as the Friski. The Quayline 16 on display offers simple two-berth cruising and comes with a trailer and a 60hp Evinrude E-Tec outboard for the grand sum of £15,995 or, to put it another way, you get the whole package, and get on the water, for around the same price as a typical 150-200hp outboard. www.quaylineboats.co.uk

When my numbers come up £578,838

Normally I would fill this section with something ludicrously extravagant and stupidly expensive. If I was to do the same this year, you would almost certainly be looking at pictures of the Princess 30M right now. Unfortunately, the £9m +VAT asking price is some way off the average lottery jackpot, so I searched for something a little more modest. In doing so, I came across the Galeon 460 Fly. It may have a relatively meager price tag, in fact it is more affordable than some of the other boats we have featured in our roundup, but with my sensible head on this means that I can have features such as the clever fold-down gunwale sections, that deliver a beach club style setting, with over-the-water bar, and surprising, spacious three-cabin interior, while still leaving a sizeable lump of cash for wine, women and song. www.galeonyachts.co.uk 30

October 2018

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CUTTING

EDGE

Eberspächer Airtronic

Eberspächer has launched a new range of Airtronic diesel heaters. The S2 D2L and M2 D4L look very similar to the old D2 and D4 heaters but have some new features and benefits. As well as being lighter than the previous models, the new heaters also use brushless motors to deliver quieter and smoother operation. The lack of brushes also increases service life to 5000 hours. The new heaters also come with a redesigned fuel pump that is also said to offer improved noise levels. Price from £1,839 www.eberspacher.com

Sleek Clean Care

Environmentally friendly cleaning products are not necessarily new, but Sleek is a range that has been developed from the ground up to be as green as possible. The UK manufactured range includes products for most common boat cleaning tasks and are biodegradable, phosphate free, PH balanced and animal testing free. The company are also doing their bit to reduce plastic use by offering refill packages that reduces plastic use by 80%. The range is said to work as well, or better, than cleaners using harsh chemicals by using bio enzymes and naturally occurring substances.

Price from £8.99 sleekcleancare.co.uk

Shock WBV

High end RIB and sportsboats wouldn’t be seen without a decent shock absorbing seat, and now you can have one on your boat for a pretty modest outlay. Designed for retrofitting to standard seat bases or pedestals, the range from Shock-WBV are adjustable for passenger weight and sea conditions.

Made in the UK from aircraft grade aluminium and 316 stainless steel, the three different model types come with a choice of three shock absorber options from the entry level spring shock to the top-of-the-range FOX Float EVOL shock. Price from £675 www.sea-sure.co.uk

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October 2018

SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW SPECIAL

Standard Horizon HX40E

If you need a compact hand held VHF to carry in your pocket, the new Standard Horizon HX40E should fit the bill. The radio has all of the usual functions found in other hand held VHFs, including full 6w transmit power, ATIS functionality and fully waterproof rating, in a package that is just 95mm tall, 52mm wide and 33mm deep, and weighs just 230g. The only concession required to make the radio so compact is that it doesn’t float. This, however, is easily overcome by adding an optional flotation case, if needed.

Price £159.95 www.standardhorizon.co.uk

Dockmate

Dockmate is a new wireless remote control for your boat’s engines, thrusters, anchor winch and even horn. Available in models with or without joystick, the Dockmate works with electronically controlled engines, including IPS, and can also control the ‘hold in position’ system often included on joystick controlled boats. Designed for use on single or twin engined boats, the wireless control is also charged wirelessly, and the systems are built to order depending upon boat configuration and customer requirements.

Price from £3,000 www.allboatservices.co.uk

Clean To Gleam

When a company has been involved in keeping boats spotless for over twenty years, you just have to take note when they launch their own range of boat cleaning products.

Being disappointed with what was on the market, CLEANTOGLEAM has done just that.

The range consists of a boat wash, GRP polish, a hard wax and some specialist products for items such as RIBs, glass and interiors. They have also backed these products up with a range of three different sponges, each perfectly designed for specific cleaning duties. Price £7.00-£29.99 www.cleantogleam.com

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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Talamex

Talamex is a Dutch chandlery range that is now distributed in the UK through E P Barrus Ltd. While there was a wide selection from the range available at Southampton, it was the new dinghy ranges that caught our eye. Available in entry level Aqualine, mid level Comfortline, premium Highline, fisherman friendly Greenline and lightweight, aluminium hulled Silverline, there are no fewer than 37 models and configurations to choose from, ranging from 1.6m up to 3.5m, so there is surely a model to suit everyone’s needs. Price from £438 www.talamexinflatables.com

Garmin Panoptix LiveScope

Garmin’s Panoptix LiveScope is a scanning sonar that delivers high resolution moving images of what’s going on below your boat.

Able to deliver forward, backwards and sideways views, LiveScope is said to offer real time images that are so clear and well defined that it is even possible to distinguish between fish species. Panoptix LiveScope works on various Garmin ECHOMAP Plus and GPSMAP multi-function displays. Click here for a video of LiveScope in action. Price £1,769.99 www.garmin.com

Mercury V6 FourStroke

The new V6 FourStroke range from Mercury were getting their first UK viewing at the show. Consisting of three 3.4 litre models of 175hp, 200hp and 225hp, the outboards sport a sleek and angular styling and promise to deliver better acceleration and improved fuel economy in a package that is lighter (215kg), quieter and smoother than ever. The new range comes in a choice of white or black and has a clever feature that allows basic engine checks to be carried out through a small hatch on top of the motor, which saves removing the large cowling.

Price £TBA www.barrus.co.uk

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October 2018

SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW SPECIAL

Selva DF2.5 Guppy

The portable outboard market has just got a new contender. Italian manufacturer, Selva, has introduced a new 2.5hp motor that weighs just 13.5kg, matching the existing lightest in class 2.5 from Suzuki. The DF2.5 Guppy uses an 87cc single cylinder engine and comes with forward and neutral gears, a built-in 0.9-litre fuel tank, CDI digital ignition and electronic engine timing. As with the rest of the range, the Guppy comes with a five-year warranty for leisure use. Price £669.00 www.selvamarine.co.uk

Honda V6

Mercury were not the only ones at the show with a new V6 outboard range. Honda were also exhibiting a four model range of V6 motors from 175hp up to 250hp.

The new Hondas benefit from drive by wire electronic controls, a new sleeker appearance and a streamlined maintenance regime. The 175, 200, 225 and 250hp outboards use the existing 3.6-litre engine found in the previous BF250, but with changes to the intake system to improve air flow. Price £TBA www.honda.co.uk

Mercury 3-litre

While outboards may be all the rage these days, there are still some interesting developments in the inboard market. Mercury launched a new 270hp 3-litre diesel suitable for sterndrive, onboard or jet drive systems.

The engine uses common rail direct injection and a water-cooled variable geometry turbo (VGT) delivers reduced turbo lag and improved acceleration. The new engine is compatible with Mercury Smartcraft technologies as well as their joystick controls for both sterndrive and inboards. Mercury has also made ownership easier by installing all user service points on top and up front. Price £TBA www.barrus.co.uk Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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Vetus VF4 F-Line

Vetus also launched a new compact and powerful diesel range in the shape of their new four cylinder VF4 F-Line series. Available in 140, 170 and 190hp outputs, the 2.0 litre engine uses a completely new block, direct injection common rail fuel system and a variable geometry turbocharger. Weighing in at just 265kg, the engines can be mated to sterndrive or shaft drive systems and look to be a great re-engine option.

Price from ÂŁ15,120 www.vetus.co.uk

w e NBio Cleaner & Surface Protector Bio MADE IN UK

Laundry Additive plus Protector AGlaze launches it’s new Bio range this November with the unveiling of two revolutionary products.

Bio Glaze is a protector and sealant for any non porous surfaces which gives long lasting antimicrobial protection, killing 99.9% of all germs as well as making cleaning far easier.

Perfect for bathrooms, showers, galleys and food service areas onboard.

Laundry additive plus protector is, as it states, added to your onboard laundry to give unrivalled cleanliness and antimicrobial characteristics. Perfect for damp environments and fabrics left for long periods of time onboard.

10% WEBSHOP DISCOUNT TO MOTORBOAT OWNER SUBSCRIBERS USE DISCOUNT CODE MBO10

Reader Survey

WIN a 2.5hp outboard

CLICK HERE to complete the survey for your chance to win a Mariner Four Stroke 2.5hp outboard

Motorboat Owner Affordable practical boating

TERMS & CONDITIONS

This competition is open to UK residents aged 18 and over, except employees, and their families, of Digital Marine Media Ltd and E.P. Barrus Ltd. The prize is a Mariner 2.5hp four stroke outboard engine. The prize is not transferable and there is no cash alternative available.

The closing date is the 31st of October at 12:00 GMT. The winner will be contacted by email within four weeks of the closing date. Only one entry per registered reader is allowed. Multiple entries will result in disqualification. No responsibility can be accepted for entries lost or corrupted due to technological problems. In the event of the prize being unavailable, the promoter reserves the right to offer an equivalent of equal value. The winner agrees to the disclosure of their name, photograph and town/county of residence for publicity purposes.

These details will be published in the January 2019 issue of Motorboat Owner.

The winner’s details will also be passed on to E.P. Barrus Ltd. The winner will be drawn at random from all entries received by the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted, are unable to comply with the terms and conditions, fail to meet the eligibility criteria, or fail to provide an address for delivery, the prize will be forfeited and the Promoter reserves the right to offer the prize to the next randomly drawn eligible entrant received before the closing date. The Promoter’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. These terms and conditions are governed by English law and are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts. The prize is provided by E.P. Barrus Ltd. The Promoter is Digital Marine Media Limited, Suite 6 Philpot House, Station Road, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7HH.

INBOX

@

Magazine subscription

I was given a leaflet at the Southampton Boat Show for your online magazine by one of your lady colleagues. At these shows you are given loads of leaflets, cards etc, often many will be discarded. On this occasion I thought I would have a look and sign up/register, and the reason for this note is to say how impressed I am with the content, as it is aimed directly at motorboat owners. There is also access to the back issues so I am going to have plenty of reading over the forthcoming months. I stopped buying paper magazines some time ago as the content drifted towards sailing or boats that the majority can only dream of and totally out of reach for most of us, your magazine does appear to be aimed at everyday boaters like myself who owns a Merry Fisher. Well done. Derek Robinson Editor replies: Thank you so much for taking the time to write in and for your feedback, and please do fill in our reader survey for your chance to win a Mariner outboard, courtesy of E.P Barrus Ltd. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our Sub and Production Editors, Pam and John, for their tireless work on the stand, we could not do it without you. Welcome aboard Derek and all of our other new sign ups from the Southampton Boat Show.

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October 2018

email:

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

BACK

IN

TIME

Princess heritage. Original 1960s Marine Projects brochure for the Project 31

PWC feature

I’d like to say what great reading the magazine is. I look forward to the notification email of the new issue every month. We owned, until recently, a 28-foot bowrider with twin V8 5.7 engines. It was a fabulous boat but running costs were very high. Having sold this we have bought a PWC. The model we purchased is a Seadoo GTX 300 LTD. A 300hp supercharged ‘rocket ship’ designed for fast cruising and has enabled us to launch from different slips by trailer and visit new places as we can cover large distances quickly and cheaply. We have never smiled, laughed and had such fun from boating.

Would you entertain the idea of occasionally doing an article on PWCs, and try to raise the sensible rider profile as many boaters are anti because of the few irresponsible riders. It is a new angle on motor boating. Roger Watts Editor replies: PWC ownership is a rapidly growing area of our industry and is a great entry point into boat ownership. We have taken your points onboard and are planning to do something along those lines. Watch this space.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Cruising overseas

I

f your forthcoming cruising plans, maybe even for next year, include a first foray across open waters to another country, it would be understandable if you had many questions, What sort of paperwork do I need? Do I have to register my passage? Are there any customs formalities? Do I have to comply with another countries rules regarding training and equipment levels? Do I have to radio up the harbour/marina in their language?

For a newcomer to overseas boating, these questions, and others like them, can be enough to keep them firmly stuck to UK shores. In truth, while all these questions

are relevant, the answers are usually quite straightforward, and not too onerous to comply with. Get you head around them, and a whole fascinating new world of boating culture awaits. For the purposes of this feature we will be looking at cruising from UK shores to our closest neighbours. If you are planning to venture further afield, or maybe have your boat trucked overseas, there may well be different rules, regulations and considerations to take into account. Read on for everything you need to know about visiting France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Ireland and the Channel Islands.

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October 2018

Documentation The first, and most important aspect to get to grips

with is documentation. Despite the compulsory nature of many of these documents, the likelihood of having to show them is quite small. Having said that, don’t be tempted to risk leaving without them because if you are asked, not having them may lead to a world of hassle.

Passport COMPULSORY Travelling outside of the UK means you and everyone onboard should carry a valid passport. While this may not be strictly necessary for the Channel Islands and Ireland, it is always possible that you may need to prove your ID to an official and your passport is as good as anything. If you are planning to travel to the Channel Islands, there is also the possibility that you may end up, by design or otherwise, in France, where a passport will be required.

Boat registration certificate COMPULSORY If you are leaving UK waters, it is imperative that you have some form of registration certificate for your boat. Part 1 registration is fine, but for those of us without this there is the part 3 certificate, otherwise known as the Small Ships Register or SSR. This is easily obtained for any vessel under 24 metres, owned by an individual who is ordinarily resident in the UK. It costs £25 and lasts for five years. You must ensure that the registration number allocated is attached to the boat, usually on the transom, in figures of the correct size (30mm high x 20mm wide). The application process takes about three weeks, and then, once received, you will need to order your stick-on numbers for the boat, so if you don’t already have an SSR, ensure you apply at least a month before your planned trip. Failure to carry an original registration certificate can lead to an on-the-spot fine as well as extra scrutiny from the local customs team.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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Boat insurance paperwork COMPULSORY

Carrying you boat’s insurance paperwork is as important overseas as it is in the UK. In the event of an incident, you will want to have quick and easy access to it. A paper or electronic copy should be fine, if you didn’t want to carry the original. You may also be asked for details of your insurance in some marinas or harbours, so having it with you makes the process of booking in much easier.

VHF paperwork COMPULSORY You should carry your boat’s VHF licence and your own operator’s certificate. The boat’s licence is free and available online from Ofcom.

For the operator’s certificate you will need to undertake a short, usually one-day, course at an approved training centre (find your nearest HERE) at a cost of around £50. If you are going to be venturing inland once you reach the continent (excluding Ireland), there is one further thing to consider. When using a VHF radio inland, it should be ATIS (Automatic Transmitter Identification System) enabled. This requires a variation to your boat’s VHF licence to issue an ATIS number. This should then be entered into the radio and the ATIS functionality switched on. On some radios this is easily done by the user, but on many older radios this would need dealer programming. In these cases it may simply be easier to upgrade your radio to a new one, or add a second VHF set that is user switchable for ATIS. This second set could be a handheld. Although the regulations state that all VHFs onboard should be ATIS enabled, if you were to disconnect your non-ATIS radio and only use the second set while in ATIS waters this should be acceptable. You are also required to carry a copy of the Regional Arrangement on the Radiocommunication Service for Inland Waterways (RAINWAT), which can be downloaded from HERE. 42

October 2018

Certificates of Competency COMPULSORY INLAND RECOMMENDED ON THE COAST

While most EU countries insist on their nationals having passed a minimum level of competency to use a boat in their waters, the UK has no such rule.

In most cases, a visit to the coastal waters of our near neighbours does not require any certificate of competency as you would be flying under the UK flag and subject to UK rules. If, however, you wish to venture inland in these countries, you will need to carry proof of competency in the inland waterways regulations. For us, this means gaining your CEVNI (Code Européen des Voies de Navigation Intérieure) qualification. For UK boaters this is attached to an ICC (International Certificate of Competence). The ICC is gained by taking a simple practical test, or by completing a Day Skipper practical course or, for boats under 10m, a Powerboat Level 2 course. The CEVNI is then a short multiple-choice paper based on the rules of the road for inland waterways. If you require a CEVNI for the waters you are planning to visit, you must also carry a copy of the regulations, such as the RYA publication E-G17, onboard. While an ICC is not generally required for coastal waters, if you already have a powerboat level 2 or Dayskipper practical certificate it is worth applying for one and carrying it anyway. The ICC is available from the RYA, is valid for five years and is free for members. For non-members, the cost is £45

VAT paperwork RECOMMENDED

The requirement to prove that VAT has been paid on your vessel is an interesting one. Some will say that it is vital, others that it is not required. In truth, I have never been asked to prove the VAT status of any vessel I have taken overseas, including new and old boats and boats of high and low value, but I accept that under certain circumstances, the question may be asked. If you have the original VAT invoice from when your boat was new, it is worth carrying, just in case. If you don’t, I wouldn’t worry about it. Your registration certificate should assure whoever is looking that the boat is UK based and therefore not subject to import and a possible VAT liability. As a backup, you could take the bill of sale from when you bought the boat, which should prove that the sale was between two private individuals within the EU and therefore not a transaction subject to VAT. In reality, the question is most likely to arise, if at all, with a shiny new boat. In this case you should certainly take care of your original VAT invoice and carry it onboard. With older boats, VAT records are hard to come by. Invoices are lost, Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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PRACTICAL

records destroyed after seven years and there is often simply no way of proving VAT was ever paid. In fact even an original VAT invoice is not rock solid proof, for reasons that will take too long to go into here. In short, if you have it, carry it, if you don’t, don’t worry. Of course, with BREXIT looming, things may change but we will keep you abreast of any requirements as we hear about them.

Flags COMPULSORY AND RECOMMENDED

As you will be registered on one of the British Ship Registers, you should always wear your red ensign, (or blue or white if entitled), when entering and departing a foreign port.

It is recommended that ensigns be worn at all times during daylight hours. You should also, out of politeness, fly a courtesy flag of the country you are visiting. This should be hoist higher than the ensign and on the starboard side. The only other flag you may need is the yellow ‘Q’ signal, which we will look at later.

Equipment RECOMMENDED Some countries demand that boats belonging to their nationals are equipped to certain levels, depending upon the area they are being used. In the UK we do not have rules of this nature, but when visiting other countries there is often a perception that we should adhere to their rules. In truth, while this may be the case, it is seldom enforced, but sometimes it pays to take their rules into consideration, as they are often sensible and beneficial. An example is the subject of out of date pyrotechnics. These are not allowed in French registered boats but are often carried as backups on UK vessels. It may be prudent to only have in-date pyrotechnics when visiting France, just in case. It is quite difficult to find out what rules may or may not be applied to a UK registered vessel in coastal waters of another EU country, so the best course of action is to ensure all your safety equipment is serviced and in date, which if you are heading across open water is no bad thing. Another rule that would be sensible to follow is from Ireland, where anyone under 16, and anyone in a boat under 7m in length (including tenders), should wear a lifejacket or PFD at all times.

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October 2018

Marked Diesel FOR INFORMATION

Since 2008 the use of marked diesel in leisure vessels has been banned across the EU, although the UK still allows it under special rules. Unfortunately, these rules are not always accepted overseas and there have been cases, almost exclusively in Belgium, of UK boaters being fined for having marked diesel in their tanks.

The situation currently is that for the time being, UK boaters will be allowed to have marked diesel in their tanks without fear of prosecution. This situation is subject to change, so it will pay to try and keep up with any news on the subject. Of course, there may also be changes come BREXIT, which we will update you on as we hear about it. Marked diesel is unlikely to be a problem for UK registered boats visiting Ireland, where they themselves still use it in leisure boats. The French have also always been quite pragmatic about it, as have the Dutch. While Belgium has agreed to allow the use of marked diesel in UK registered leisure boats for now, this is still the country that poses the greatest risk of a fine. The best advice is to pay full duty on your last fill up in the UK before heading overseas, and keep the receipt, that should be marked as full duty paid, with you. You should also never carry marked diesel in cans, only in your boat’s fuel tank. The RYA has also produced a letter, printed in English, French, German and Dutch, that outlines the situation with the UK and marked diesel. It is a little dated now, but may still be worth printing and carrying onboard. The letter can be found HERE.

Customs formalities COMPULSORY

Boats and crews travelling between EU countries do not usually require any customs formalities either when leaving the UK, arriving overseas, or coming back into the UK. There is just the small matter of the Schengen agreement, of which the UK is not a part. Under Schengen, free movement of people is guaranteed between internal borders. As the UK is outside of Schengen, British boaters should complete some paperwork when arriving into the Schengen area. While France is within the Schengen area, they have always taken a relaxed view to visiting UK boaters. The same does Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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You may be boarded at any time, so make sure you have paperwork and customs formalites in order

not always apply elsewhere, and both Belgium and the Netherlands have, in the past, required Schengen paperwork to be completed upon arrival. The best bet is to ask in the harbour/marina office on arrival in these two countries for a Schengen form.

They may either give you one, and tell you where to file it when completed, or look at you blankly. If you want to be ahead of the game, download and complete a generic Schengen form that can be easily found online before you depart. Alternatively, the RYA has downloadable Dutch and Belgium Schengen forms on their website HERE. A harbour master not having a form, does not necessarily mean that you won’t find yourself in trouble later on for not having completed the formality.

The Channel Islands are outside of the EU and therefore do require some customs paperwork. If you are leaving the UK direct for the Channel Islands, you should inform UK customs by completing part 1 of form C1331 and filing it with them before departure. If coming back into the UK directly from the Channel Islands, you should complete and follow the guidelines on part 2 of form C1331. When arriving in the Channel Islands, you may be given a customs form by the harbour staff to complete and post in the customs boxes at the top of the marina ramp.

We mentioned in the Flags section earlier about the yellow Q flag. This should be flown when clearing into countries that require customs clearance and should not be taken down until such time as that clearance has been given. In reality, this means flying it when arriving in the Channel Islands, and again when arriving back into the UK directly from the Channel islands, or anywhere else outside of the EU. In reality, it is rare to see anyone follow this A Q flag should be flown when procedure, but this is the official requirement. clearing customs

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October 2018

Pets onboard The pet passport

scheme does give some flexibility to take pets overseas on your boat. In reality, the requirements are still so onerous, including not being able to bring them back into the UK on your own boat, that it makes more sense to leave them at home. For full details of taking your pet overseas on your boat, see our pet passports feature in the August 2014 issue of Motorboat Owner, available in the back issues section of our website.

Arrival procedure and language Arrival in a foreign port is really no different from arriving at a UK destination.

The correct VHF channel to call up will be marked in the Almanac or pilot book and, fortunately, the international maritime language is English, so you should normally be easily understood. If you are able to speak the local language, I am sure that the person receiving it would be very happy to communicate in their mother tongue. Don’t be particularly surprised if you don’t get an answer on the radio. Many marinas on the continent are happy for you to just berth up and head up to the marina office. Try the radio first, and if you can’t raise them, head for the fuel berth or visitor area, which is usually well marked. Do always have a thorough read of the almanac and/or pilot book before entering, just to ensure you follow any rules and regulations, particularly regarding speed limits and prohibited zones. Go slowly, take your time and enjoy the experience. It may seem daunting at first, but almost without exception, the marinas and staff are welcoming and accommodating.

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PRACTICAL

While reading through this feature may lead you to think that overseas cruising is full of hassle and paperwork, the reality couldn’t be more different. I have lost count of the number of trips I have taken by boat to our near EU and non EU neighbours, but I suspect its well over 100, and I can count on one hand the number of times I have been boarded or inspected by local officials. It does happen, but it is very rare and

when it does the officials are efficient and polite and always happy to see that I have complied with the requirements mentioned above. The majority of the trips I have simply arrived, tied and enjoyed the local area in almost exactly the same way I would if arriving in a new UK port. So the moral of this is to not let anything written here put you off, but be prepared. Once you have had that first fresh Croissant in your cockpit you will wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. MBO

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October 2018

Mike Thomas A life in boats

Thames boater, Mike Thomas, has owned sixteen boats over thirty three years. Now with current boat, a Haines 32 OS, he recounts his life in boats and joshes “who’s counting?”

T

here seems to be two camps, those that keep their boat for years and those that don’t. It would appear that I fall into the latter. The trouble is, there are so many lovely boats around, it seems a shame not to try as many as

possible. Old or new, fast or slow, I am very broad minded. Fourteen plus two and counting. The two relates to a pair of traditional open launches that I purchased whilst I was Treasurer of the Thames Traditional Boat Rally (now Festival).

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October 2018

Some would say that I am the brokers’ dream, but actually, in the early years at least, all my boats made a profit, well, excluding the cost of refurbishments.

I can blame much of my interest in boats on my parents. After a couple of family hire boat holidays on the Thames in the late 1950’s, Pop (my dad) bought his first boat. Sadly Le Mistral only lasted one year before Pop was smitten by the lines of La Lanzadera, a beautiful 33ft Bates Starcraft. They kept that boat until the mid 1970s. I was totally hooked and devastated Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

MY BOAT

“There are so many lovely boats around, it seems a shame not to try as many as possible”

when my parents eventually sold the boat to do other things. At that time my finances were insufficient to support our own boat, so that could have been the end of my boat owning story. But, with family connections to the old Maidboats Thames hire fleet, in 1980 I was able to purchase three ex-hire boats, which were scheduled for disposal. This included an Elysian 27 Centre Cockpit. With a bit of elbow grease and a new coat of paint on the hulls, they were sold at sufficient profit to buy my first private motor cruiser.

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Mad Hatter IV, was an aged Freeman 30 with a pair of monster V8 petrol engines.

Fortunately, in that era, fuel was relatively cheap, but still a bit eye watering, although the noise from four exhaust pipes in the transom was music to a petrol head’s ears. Interestingly, the boat had been the property of a former Commodore of Upper Thames Motor Yacht Club (UTMYC) and named Decorum. Not much decorum about the noise. UTMYC happens to be a club we, myself and wife Sally, joined and owe much of our boating pleasure. What a lovely, friendly bunch.

There followed I J Bonaventure, almost the other end of the scale. A very practical Seamaster 8 metre, with two little ‘sewing machine’ diesels and a folding screen that

allowed us to acquaint ourselves with the Thames’ upper reaches from Oxford to Lechlade. This boat still is, to my mind, the best boat we have owned for sheer utilisation of every nook and cranny. It was also the one from which our son gained his interest in boats. However, the sea beckoned. After chatting with a friend, who owned a Dunkirk Little Ship, I found out about their five yearly returns to Dunkirk. I wanted to go, but not at 6 knots. Bonaventure was time expired.

“the best boat we have owned for sheer utilisation of every nook and cranny” SEAMASTER 8M

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October 2018

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

knew all about going to sea! To be on the safe side I took a friend, who had been around boats longer than I and, in 1990, we headed for Dunkirk. UTMYC had a club cruise to Dunkirk that year and we set off to catch them up. It was a brilliant trip and a fantastic weekend with the Dunkirk Little Ships, followed by an interesting return, as we got lost in mid channel, but all was well in the end.

Blissful ignorance or the foolishness of youth? Whichever you prefer. More club cruises followed including our first to Holland, but it was time to move on.

Sir Mark, re-named Shiverarn, a gently

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MY BOAT

MY BOAT

La Carousella was acquired. A Freeman 32 with two chunky Thornycroft engines and a speed capability of 15+ knots. We renamed her Shiverarn, a name that stems from a drawing of a boat, completed by our young son, long before he could spell particularly well. He wrote ‘Shiverarn’ on the drawing and we have no idea how it came to him or why, but thought it sounded quite nice. A quick visit by the engineer to check the engines and an investment in a Decca Dinghy D (onewaypoint capability, pre GPS system) and we were off. I had attended one of UTMYC’s winter navigation classes so

“.... a wonderful sea boat with few rivals. 600hp was a bit of a handful on the river so it was time to change”

and, in the company of a Birchwood 33 Classic belonging to friends and fellow boat club members, Richard and Jeannie, transported us to Holland. On this occasion, on a fortuitously calm day off the Dutch coast, the two boats could be ageing Moonraker 36 with a propensity to seen rolling happily on the edge of the North Sea with Richard topping up with use copious quantities of oil, but never a diesel and me replenishing the oil, again. clue about where it went? Owned by two brothers who kept her on the Essex coast, Neither of us were especially concerned.

Boat number eight came in 1995. she was in sound condition but needed M Y Seascape, a Fairline Turbo 36, barely TLC. Sally and I set to, scrubbing from end to end, replacing curtains, carpets and five years old, was the first boat on which I suffered depreciation. Not by current upholstery until she passed muster. The poor chap who fitted the new carpets had standards, but it came as a bit of a blow. not been told it was for a boat. A few beers Sadly it set the tone for most subsequent purchases. She was a splendid entertaining later he did a wonderful job, but did not platform during my tenure as Commodore offer to repeat the experience. This was a very spacious boat, with a good, sea kindly of UTMYC and, after a successful 50th hull but she was built to a price. It did not Anniversary ‘Source to Mouth of the pay to look too closely behind the scenes. Thames’ club event, performed the final leg from Hampton Court to Ramsgate.

Having removed the cooker we found a From Ramsgate we then proceeded nasty scorch mark on the formica lining. with the club cruise to St Malo. It was a As Neighbourhood Watch organisers, wonderful sea boat and still today has few we purloined a spare aluminium sign rivals. 600hp was a bit of a handful on the to prevent further damage. Possibly it river so it was time to change. is still there? She was very comfortable FAIRLINE TURBO 36

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October 2018

Lady Genevieve, the third Shiverarn, was our first Broom. A 33 with twin Mercruiser 180hp engines that ran as smooth as silk, she was beautifully built and in superb condition. She took a while to find, but was worth the wait. This 33 is still the only boat we have owned, over which my wife Sally, shed a tear on its replacement. It was quiet and smooth on the river and perfectly capable, if a touch underpowered, at sea. By now we had moved in part to the south coast at Southampton and spent happy summers cruising in company to the West Country,

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Northern France and the Channel Islands, with friends Richard and Jeannie aboard.

By this time we had decided to take a break from the Thames for a few years and moved permanently to Shamrock Quay, Southampton, so power was no longer an issue.

Success 11 (the fourth Shiverarn) came with just over 600hp and would cruise comfortably at 20 knots. Yes, it consumed vast quantities of fuel, but it was then only around £200 to fill the 250 gallon tanks, which seems odd in this age of £1+ a litre. After the quality of the Broom 33

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MY BOAT

MY BOAT

“This 33 is still the only boat we have owned over which my wife, Sally, shed a tear on its replacement” BROOM 33

NIMBUS 345

“The Nimbus was far better suited to life on the river with occasional jaunts to the salty stuff but seemed a little claustrophobic after the Broom” it seemed logical to stay with the marque.

After much searching of the internet, we found a 1991 Broom 37 in Holland. With a single German owner and few hours use, the chase was on. After assurances from the Dutch broker that the boat was as good as the details and photos inferred, we headed to Amsterdam, where we were met by the broker’s wife and driven to the marina. The broker spent the entire day with us, including a sea trial on the Ijselmeer, and at the end of the day she was ours. The German registration was sorted by the broker and I had her registered on the SSR. It was a thoroughly happy and professional way of doing business. This boat rated alongside the Fairline for seakeeping. We continued our South coast cruising with a bit more elbow room and very adequate reserves of power.

It was at this time that the club replaced some of their moorings to enable boats of greater beam to be accommodated at Sonning HQ. After 15 years on the mooring waiting list we were at the top and were offered a space. Of course we accepted, but this was the wrong boat for the river. 600hp and a draft of 4ft 3 inches are not ideal Thames measurements.

The fifth Shiverarn arrived by transport from Lymington to Bushnells boatyard.

We met her at Wargrave after the transport driver assured me it would fit round the corner from the main road.

He was right, but it was very close. A Nimbus 345 with a mere 460hp, on paper she was far better suited to life on the river with occasional jaunts to the salty stuff. Indeed she was, but after the vast interior space of the Broom it seemed a LAUNCH: ALIDE

“Alide was one of two launches I owned whilst I was Treasurer of the Thames Traditional Boat Rally” 56

October 2018

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FREEMAN 33

“It was one of two

built with a low screen and would take us to Lechlade” Ferets is intended. After an initial lack of enthusiasm this became the longest serving boat to date, four years. It’s funny how things work out.

With an opportunity to retire a little early, there was the possibility of fulfilling a long-held wish to spend time cruising through Europe. Inspired by a cruise by fellow UTMYC members, from the UK via Paris, the Soane and on up into Belgium and Holland, we started planning. The first thing we needed was a comfortable boat on which to spend serious time.

The Four Ferets was out and in came Amadeus-M. She was a Broom Ocean 38 from year 2000. Plenty of internal space with a beam of 13 feet, a reasonably low freeboard for bankside moorings and enough power from her twin Yanmar engines for the sea crossings, she was spot on. We found her in Southampton, although most of her life had been spent

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MY BOAT

MY BOAT

little claustrophobic inside to me. The dark blue hull looked wonderful, but was hard work to maintain to our standards.

I am afraid after little more than a season she was on the market. The sale to a delightful Hungarian gentleman included a very large jar of Hungarian Paprika and several large Salami Sausages. We were assured that both were far superior to the same items from other countries. I was then contemplating a break from boat ownership, at least for a while, but Sally said I would be like a bear with a sore head. Me, aka ‘Mr Grumpy’.

After a chance meeting at the boat club with members John and Sue, they put me in touch with a widowed neighbour of theirs who owned a Freeman 33 that had been in their family almost from new.

With little real interest I went to take a look. It was in remarkable condition and a credit to her dear departed, needing little more than a good polish and a new hood and fridge. It was one of two built with a low screen and would take us to Lechlade.

Freeman 33, The Four Ferets, became boat number 12, and yes, the spelling of

in Penarth, South Wales. The first owner had passed away before being able to enjoy much use from the boat, and the second and then current owner was elderly, with a wife who had lost interest in the boat. He was using the boat as a ‘shed’ or country cottage, rarely going out, which showed in the superficially poor state of both interior and exterior. The mechanicals and electronics were good and the engines had only done 250 hours. So it was out with the marigolds again and a scrub from stem to stern. After considerable effort, and a little cash, the inside was transformed.

The blue hull (yes, another one, although definitely the last this time) was oxidised with little shine, but I was pretty sure that it would come good as the boat was only 10 years old. It did, but boy, did it require some effort. In hindsight I probably should have paid a valet company, but hey

“Plenty of internal space and enough power for sea crossings, it was spot on” BROOM OCEAN 38

ho. In the Spring of 2012 we eventually escaped the flood waters of the Thames for our new base 25 miles east of Amsterdam.

We had a highly enjoyable year cruising North, South, East and West, all within Holland, finally leaving Amadeus-M relaxing in a centrally heated warehouse for the winter. In 2013 we enjoyed another five weeks cruising Holland, followed by a relaxed trip back across the North Sea, via Brooms at Brundall and the Suffolk and Essex coasts, returning to the Thames after the ATYC Rally in London Docklands.

I must be getting old as Amadeus-M lasted for nearly seven years, but by 2016, spending less time cruising and more time

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October 2018

MY BOAT

cleaning, I decided to change again.

The sixth Shiverarn and our current boat is a Haines 32 Offshore. Bought from Norfolk Yacht Agency at the back end of 2016, it had clocked a mere 40 hours in two years, was in nearly-new condition and beautifully fitted out.

The Nanni 270hp engine gives estuary capability and, with no upper steering helm, there is nothing to lower whilst negotiating bridges on the upper Thames.

With few internal steps and a transom door, boarding is made very easy for us and other ageing friends. I should also mention the extended bathing platform, which is ideal for Zimmer frame storage!

I make that fourteen motor cruisers, plus the two launches. When did we start? Well we joined UTMYC in 1988, but had a boat a few years prior to that, so probably 1985, or 33 years ago.

So what is next? We use the boat less than in the past and, if that trend continues, this could be the last. So my long suffering wife, Sally tells me anyway.

I think I might have just one more boat left in me. With our son and grandson both keen on RIBs, perhaps a rather nice super-quick RIB on the Solent, for the occasional dash across to Cowes for the evening and a nice comfortable hotel overnight, perhaps? MBO

A happy day aboard a rather lovely Riva Super Aquarama on the Italian lakes.

Next boat?....

Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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Nord Star Sport 25

By Alex Smith

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October 2018

BOAT TEST

(LOA): 7.8 m / 25ft 7in Beam: 2.7m / 8ft 10in Weight: 1,900 kg Fuel capacity: 430 litres Maximum power: 400hp Test engine: Mercury 225 Fourstroke Price from £88,500

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T

hose of us who like to go boating all year round tend to have a lot of respect for four-season pilothouse cruisers from the Nordic states. The likes of Targa, Sargo, Paragon and Nord Star generate some impressively heavyweight Category B sea boats with elevated prows, deep safe walkways and very distinctive helming experiences. Nestling into your adjustable seat behind a traditional pilothouse helm, with wide-open views of the seascape, extraordinary insulation from the elements, a bum-friendly ride and endless reserves of unruffled armchair composure, is a memorable thing, and it’s all the more so because, despite offering the keen cruiser a variety of sleeping spaces, these are boats that can turn fairly

lumpy seas into little more than recreational playgrounds. Little wonder then that, in the generation of its new line of open boats, Nord Star has sidestepped the expense, the doubt and the many pitfalls associated with creating a new boat from scratch and built a platform on the basis of its established pilothouse blueprint.

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October 2018

As a walkaround weekender, the bow is deep and practical, yet redundant as a social space

“Finnish builder, Nord Star, has created new open, walkaround sportsboats using its praised Patrol 24 hull”

Available as an Open or T-Top model and with single outboard rigs from 225 to 400hp, Nord Star has made extensive use of its existing assets in the creation of the Sport 25. It has basically taken the hull and deck moulds from the Patrol 24 pilothouse craft and replaced the elevated superstructure with a walkaround console.

That puts the helm a good way forward by the standards of most open boats but happily, despite employing the same very flat, easily navigable bow deck, it continues to offer the same double berth as the original Pilothouse model.

When you step down, through the central sliding door between the helm seats, you are greeted by a simple double bed with room beneath a hinged starboard lid for an optional toilet. Space is relatively tight and natural light is limited to a pair of narrow windows, one on either side of the console, but the overhead curve of the tinted Perspex door does much to improve the quality of the light ingress. However, while it serves well enough for the simple Ample seating, its big cockpit is deep and secure Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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overnighting demands of a ‘camping’ weekend, or for the storage of bulky day gear, it’s plain that the Sport 25’s emphasis is placed squarely on the open air spaces of the cockpit.

Just as the console is positioned a good distance forward, so the stern bench is positioned a very long way aft. In fact, it sits just ahead of the cowling’s leading edge, directly above the engine well, and the benefits of that in terms of space are extraordinary. Well over 60% of the boat’s overall length (including swim platforms and pulpit) is given over to the needs of the big, beamy cockpit, and in addition to the usual complement of twin helm seats

and full-beam aft bench, that has enabled Nord Star to incorporate a third seating section in the form of an optional twoman sofa in the centre of the deck. This unit features a reversible backrest that can be dropped into the space between the two benches, creating a sunpad without obstructing the walkways, and it also features a lift-up seat base, enabling you to increase the usability of the eight-man cockpit with a cooker and a fridge.

In a welcome nod to Nord Star’s long heritage in stoic offshore boats, security is also first-rate. The deep freeboards are topped with all-round guardrails that come up virtually to your shoulder when

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October 2018

‘The compact cuddy cabin is fine for weekends away and the storage of bulky gear’

seated, even in the aft part of the cockpit, and that same degree of security extends up the twin steps to the elevated bow deck. Here, despite a relatively flat leading edge on the forward part of the console, the bow’s narrow peripheral moulding with its raised fibreglass lip means it’s really just a place for seamanship duties, disembarkation and the odd spot of fishing. And yet in the absence of familyfriendly facilities like cushions, tables and storage compartments, it’s good to see that the bow’s lofty rails, step-through bow and unobstructed walkways help mitigate its inherent lack of versatility as a living space.

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Back down on the big main deck, it’s notable that the prioritising of cockpit capacity has had a direct impact on the design of the aft bench. In place of the continuous full-beam unit you might expect, it comprises three separate sections with a pair of walk-through gaps in the seat back to ease access to the swim platforms. And, because the bench has been positioned above the engine well, Nord Star has had to design the middle of these three sections as a hinged unit, so it can be swung forwards onto the deck, vacating the necessary space when the time comes to lift the engine clear of the water.

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PERFORMANCE RPM

600 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 5700

It’s quite a neatly arranged compromise and yet, by Nord Star’s own admission, this test boat has been hastily rigged to hit the deadline for our trial, so there is still work to be done in making everything fit together with greater ease, cleanliness and simplicity. For instance, some of the storage hatches are poorly placed, some of the deck lids, panels and seat bases creak when you put weight on them and most conspicuously of all, a hole has been cut into the central section of the bench’s backrest to enable the beak-like leading edge of the outboard’s cowling a few extra millimetres of travel so you can trim out underway. Plainly, these are all elements that will need tidying

Knots

LPH

GPH

MPG

3.2 4.2 6.1 7.7 8.8 13.2 20.1 25.4 30.1 34.3 38.7 39.7

2.4 4.3 6.6 11.6 16.1 22.3 26.1 33.0 42.1 61.1 75.3 77.9

0.63 1.14 1.74 3.06 4.25 5.89 6.89 8.72 11.12 16.14 19.89 20.58

5.08 3.68 3.51 2.52 2.07 2.24 2.92 2.91 2.71 2.13 1.95 1.93

Range (nm)

458.7 336.0 317.9 228.3 188.0 203.6 264.9 264.8 245.9 193.1 176.8 175.3

Sound levels dB

56.7 67.1 70.1 73.6 77.5 83.9 84.6 84.9 84.9 88.3 89.9 90.2

up as the design is further tweaked and the production cycle for the amended Sport 25 gets underway, but for now, the conceptual merit of this cockpit arrangement, if not its early execution, is beyond doubt.

Underway With the weight of the pilothouse gone and 216kg of outboard motor perched on the transom, it might seem reasonable

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October 2018

Despite the big transom rating, Mercury’s latest generation 225 four stroke is all most people will need. Protection behind the steep screen is first class

“With the 225hp Mercury, it’s a 40-knot boat with an impressively soft ride” to expect the Sport 25 to feel a touch flighty. But unlike its direct competitors, Nord Star has previous experience of outboard propulsion on its more compact pilothouse models and the performance of the new boat illustrates that. Both the fuel and septic tanks are integrated steel units, positioned beneath the deck at the same relatively advanced position as the helm, and underway, that translates into an easy 30-knot cruise, with a flat, soft ride, a steady wheel and throttle and no unrequested variation in line or pace. While on some boats, you have to continually tweak and correct the ride and trim with helm input, here it feels like you can just set the controls, relax and take in the view.

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The Nord Star’s passage-making ability also looks quite impressive. While an 18.3-degree deadrise might sound quite moderate, the ride feels distinctly soft; and with that big, integrated 430-litre fuel tank (which, interestingly, is larger than either the 24 or 26 Pilothouse models), a cruising speed of between 20 and 30 knots brings you a range of around 260 nautical miles, which is remarkably generous for a compact cuddy-equipped sportsboat.

At around 85 decibels, it’s also fairly refined at cruising speeds for a boat of this type but, when you push on to wideopen throttle, noise readings in excess of 90 decibels suggest that the gaps in the aft bench do tend to invite a significant amount of engine noise into the cockpit.

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And talking of the engine, it seems to me that, while the 400hp capacity of the transom taps neatly into the bizarre modern Scandinavian fondness for massive power on otherwise modest recreational day boats, a rating like this is calculated more to generate excitable publicity than to tweak the interest of any serious buyers. Certainly, this is quite a big, beamy platform weighing almost two metric tonnes but 55 knots isn’t where a sociable family platform needs to be, particularly as this base 225hp model already hits 40 knots and feels well balanced in terms of its natural trim and weight distribution. Of course, those keen on watersports, or looking to load up with family and friends, might benefit from upgrading to a lightweight 300 with a more generous prop for extra hole-shot but, for most of us, the moderate and userfriendly entertainment of the test boat is likely to prove perfectly adequate.

In short, just as the layout exhibits some outstanding high points, so the dynamic behaviour of the test boat shows glimpses of excellence, but again, there are areas that Nord Star needs to work on as production gets underway. For instance, while the helm and co-pilot’s positions are

The throttle position illustrates that there is work yet to be done

well protected behind the steep, rail-lined screen, the part of the seat bolster against which you rest your back feels very rigid in the ‘up’ position. And on a similar note, the rigging of the throttle causes you to reach way forward, beyond the wheel and up onto the distant plateau of the elevated dash top. In so doing, it eases you away from your lumber support and, in the absence of anywhere to plant the heel of your hand, it also deprives you of accuracy in your adjustment of the revs. In tandem with the prop’s tendency to aerate in even a moderate turn, that certainly detracts from the ease of the helming experience and yet, despite these shortcomings, this boat’s inherent balance and its behaviour through the chop do enough to suggest

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October 2018

that, once the early rigging flaws are tidied up, the Sport 25 ought to have what it takes to become a very capable cruising boat.

Conclusion Notwithstanding the imperfections of our hastily completed ‘No 1’ test model, the 25 is already an easy boat to like. The long range, soft ride, serviceable cuddy and huge, secure cockpit bring it very credible credentials as a companion for adventurous weekending couples, and with the T-top and the broad transom rating, it’s not difficult to add even greater flexibility to the mix. Of course Nord Star is likely to remain much more famous for its compliant offshore workhorses than its sporting

While straight line behaviour is exemplary, there is some aeration in the turn

runabouts (and at nearly £90,000, this is by no means the cheapest option in its class), but once the debut difficulties have been tweaked and modified, the Sport 25 has the potential to become one of Nord Star’s most convincing recreational packages yet.

ENQUIRIES: For your local dealer visit www.nordstar.fi

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LOA: 8.52m Beam: 3.00m Displacement: 3,370kg Enquiries: Offshore Powerboats 01590 677955 www.offshorepowerboats.co.uk

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Q&A

Your Questions Answered

Flybridge for £50k

Q I suspect you get asked

similar questions to this all the time, so apologies for adding to them, but if you had £50k to spend, and wanted a shaftdrive flybridge motorboat, what would you buy?

A At this price, overall condition, especially of the mechanicals, becomes more

important than make or model. Having said that, there are some great boats to throw into the mix from the likes of Sealine, Princess and Fairline. For your budget, I would suggest you look for something around 35 to 40 feet. At this size, I am very fond of the Sealine F36/F37, but you are unlikely to find one within your price range. What you might find though, if you are lucky, put your hard bargaining hat on and maybe stretch your budget just a little, is a 350 Statesman, the forerunner of these two models. This would give you a modern looking boat, with a proper set of steps up to the flybridge, rather than the ladders usually found on boats in this price band. Having said that, if a more traditional looking craft is what you are after, I would be drawn to the Princess range. The 35 is an obvious contender, and you might even find a 388 in budget if it has a motivated seller, but I would be keeping my eye out for the rather underrated 330, which you should be able to pick up well in budget, leaving a little left over for some upgrades and modernisation, if required. I can’t, of course, leave it there. If you want the most boat for the money, and one with a reputation as good as its seakeeping, I would have to add Fairline’s Turbo 36 onto the shortlist. This delivers accommodation like nothing else in this sector and, although perhaps a little dated in appearance, is the epitome of a modern classic.

This 1989 Fairline Turbo 36, currently for sale with Tingdene Boat Sales, at £59,950, is fitted with twin Vetus diesels 70

October 2018

If you have a question, email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Project Boat: Interior or engine first?

Q I have just bought a boat that is

somewhat run down. The engine is not currently running, but I am told it just needs a service and some electrical work.

My plan is to strip the interior, refit the boat out and then think about the engine.

Considering it may be some time before I get to the mechanical components, is there anything I should be doing to the non-running engine to make sure it doesn’t degrade any further before I get to it?

A With any boat project, I would suggest always starting with the

mechanicals. There is no point in having nice furnishings if the engine is shot, as this is where nearly all of the value of the boat lies. If it turns out that the engine is beyond help, you can at least abandon the project before getting in too deep financially, or carry on knowing exactly what you are letting yourself in for. I am always wary of a non-running engine that ‘just needs a service’.

I suspect there is more to it than that, so a little time spent on it now could save a lot of heartache later. Get the engine running, then you can lay it up while you do the rest of the work. If it’s a petrol engine, laying up will consist of a minimum of ‘fogging’ the engine and draining the fuel from the carb.

Alternatively, you could run it up periodically during the refit.

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Q&A

Your Questions Answered

Compass bubble

Q The helm compass on our Princess V39

has developed a bubble. It seems to be getting very slowly larger. What’s causing this and what can I do about it?

A If you have an air bubble, it means that the fluid inside the compass must be leaking out. You may be able to confirm this by getting underneath it. In short, you either need to fix or replace it. In theory, if you can find and fix the leak, a DIY solution may be possible, although using the wrong fluid to top it up may make matters worse. Personally I wouldn’t bother, unless I was able to confirm with the manufacturer exactly what fluid is required. For a professional fix, try BPSC Marine in Southampton.

V8 core plugs

Q I am swapping a V8 engine block that suffered a crack due to either frost or corrosion with an automotive block. All of the internals and ancillaries will be swapped over, but do I need to change the core plugs. Are marine core plugs made from different material?

A It will depend on whether the engine is going to be fresh or raw-water

cooled. If fresh water cooled with antifreeze, then in reality it is no different to being in a car, so the same, probably steel, core plugs can be used, just make sure that they are protected by paint on the outside. If the engine is going to be raw water cooled, I would definitely consider swapping them for marine specific core plugs, which will almost certainly be made from brass.

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If you have a question, email us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Next boat after Hardy Pilot?

Q We currently have a Hardy

Pilot running a Honda 75hp outboard, which we mainly use around the Falmouth area. We are thinking of getting something with better accommodation. At the moment we haven’t spent a night onboard but are hopefully rectifying that soon. The issues we have though is the inability to stand below decks and the size of the heads. I am 6ft 2in. We like the fact that we can go out and use a small amount of fuel. We tend to only motor at about 7 or 8 knots and are happy with that most of the time. We do enjoy entertaining sometimes but obviously we are restricted to four of us onboard most of the time. We like the Hardy, it seems to be fairly sturdy, just a bit lacking. Can’t afford to spend a fortune but looking around I find it difficult to know what to look for.

A The Hardy is a tough little boat and well suited to your kind of use. The lack of headroom is always going to be a problem on a smallish boat, but I would suggest you maybe have a look at some sportsfishers and wheelhouse cruisers.

Boats like Jeanneau Merry Fisher, Beneteau Antares, Arvor, Trusty (T23 pictured above) and Parker usually have decent headroom in the wheelhouse, where you would spend most of your time. Finding one that also offers full standing height for you in the toilet compartment as well is likely to be tricky, unless you go bigger, but this may be a compromise you are happy to make considering the small amount of time you are likely to spend in there. Another option is to stick your budget into one of the used boat search engines and see what it throws up. There are lots of low volume boats out there for bargain prices, which would suit your requirements. A friend of mine has just picked up a 1970’s twin diesel Slickcraft 285 for not much more than Hardy Pilot money, and another is selling a twin diesel Cleopatra 850 for a similar bargain price. Boats like these will offer cheap estuary and inshore cruising at the sort of speeds you like and, although I can’t vouch for their internal headroom, they appear to be considerably more voluminous than your Hardy.

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CLASSIC CRUISERS

a complete guide to the best boats on the used market

Sealine F34

T

he British builder, Sealine, had an entry level, sterndrivepowered flybridge in its range for a staggering 28 years, from 1983 to 2009. This long line of compact, 4-6 berth flybridges started with the 30, which morphed into the Statesman 305, and was followed by the 310, 320 and modernised 330, complete with moulded flybridge steps. The 330 evolved into the F33, before finally Sealine introduced the redesigned F34. With its new stylish hull and superstructure, and revised accommodation, Sealine cleverly added

the latest innovations seen on the larger models, such as its trademark SECS, standing for ‘Sealine Extending Cockpit System’, turning this 35 foot flybridge into a 37 footer, as standard. Priced from £137k, the Sealine F34 made its debut at the 2003 Southampton Boat Show. With a reported 197 built, the last one in January 2009, the F34 was the final incarnation of Sealine’s 30ft plus flybridge line. Years later, in 2014, the F380 became the entrylevel, sterndrive-powered flybridge in the range, albeit short-lived. Today, under German ownership, Sealine currently

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Built 2003-2009 (197 built) Prices then £137,500 (2003) Prices now £80,000-£110,000 Length 35ft 6in /10.82m Beam 10ft 10in / 3.31m Draught 3ft 2in / 0.96m Air Draught 14ft 5in / 4.39m Fuel 140 gallons / 644 litres Water 62 gallons / 282 litres Displacement 6400kg approx

produces just two IPS-powered flybridge models, the new F430 and F530, which is an illustration into how times have changed. It is fair to say, in building the F34 and its forerunners, Sealine was out there on its own as possibly the only consistent British manufacturer of a compact flybridge for the best part of three decades. Fellow British builder, Princess, had stopped building its sterndrivepowered equivalent, the Princess 34, by 1997 and Fairline flybridges never ventured below 38 feet in the 2000s, with its compact sterndrive offering ceasing

in the early 1990’s when it stopped building the Corniche. It is not surprising, therefore, that when it comes to compact British flybridge cruisers there is a great choice of Sealines on the used market.

With prices starting at just over £80k, the first impressions of the F34 are of a modern-looking, diesel powered , compact flybridge for not a great deal of cash. We decided to take a closer look.

Interior A curved glass patio door leads into the saloon area. Immediately this feels

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impressively wide for a compact flybridge and the stylish, elongated windows provide plenty of light. You will also find impressive headroom of 6ft 2in in the saloon and throughout most of the interior. To starboard is a comfortable L-shaped settee providing seating for 5-6 people with an adequate-size twin pedestal table for 2-4 person dining.

Underneath the seating are large lined lockers for storage. On the opposite side is a two-person settee, providing yet more storage, with bases that pull over to the table for dining, or to convert this area into an occasional double berth. A corner cabinet provides sufficient worktop space for a small television and inside is slotted storage for wine bottles and glasses.

Like its 330 and F33 predecessors, this

two cabin boat has the galley positioned in the forward port corner within the saloon.

The L-shaped galley conceals a two burner hob, an 85-litre fridge and two round metal sinks, but also has a very clever trick up its sleeve. With predecessors suffering from lack of galley worktop space, the F34s hob cover lifts and slides aft simultaneously with the fridge top, thus creating useful additional worktop space, albeit un-fiddled and over the port settee seating. A Smev gas oven and grill is mounted into the unit below the hob and an ‘all-electric’ upgrade saw a microwave in lieu of this, together with a two ring ceramic hob. Under the sinks, the forward unit pulls out into the companionway to reveal handy shelved pantry storage.

Unfortunately the opening to this clever

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The galley is up in the saloon and has some very clever features, such as an extending worktop

area is awkward for pots and pans storage, but is great for food storage all the same.

You will also find a readily-accessible rubbish bin in the companionway unit.

Over on the starboard side is a thoughtfully laid-out and compact, raised helm position. This secondary steering position offers good visibility, accessible headroom of 5ft 3in, a twin helm seat and has the main switch panel display

above it. The moulded helm console on early models will have a simple, angled binnacle ahead of the steering wheel, incorporating necessary dials, with instruments and a chartplotter, usually an older generation Raymarine RL70, to the left. The helm console moulding was updated on later models to incorporate an 8-inch chartplotter or larger, namely the Raymarine E80, and

Out of the elements, the internal helm has a twin bench seat, a useful luxury for a boat of this size Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

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features a more intuitive tiered dash panel ahead of the skipper. You will note that both have integral chart storage ahead of the instruments, but this area is not immediately visible when seated at the helm. A small sliding window provides ventilation next to the helm.

A central companionway set of two steps lead down to a small lobby area, with doors leading off to the two cabins

Its mid cabin offers a rather large double berth

and toilet/shower. To port is the compact and well-appointed toilet compartment.

This is fitted with a sea toilet, a sink unit with shower mixer tap and storage inside, a bank of eye-level cupboards provide further storage. There is also a shower curtain to cover the door.

To starboard is the mid cabin.

Immediately inside the door is an area of full-height headroom for dressing, a small settee and a half-height cupboard containing hanging and sectioned shoe storage. Further inside, is a large, floorlevel, thwartships double berth (4ft 8in wide, 6ft 3in long), which offers ample seated headroom for the majority of the berth, its size and headroom is something of a luxury over comparable compact flybridges. Under the mattress there are several storage lockers and the boat’s water tank. An optional holding tank is fitted behind the bulkhead at the foot of this berth.

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2004 £89,950 (featured) Twin Volvo AD41 200hp diesels Boats.co.uk 01702 258885 www.boats.co.uk

2005 £104,950 Twin Volvo D4-210 diesels TBS Boats Penton 01932 570055 www.tbsboats.com The toilet compartment is practical, albeit compact

Unlike its ancestors with a V-berth or offset double, the F34’s forward master cabin sports an island double and ensuite access to the toilet compartment. While the bed dominates the cabin, there is still sufficient space to dress, with a hanging locker and a lovely deep dresser locker each side, and banks of cupboards above. Measuring a massive 4ft 11in wide and 6ft 4in long, the beds centre folding mattress makes it easy to access two large, lined storage lockers in its base, the aft-most one having a loose panel in its base for bowthruster access.

Most boats will have a cherry wood finish, with an optional Moabi wood laid floor in the galley or entire saloon area available. A saloon leather upgrade was also available, priced at £2640 in 2010. In 2004 the F34 was

2003 £87,995 Twin Volvo KAD32 diesels Southampton Waters 02380 634900 www.southamptonwaters.co.uk

2004 £94,950 Twin Volvo AD41 200hp diesels Network Yacht Brokers Conwy 01492 580001 www.networkyachtbrokers.com

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available with either a 2 or 4 kw generator, priced £5431 and £6946 respectively. A 6 kw generator set was usually lumped in as a package with reverse cycle air conditioning, at £13k. Later there was a choice of a 5 or 7 kw Dynamica generator, priced £8k and £9k.

On deck Stepping down into the aft cockpit, through the hinging transom door, there is a modest-sized bench seat with bolstered armrests aft, capable, we would suggest, of seating 2-3 people. Under its seat cushion, in the base, two hatches reveal a sizable locker for storage. This seat base, transom and bathing platform move electronically and simultaneously aft with Sealine’s trademark SECS system. This creates a larger cockpit area for entertaining, and space for erecting chairs and a twin pedestal table housed in the flybridge overhang. We would recommend testing the SECS system where possible and for this you will need to ensure that the aft

35 to 37 foot, Sealine’s SECS extending cockpit

sections of the canopy are unclipped first.

Ahead of the flybridge steps on the port side is a moulded storage unit which incorporates two lockers, one for the

The aft cockpit is deep and secure, with moulded steps to the fly and clever storage ideas 80

October 2018

shorepower connection with battery shutoffs and the other for storage of a small, valise-style liferaft. You will find the gas locker under the integral moulded side deck step ahead of this. This houses two Camping Gaz cylinders. You will also find the fuel shut offs set into the bottom step of the flybridge steps. Another ingenious aft cockpit innovation is the clamshellstyle aft canopy canvas storage in the flybridge overhang.

Moulded steps each side in the cockpit allow you to easily move out onto the side decks. These are approximately 18 cm (7in) in width, have a moulded toerail, and are enclosed by sturdy guardrails with a wire lower rail. We noted that both the water and diesel fillers are mounted into the port side deck, which might be a recipe for problems when it comes to topping up with water or fuel, so extra care is needed to avoid an inconvenient mistake. The side decks gradually narrow and converge with the unadorned sloping foredeck, and at the bow there is a large

chain locker capable of swallowing several fenders.

Despite having two grabrails running along the top flybridge moulding, you do feel somewhat exposed when moving forward of this. Perhaps extending these further forward and around the leading edge of the flybridge moulding would be beneficial for deck crew.

Flybridge Moulded steps, with a low gate at the top, lead up to the flybridge and into a standing area/draining well. Aloft, on an upper level, is a slightly off-centre helm position protected by a wraparound screen, with a simple, but well laid out moulded console and spacious, threeperson, adjustable bench helm seat.

Again, as with the interior helm, the flybridge console was originally designed to accommodate an older-generation Raymarine RL70 to the left of the wheel.

A redesign saw an 8-inch plotter, such as the E80 or larger, fitted on later models.

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On the left side of the console is a small Perspex chart storage area, sadly really too small for charts, and an open locker below it, which is ideal for flybridge day essentials, such as binoculars, instrument covers, sun cream and bottles of water.

Behind the helm seat there is a large sunpad area. This will usually have some form of backrest, creating another useful row of two or three forward facing seats, with either two individual back rests slotting into the sunpad moulding, or, a gantry of three, as seen on our featured boat.

Unlike its larger sibling, the F37, which has a flybridge door, the F34 has a concertina, battened hatch cover to keep the rain out of the cockpit, so it is important to check that this is in good order. The same goes for the vinyl flybridge cushions, sunpad/helm covers and overall optional tonneau cover, if fitted. Optional teak flooring was available on the flybridge, which is

smart and practical, but will require extra ongoing maintenance, to keep to that way. Ultimately it may require expensive replacement if neglected.

You will note that most models will be fitted with a ‘whale tail’ radar mast, while much later models will have a slightly lower air draft and a more conventional radar arch. The height above the waterline is respectively 4.39m and 4.32m, including the mast. This change, circa 2008/2009, coincided with larger flybridge model, the F37, receiving the same arch treatment.

Hull and Handling The F34’s hull features a fairly sharp bow entry and chines which run well forward, thus cutting through chop and deflecting spray outwards efficiently. Being fitted with twin sterndrives, the F34 has the handling characteristics of a sportscruiser, and therefore will lean fairly aggressively in tight turns. It will require some trim, both of tabs and legs, to get maximum

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??????????????????????? ??????????????????????? ????????

performance and best cruising attitude, for example in a beam-on wind or in choppier sea conditions. The turning and trim lean may take some getting used to when driving from the flybridge, but the boat is more than capable and will provide an agile yet smooth and stable ride in normal conditions. For added reassurance when moving at close quarters, a 5hp Volvo QL bowthruster was a £3k option, and is a feature that is worth looking out for.

Docking lights could be mounted into the hull at the bow as an extra. If fitted, check the condition of the screws around the bezels, as there are reports of these rusting in a salty environment.

Be aware that early models suffered from rain water leaking into the engine bay through the side engine vents, which is something that Sealine addressed in later models.

Engines Most F34’s will be fitted with Volvo Penta diesel engines mated to Volvo duo prop sterndrives. When the F34 was first introduced Sealine continued on the F33 path, offering twin 170hp KAD32s or 200hp AD41s as base options, but offered in addition twin 230hp KAD43s providing a top speed of 33 knots. Soon after came the introduction of Volvo’s new generation D-series engines, which saw twin D4s, in various horsepower guises, appearing on F34 pricelists. This roll out started with 210hp D4s in 2004 (giving 30-32 knots), 260hp in 2005 (33-35 knots) and finally in 2006, the AD41s and D4-210s were replaced with a base engine option of 225hp D4s (30-32 knots). By 2010/11 the F34 was only available with 260hp D4s giving 32-35 knots, priced from £205,625.

F34s fitted with the AD41s should be

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A choice of Volvo Penta diesel engines.

The F34 was fitted with D4-210s, pictured top left on a 2005 example, 200hp AD41s top right on a 2004 boat and 170hp KAD32s (2003) bottom.

The well fitted-out engine bay is easily accessible and quite spacious, with plenty of room each side for storage

underpowered, these should provide top speeds of 25-26 knots and cruising speeds of around 20 knots. F34s fitted with the two initial engine options, mentioned above, will normally be at the lower end of the price scale. For speed demons with a bigger budget, models fitted with the larger KAD and D4 engines will appeal, offering top speeds of 33-35 knots and a cruising speed of 25+ knots. At cruising speeds we would expect 1.6 miles per gallon, or more, across the spectrum.

Engine access is via a large, gas strutted hatch in the aft cockpit floor. This reveals the majority of the two engines, stretching as far as the header tanks on AD41s, which is excellent for checks and servicing. The engine bay itself is impressively engineered, with a small metal access step forward and sizeable two-person-sized grid plate area ahead of the engines. This is not just useful for This 2004 example is fitted with AD41s mated to engine checks, but can also be used for Volvo’s duo prop sterndrives secured boxed storage too. There is more able to achieve top speeds of 30 knots, but will be most economical at cruising speeds of 20-22 knots. Boats fitted with supercharged KAD32 engines seem quite rare, which leads us to believe that very few were built. Considered slightly

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than adequate room to move between and crawl outside of the engines, furthermore on the example we viewed, an outboard mounted on a bracket to starboard was illustrative of the space available.

Fuel filters are mounted to the forward bulkhead on the port side, while batteries are concealed inside a GRP box between the engines. The boat will normally have four 110Ah batteries, split three for starboard and domestic and one for port engine on mechanical engines, and two and two on electronically controlled engines. Like many sterndrive-powered boats, service points located at the back of the engine bay are slightly harder to get to.

The two fuel tanks are located side by side, running fore-and-aft ahead of the forward engine bulkhead, and access to these are via a panel in the saloon floor.

When it comes to engines, Volvos are highly regarded, with good availability of

parts and a widespread service network.

Those wanting to cut costs and carry out services themselves may want to opt for the ‘bullet proof ’ older generation engines, namely the AD41s and KAD engines. Those looking to buy examples with the newer generation, electronicallymanaged D-series engines will need to factor in ongoing service costs, checking that regular servicing and any necessary warranty work has been carried out.

Conclusion Whether you are new to boating or not, the Sealine F34 is a clever, stylish, spacious and economical flybridge that is suitable for a family or couple, and is sure to bring many hours of fun cruising, either coastal or inland.

Thank you to Richard Allen at RPA Boat Sales for his assistance with the Sealine F34 build information.

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

Family 30

1983-1986

Prices £20,000- £30,000

Length 32ft Beam 10ft 8in The original Sealine flybridge with V-berth, lower galley and dark wood interior.

Buy one 1986 £19,500 www.tingdeneboatsales.net

310/320

1990-1994

Prices £33,000-£50,000

Length 34ft Beam 10ft 6in A modern-looking starter flybridge offering two double cabins and 4-6 berths.

Buy one 1994 £49,000 www.yachtshop.co.uk

330/F33

1994-2003

Prices £60,000 - £80,000

Length 34ft 6in Beam 11ft Slightly wider than the previous 310 Statesman but offers the same galley-up, 2-cabin layout.

Buy one F33 2001 £75,000 www.valwyattmarine.co.uk

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CRUISING

Friesland Charter

With some unfinished boating on the Dutch inland waterways, MBO Sub Editor, Pam Born decided to charter a steel boat to explore its Friesland Province

I

n 2004 we took our own boat to Holland, entering the most southerly Zeeland province via Vlissingen and travelling north across the Veerse Meer, Oosterschelde and Gravelingenmeer as far as the Marina Port Zelande and Brouwershaven in the west and then Willemstad and Goes in the East. We

loved it and always intended to return, but the time constraints of work, family and the ever increasing cost of fuel, not to mention the uncertain situation regarding red diesel, took their toll and we never made it back. So when a couple of friends expressed an interest in a boat charter in Holland, we jumped at the chance of

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Grou

Sneek

Terherne SNEEKERMEER

Heeg Joure

SLOTERMEER Sloten

Langweer

gri Princes Mar et Kanaal

HEEGERMEER Woudsend

TJEUKEMEER

Lemmer IJSSELMEER

joining them.

We did some research and someone recommended De Schiffart Yachtcharter in Terherne, situated in the most northerly Friesland Province which, apparently, has the largest amount of water of all the provinces and is made up of large meers, interconnected by both large and small waterways. The largest of these waterways is the Prinses Margriet Kanaal which travels north east across the province carrying large commercial barge traffic from Lemmer in the south,

on the Ijsselmeer. We finalised our charter in February and at that time, many of the boats were already booked, so it is advisable to book early. We selected the 12.5-metre, aft cabin, two ensuite cabin, Valkkruiser, called Cook. This was fitted with a 150hp Iveco single diesel and had all the toys and creature comforts you could wish for, such as bow and sternthrusters, an inverter and heating (should we need it in July). The charter company were very helpful, but with the language barrier, communication was

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obviously a little confusing, in particular when it came to ordering extras, such as towels and bedding. We also found it difficult to plan our route prior to arrival in the Netherlands, with very little information available on the internet.

However, in this respect we found the Imray book, Inland Waterways of the Netherlands by Louise Busby and David Broad really useful.

Day 1 - Schiffart/Terherne to Joure Our adventure began in mid-July with an early morning drive to Luton Airport and a 6am Easyjet flight to Amsterdam. We opted for a taxi to take us to Terherne, a 1.5 hour journey, but Amsterdam based taxi companies wanted a small fortune to do this, so we arranged in advance for a

local taxi firm in Terherne to pick us up.

Again, the language barrier meant that we were slightly delayed at the airport, due to not being clear as to where we were expected to meet the driver but eventually got to the boatyard at 11am, hungry and tired. To our great delight, on arrival, the charter team presented us with a lovely basket full of breakfast goodies, we were shown to our boat, and left to enjoy our breakfast of a flask of hot coffee, fresh rolls and butter, ham, cheese, eggs, yoghurt, orange juice and peaches. Feeling thoroughly refreshed we walked into Terherne town to find the small supermarket. With supplies for the following day duly stowed, and following Below, postcard views of picturesque Joure

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a short handover and introduction to the boat, we started the engine and headed out of the marina and onto the Prinses Margriet Kanaal, turning south onto the Sneekermeer, Alde Wei and then into Jouster Syllroede to the town of Joure.

Our bankside mooring in the town was €19, with shower facilities 50c at the huge marina basin closeby. Joure is quite a big town with a long high street full of interesting shops, restaurants and large supermarket (Albert Hein, one of the largest supermarket chains in Holland).

It was in Joure that we came across the exquisite sound of our first Carolyon Bells,

tinkerling from the tower of the historic church in the High Street. Our chosen eatery for our first night was Bistro Fred in the High Street where the food was good.

Day 2 - Joure to Lemmer Having replenished our ships stores in Joure’s excellent supermarket we retraced our route back along the canal and turned left, making our way onto Langwarder Wielen, through the Schartsterbrug and Scharsterrijnbrug (lifting bridges) for a quick lunchtime stop at Zandrak.

Completely out in the open, Zandrak is one of the numerous, easily accessible,

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free countryside moorings for leisure boaters available all over the province.

From Zandrak we entered yet another huge expanse of water, the Tjeukemeer, and from there we picked up the Prinses Margriet Kanaal and Grutte Brekken to Lemmer, our most southerly port of call.

We chose the large Iselmar Marina for our overnight mooring (â‚Ź31) as it was a large complex with good facilities, having a hotel, with swimming pool, bar and nice restaurant, all on site. From here, we took a short walk along the footpath that leads directly to the beach on the banks of the Ijsselmeer, stopping at the very popular Beachclub Bar for a drink and to soak

up some of the cosmopolitan, seaside atmosphere along the way. We ate in the Hotel Restaurant on site in the evening the food and service were excellent.

Day 3 - Lemmer to Woudsend via Sloten We awoke to grey skies and a much lower temperature this morning. Departing Iselmar Marina, we headed back up the Prinses Margreit Kanaal, turning east across Brademar and on to the tiny but delightful village of Sloten. The free public moorings were a short walk from the village centre where we found one shop, a bakers, where we purchased a large loaf and a local speciality cake called Sugarcake

Remote tranquility at lunchtime stop, Sloten

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for lunch, all for the princely sum of €4.80.

On the mooring at Sloten was a Broom 39, called Sunshine Coast, flying an Australian flag. It belonged to an adventurous, retired, Australian couple, Geoff and Leanne Peters, who had come to England, purchased the boat in Southampton and cruised along the south coast to the Thames Estuary and up to London, then crossed the channel to Dunkirk and up the Belgium canals and rivers to Brugge.

From there they cruised to Holland, working their way up through Zeeland, Flavoland and Friesland provinces, where we had caught up with them. We were all envious of the adventure they were having.

They are writing a blog and giving talks on their adventures. You will be hearing more about them in a future issue of MBO. The weather had deteriorated after

lunch, with some light showers and strong gusts of wind of over 25 mph. We decided to take a shorter passage than planned and visit the town of Woudsend, where the chart showed many town moorings on both sides of the lifting bridge and a couple of boatyards.

When we arrived, we found all the moorings either taken or roped off for what looked like children’s watersports activities and it all seemed a bit chaotic.

Not wishing to manoeuvre within the confines of a marina in the strong wind, we found the only spot available to us was a strip of land on the starboard bank opposite, unfortunately with no access to the town and nowhere to walk to either. In the strong wind we approached the grass bank mooring and after two failed attempts at throwing (I blame the

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light ropes), I made the bad decision of getting off the boat. Unfortunately, the combination of high sided boat and low bank meant I nose-dived into the grass, resulting in a nose bleed and a few grazes, but I reckon I had got off lightly.

With the boat now secure we settled ourselves in for the afternoon. Our mooring provided us with some entertainment, watching the antics of boats trying to manoeuvre in the wind and rain and with no access to shops of any kind, it was fortuitous that we had the ingredients for a Chilli Con Carne onboard for our evening meal.

After several games of Whist (I never go anywhere without a pack of cards) we retired to our beds with the wind howling and the rain lashing down and hoped that the next day would bring better weather.

Woudsend was a busy centre for watersports

to Heeg to find a supermarket.

Heeg turned out to be a little treasure.

There were good, free, short stay moorings (8am-4pm) on the town quay but, if you wanted to overnight here, you would need to go into one of the yacht basins.

The town, like so many others, was Day 4 - Woudsend to Langweer via Heeg charming. The narrow streets led to an The weather showed little sign of equally narrow road of shops including improvement but, even with the lovely a jewellers, chandlers, white goods, card views, we were going a little ‘stir-crazy’ shop and a very nice gift shop opposite by our enforced confinement on our the quay, which also sold clothes and tiny piece of land and were eager to set household supplies. We spent some time ourselves free, seek pastures new and, browsing here. There was also a traditional most importantly, replenish our rapidly boat building business opposite the quay. diminishing ships stores. We headed north Crossing the little bridge, there was a restaurant/bar on the water’s edge and a few hundred yards down the lane, to the right, was a well-stocked Coop, with fresh meat and deli counter. We were able to get everything we wanted plus more and prices were very reasonable.

The passage to Langweer necessitated crossing a large stretch of open water, Langwarder Wielan. In the wind this looked very angry with quite a ‘chop’ of white horses. There are some very Heeg was a treasure, with short stay moorings, pretty narrow streets, cafés and a supermarket shallow areas to be avoided here, so it 92

October 2018

Langmeer was a worthy 30-minute walk with its gorgeous views, windmill and tree-lined high street

is important to stay within the buoyed channel. There were also huge dredgers at work. We never quite made Langweer by boat as, on our approach, we spotted the entrance to another tributary with some very nice waterside residential properties. We decided to explore further, finding the small marina, Jachthaven De Woudfennen, with its Caribbean style restaurant, Bista Lago, just tucked inside the entrance. The sun had come out and the neat little marina was sheltered from the winds and a good escape from the conditions on the meer. The mooring fee was €17 per night and there were nice showers and toilets, water and electric hook ups, a child’s play area and a small

foot ferry to the opposite bank where a footpath led to a recreational area with a beach. The very pleasant and easy walk into Langweer from the marina took 30 minutes going and 20 on the way back, as we found a short cut. Langweer was a pretty town with a tree-lined main street of bars, restaurants, clothes and gift shops and a small supermarket. The town quay and basin, where all the moorings were, seemed full and very busy as there is yet another beach and recreational area a little further on, which is a great attraction for families. We ate at Café de Tapperij in the main street, run by a very friendly husband and wife team, serving good pub-type grub at reasonable prices. The

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Dinner at Café de Tapperij at Langmeer and our overnight mooring at Jachthaven De Woudfennen

very special, deep-fried chips, which came with our schnitzel, fish and chicken dishes, were amazing and like none we have ever had before. Back on the boat that night, we made good use of the excellent Wi-Fi connection.

Day 5 - Langweer to Sneek Although very close to our boat pick up point in Terherne, it had been suggested by a friend who had boated in Friesland before that we might find Sneek (pronounced Snake and the largest city in the area) a little ‘challenging’ on our first day. So, fifth day in, this was to be our one and only destination. Sneek has a sprawling network of canals running through it with little lifting bridges to allow boats of all sizes passage. In the 1700s Sneek was a small, walled harbour

town with a distinctive tower entrance called the ‘Watergate’. This is all that remains of the original surrounding wall and is a striking piece of architecture.

The streets are narrow and quaint with amazing colourful floral displays everywhere. Restaurants, and coffee shops abound and the shopping centre is absolutely huge. We sat in the market square, having coffee and soaked up some of the cosmopolitan atmosphere, surrounded by thousands of bicycles. Back on our mooring in the canal (mooring fee €20), we cooked fillet steak washed down with a good bottle of red wine and settled in for a night of football on the TV. The boat had excellent satellite reception and it was the England v’s Croatia semi-final game. Our steak was superb but, sadly, the football didn’t end well.

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October 2018

Day 6 - Sneek to Grou Once through the lifting bridge that ‘contained’ us within the tiny canal, we motored along the main waterway out of Sneek in brilliant sunshine, our destination, Grou, which is further north.

Back on the Prinses Margriet Kanaal, going under road bridges and over aqueducts, our travelling companions once again became large commercial barges and hotel boats.

The entrance to Grou lies just off the Prinses Margriet Kanaal on a small peninsula of land, littered with boatyards and public town moorings, all serenaded by the sound of Carolyon bells from the church. We moored up on the pontoon belonging to the Oostergoo Hotel and booked in for a celebratory evening meal.

This was to be our last evening on the boat as we were heading home the next

day. Grou, pronounced Grouw, has an interesting history as described by a lovely lady called Maryja, who runs the old curiosity shop next to the church. She told us that Grou was originally a small fishing community with a very large church built in the 12th Century, surrounded by sea water, the Middlezee. For centuries people had wondered how such a small village could afford to build such a large church.

It transpires that besides the fishermen, there were also wealthy ship builders and this is presumed to be the source of the finance for the church. Right next to her shop was a small brick shed, where, she joked, she lived with six men! This lady was such a character with a great sense of humour. However, she went on to explain that this small building had an interesting past. Apparently there was no road access into Grou until relatively recently, so everything came by water. Consequently, if

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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Swingbridge and barge traffic at Grou, on the ‘water highway’ that is the Prinses Margriet Kanaal

anyone died within the surrounding area, the bodies were brought to the church by boat and stored in her little shed until they were buried. Maryja was also able to enlighten us on something we had all been pondering over. The Friesians are very proud of their province, and rightly so.

They have their own flag which is flown prominently on boats and buildings and is used to decorate everything from clogs, children’s clothes and even underpants.

The lines of white and blue match the colouring of the national flag, but we wondered what the red shapes were. Were they hearts or perhaps a Friesian cow hooves? It is in fact a lily pad leaf.

Our final, celebratory, end of cruise dinner was spent in the hotel restaurant where good food, wine and service, topped off with liquor coffees, provided a special evening for the

crew. We got back to the boat just in time to watch our final setting of the sun over this picturesque landscape.

Day 7 - Grou to Terherne Our boat had to be back at the De Schiffart boatyard by 4pm, our taxi to Amsterdam was booked for 4.30pm and our return flight to Luton from Amsterdam left at 9.30pm. We were, however, determined to make the most of our final day. Rejoining the Prinses Margriet Kanaal we turned south for our return journey to Terherne and found a small peaceful backwater off the Kanaal, which was perfect for a long, relaxing lunchtime stop, where we ate most of the remaining contents of the fridge and did some packing ready for our disembarkation.

Back at the De Schiffart base, our

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Charts & Pilot Books

€2 in a clog, a novel way to collect bridge fees

handover was quick and easy, our security deposit was returned, minus the cost of fuel and a few extras and, after a brief wait for the taxi, we were on our way home.

For us the experience had been memorable and extremely pleasurable.

Friesland is totally dominated by the leisure boating industry with boatyards, marine companies and yacht charter businesses in almost every town you visit.

Furthermore, the waterways are clean with abundant moorings and facilities for boaters and it is clear to see that significant investment is being made to continually improve the infrastructure.

As for the waterside towns we visited, I fear I will run out of complimentary, descriptive terms. Every one of these on our trip was beautiful, clean, mostly pedestrian friendly and always festooned with magnificently stunning, planted floral displays. We had not had the sweltering weather that the UK was experiencing, but it was pleasantly warm. We had cruised for around 25 hours and the boat was easy to handle, well maintained and comfortable.

Will we be back? We very much hope so, as seven cruising days is simply nowhere near sufficient to see all that the beautiful province has to offer.

Supplied onboard our charter boat: • ANWB (A) Waterchart Groningen/Drenthe • ANWB (B) Waterchart - Friesland • ANWB (C) Waterchart - NW Overijssel • Water Almanaks 1 & 2 are legally required, but are all in Dutch Recommended reading: • Imray publication, Inland Waterways of the Netherlands by Louise Busby and David Broad

Costs

• Boat Rental (6 nights) €2250 (£2080.45) including bank charges • Easy Jet return flights from Luton to Amsterdam £241.84 (per couple) • Airport Car Parking £56.99 • A €500 security deposit is payable on arrival • Diesel €169.00 • Additional bedding and towels €74

Local Charges

• Taxi Fare - return journey Amsterdam-Terherne €300 • Moorings - Four overnight mooring charges totalling €87, two overnight moorings were free

Bridges

A traffic light system is in operation at bridges, some lift and some swing, some even have push-button request.

For most there is no charge, but the old-fashioned system of collecting cash in very ingenious ways exists in some locations. At one small lifting bridge a fee of €2 was collected via a rope with a clog on the end.

Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

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tested Ocean LED Sports underwater lights

PRICE from

£375

Last year we fitted a set of Ocean LED Sport S3116s underwater lights to our Sealine S28. The aim was more to provide a fascinating insight into sub aqua marine life than anything else, and now that Motorboat Owner we are 18 months down the line, how have they fared?

“A good mid-range The Sport S3116s is available in blue or white and come with underwater light both solid light or strobe effect. We chose the blue and fitted them with lots of options” in around half a day with some basic tools and a little electrical Value 3/5 knowledge (see June 2017 issue for installation). The lights have Usability 5/5 an aluminium bronze body for corrosion resistance, and the glass Performance 4/5 has a Tritonium coating to ease cleaning. They also claim to be brighter and have a narrower beam angle than competitor lights.

At a cost of around £375 each, we chose to fit two lights to the transom. In hindsight, with twin sterndrives, three would have been better, with one outside of each drive and a third in the middle. On a single outdrive boat, or a shaftdrive, two would be ideal, but as it was we installed two, both centrally between the drives. This gave us a very bright and well illuminated area, albeit a bit concentrated in the middle of the transom.

Overall we have been very pleased with their performance. They are certainly much brighter than the cheaper units they replaced, and the pool of blue light at the back of the boat spreads quite a distance. They certainly attract the wildlife too, as within minutes of turning them on we get shoals of small fish, which in turn attracts the bigger ones. Personally, I can leave the TV switched off when I can sit and watch this.

It really is like having an aquarium at the back of your boat, although the clearer the water, the better the effect. The strobe effect is said to attract more fish, although I found it too distracting. Perhaps if you are using them to actually fish, it might be beneficial, but personally I could do without it.

If required, switching to strobe mode is simply a matter of switching the lights on, off and on again in quick succession.

Installation was straightforward Overall I have been very pleased with the result, 98

October 2018

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

with just one slight problem, fouling. After a season in the water the lights were very noticeably dimmer than when first installed. Being fixed back under the bathing platform, it is not that easy to scrub them while in the water so, although I had a go a couple of times, I undoubtedly did not make the best use of that Tritonium coating. When the boat was lifted, it was obvious why light output was down, a thick coat of weed type fouling. A simple scrub was all that Fouling on the lens was heavy was needed to remove this, so we will need to make a bigger effort to reach them while afloat, to maintain their best performance in future.

Since we fitted ours, Ocean LED has introduced an S3214s model, which does both blue and white, and an S3166s model that does white and full RGB colours.

Enquiries: Ocean LED Marine Ltd www.oceanled.com

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Highly competitive ‘Peace of mind’ cover 99

Finnmaster Husky R8s

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October 2018

BOAT TEST

Length (LOA): 7.60m / 24ft 11in Beam: 2.48m / 8ft 2in Displacement: 1,856kg Fuel capacity: 214 litres Water capacity: n/a RCD category: C Engines as tested: 1 x 350hp Yamaha F350 Other engine options: 1 x outboard 225hp-350hp Price from ÂŁ98,238 with Yamaha F300

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I

n five years we have only ever tested one Aluminium hulled boat before, and that was the entry-level model to this month’s R8s. The R5 was a very competent, easy to drive, safe and fun package that was affordable as well as being tough and durable. I came away from that test thinking I needed an R5 in my life. Would the boat at the opposite end of the range deliver a scaled up performance, or would it have something more up its sleeve?

The R8s is the flagship of a five-boat range of aluminium hulled bow riders.

There is already an R8 in the range that uses the same hull and offers the same basic features, but the starting price of the ‘s’ version is nearly £30k more than the

entry cost of the standard R8. Even comparing like for like, both with a 300hp Yamaha on the transom, there is still a £27k premium, so what makes the ‘s’ version so special? Well, apart from the fact that you have the option of an extra 50hp, like we did with our test boat, the rest is all about styling and additional equipment bolted on as standard.

With the ‘s’ version you get a full canopy, upgraded upholstery,

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“We were blown away by the performance of this 25-foot Finnish aluminium sportster”

A real head turner with performance to match, we were loathed to relinquish the helm

a bowthruster, automatic trim, AV system, skiing bracket, matt black T Top and upgraded seats with adjustable suspension pedestals, amongst other things, as standard, as well as black rails, cleats and hull graphics.

The layout of the R8s is basically a scaled up version of the other boats in the range. It is an open bow sportsboat with plenty of seating and enough standard and extra options to be whatever you want it to be. In the bow there is comfortable seating along the port side, with a large storage locker below and, in typical Scandinavian style, there is easy and safe access over the bow, thanks to an open rail with raised sections to steady your way, and a hidden bow ladder in the space below, that doubles as an anchor locker. Even the bow cushion has been cleverly designed so that a small section Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

103

of it quickly flips over to reveal the nonslip clad step below, without requiring complete removal. While we may not access our boats over the bow in quite the same way as our Nordic friends, this is still a useful feature when beaching or trailer launching. The starboard side of the bow

The port side bow seat offers copious storage below, which extends into the port side console

is devoid of seating, leaving the helm with a clear view forward, but there is a useful pair of steps moulded just in front of the helm console to allow easy boarding over the starboard side.

Moving back into the cockpit, you pass through an opening section of the windscreen, a lower bow door, and between the helm and navigator’s consoles.

These both house huge storage lockers, the port side of which combines with the bow seat locker to allow storage of longer items.

“The R8s delivers as good a helming experience as you will encounter”

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At the helm you get a superbly supportive bucket seat mounted on a standard shockabsorbing pedestal. The seat is adjustable and comes with a lifting bolster. The console itself is well laid out, with an adjustable steering wheel, space for a large multi-function display and a few places to store your personal bits and bobs when underway. Your crew gets a matching seat and shock absorbing mount, a sturdy grab rail and arm rest and, again, plenty of storage for smaller items, including a generously sized glove box directly in front of them that also houses the controls for the standard fit audio system.

Aft of the helm there is a very large U-shaped seating arrangement that could easily accommodate six of your rated nine crew. This area also converts surprisingly The sunpad was quick and easy to deploy, but easily and quickly into a very large sunpad the cushions do eat into your cockpit stowage Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd

105

PERFORMANCE

As tested 100% fuel 0% Water 2 crew F2-3 RPM

area, although the cushions required to do so take up quite a bit of the space provided by the deep cockpit lockers located beneath this seating. There is also a table stored within these lockers to create a really nice family-sized seating area.

Overhead, the standard T Top offers sun protection to the helm and crew and, to a lesser extent, the aft seating area. Out back, the two-part, two-level bathing platform incorporates a pair of usefully sized wet lockers, a sturdy bathing ladder and the standard matt-black watersports bracket.

600 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 5700

Knots

LPH

GPH

MPG

2.9 5.0 6.9 7.5 9.6 17.5 24.8 30.5 41.0 46.4 49.8 52.9

3.2 6.9 12.4 20.0 26.7 32.3 37.6 47.3 68.4 78.0 110.8 125.0

0.70 1.52 2.73 4.40 5.87 7.11 8.27 10.4 15.0 17.2 24.4 27.5

4.14 3.29 2.53 1.70 1.64 2.46 3.00 2.93 2.73 2.69 2.04 1.92

Range (nm)

195 155 119 80 77 116 141 138 128 126 96 90

like getting behind the wheel of a quality sports car, it just feels right. The seat is comfortable and supportive, the wheel and throttle are perfectly placed and the driving position feels spot on. Open the throttle and the comparison continues, as the 350 horses propel the Husky onwards like a pocket rocket. The boat is planing Underway within three seconds, is doing 20 knots Taking your place at the helm of the R8s is just three seconds later and a further three 106

October 2018

Impeccable helm aesthetics and Yamaha’s finest V8 combine to deliver a stunning driver’s boat

“Raceboat attributes, 350 horses propel this Husky onwards like a pocket rocket” seconds finds you at 30 knots. Leave the throttle pinned and the R8s will reach almost 53 knots. The transition onto the plane, at around 3000rpm, does leave the bow a little high in the air, but this is so momentary that it barely registers. Once over the hump, you can throttle back and maintain a full planing profile down to around 3000rpm. Up to this point the R8s needs no trim, but as the revs increase and the speed rises it responds well to around half trim at 4000rpm and three quarters trim at 5500rpm. We reached a top speed with 5700rpm, but it felt like there may have been just a little more to give, with a tad more trim, but we didn’t have flat enough waters on our test day to find out.

The R8s is a boat that you can, and Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd

will, drive fast. 30 knots feels pedestrian and it cruises happily and comfortably in flat seas at 40 knots with no fuss at all and very little effort. It handles short chop really well and feels very composed, perfectly balanced and well set up. The tall windscreen offers good protection and the twin pantograph wipers maintain good visibility in spray or rain. The elbow rest next to the throttle was well positioned and the driving aesthetics are generally excellent.

Aluminium hulls can sometimes deliver a noisy ride, but with the R8s I literally forgot that I was on an metal hulled boat. The ride was superb, the handling impeccable and the driving experience first class. In short the R8s is an utterly

107

Practical features abound, with easy access onboard from all directions

competent sports boat that is nigh-on impossible to fault and will deliver just about as good a helming experience as you will encounter.

While we are specifically looking at the ‘s’ version of this boat, it is worth remembering that the standard R8 model offers a very similar package, albeit with a few less features as ‘standard’ and a maximum engine size that would leave you with 50hp less under your right hand.

The R8 with 300hp on the back will lose you around five knots on the top speed, delivering a still exhilarating 48 knots, and will, undoubtedly, be equally competent and almost as much fun to drive. So if you want a piece of this action, but can’t

quite reach the near £100k asking price, the standard R8 will provide a very similar experience, while also leaving a reasonably hefty bulge in your wallet.

Conclusion Like the R5, I finished the test with a real desire to add an R8s to my personal fleet, but for a host of different reasons. The R5 was exceptionally competent, and a great little runabout or day boat. The R8s is equally competent, but in a more visceral way. I have driven and competed in a race boat that only managed a few knots more than the Husky, and it needed actively driving, high levels of concentration and careful handling if you didn’t want to wear

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it as a hat. By comparison, the R8s feels like your granny could drive it, and drive it fast, without any real drama. I haven’t had as much fun driving a boat for a long time and did not want to relinquish the helm when my test was up. Normally my boating is all about carrying my kitchen, bedroom and bathroom with me, but for the R8s I would happily make an exception, pack a toothbrush and book into a B&B. I came away with the same sort of buzz you get after having a track day driving experience. It felt like a Ferrari, to my Ford, a Lamborghini to my Land Rover. I have often toyed with the idea of a little sporty two-seater sports car for days out and summer fun. The Husky R8s is the aquatic

The Husky R8s left us grinning from ear to ear, and that is what boating is all about

equivalent and, while it may be a similar price to a decent used Ferrari, you can at least enjoy it to its maximum without fear of losing your licence.

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

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LOA: 7.60m Beam: 2.55m Displacement: 1,790kg ex eng Enquiries: Offshore Powerboats Tel: 01590 677955 www.offshorepowerboats.co.uk

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The flagship of Bella Boats Falcon model range that sees its successful BR lineup of GRP vessels recreated in aluminium.

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CRANCHI Z35

2x Volvo Penta D4-260 Engines FROM £270,000 INC VAT EW

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Cranchi Endurance 30

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Volvo Penta V8 Petrol Engine FROM £124,000 INC VAT

2x Volvo Penta 370 IPS Diesel Engines FROM €513,000 EX VAT

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Admiral 450 Dory 424 2018 Orkney

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TINGDENE SALES OFFICES Thames & Kennet Marina 01189 477770

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New and Used

Boats for Sale 01189 403211

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

Texas / 430

Liberty / 4.75 xl

Atlanta / 24

1990 | £4,500 | 14.1ft | 4.3m

2013 | £9,750 | 15.4ft | 4.7m

2010 | £21,750 | 26ft | 7.9m

1983 | £22,500 | 30.5ft | 9.3m

Interboat / 22

Marex / 280 Holiday

Interboat / 25

Sealine / F33

2006 | £29,950 | 22.3ft | 6.8m

2000 | £44,995 | 29ft | 8.8m

2009 | £45,000 | 25.8ft | 7.9m

2001 | £75,000 | 34.5ft | 10.5m

Great Dory-style boat with plenty of seating, complete with trailer

Beautiful sloop, new canopy, teak floor and toilet

Well cared for, recently-serviced, polished & antifouled, with trailer

Spacious cruiser with a great layout, bowthruster & heating

Great accommodation, oven, hob, fridge, heating & electric toilet

Luxury edition with toilet, shore power, bowthruster & sunpad

Princess / 30DS

Spacious cruiser with twin engines, separate toilet/shower compartment

Seaworthy flybridge cruiser, regularly serviced & lifted annually

Get the boating life.. ...with Val Wyatt Marine.

Offering everything you need to get on the water – from our picturesque family-run marina.

01189 403211

As well as an impressive range of river boat and offshore brands – including the handmade Interboat and British-built Haines – we offer: • sales - new and used • moorings and maintenance • friendly, expert advice

So come and visit us at our superb site at Willow Marina, soak up the atmosphere and experience a whole new lifestyle!

Open seven days a week.

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

Owners Directory i Arvor Boat Owners Club

Dell Quay Ranger website

www.arvorboatowners.co.uk

www.dellquayranger.supanet.com

Aquastar Owners Club

Electric Boat Association

www.aquastarclub.co.uk

www.electric-boat-association.org.uk

Atlanta Boat Owners

Elysian Boat Owners

www.atlantaboats.co.uk

www.elysianboats.co.uk

Bavaria Owners’ Association

Fairey Owners Club

www.bavariaowners.co.uk

www.faireyownersclub.co.uk

Bayliner Owners Club

Fairline Owners Club

www.baylinerownersclub.org

www.fairlineownersclub.com

Beneteau Owners’ Association

Fjord Club

www.beneteau-owners-association.org.uk

www.fjordclub.com

Broom Owners Club

Fletcher Owners Group

www.broomowners.com

www.facebook.com/groups/4011883149

Chaparral Boat Owners Forum

Freeman Cruisers Forum

forum.chaparralboats.com

freemanboats.forumer.com

Classic Motor Boat Association

Freeman Owners Club

www.cmba-uk.com

www.freemancruisers.com

Classic Offshore Powerboat Club

Freeman Cruisers

www.classicoffshore.com

freeman-cruisers.forumotion.co.uk

Cleopatra Owners Club

Haines Owners Club

mycleopatra.ning.com

www.hainesmarine.co.uk/owners.php

Coronet Cruisers

Hampton Safari Boat Club

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

hamptonsafaribc.webplus.net

Corvette Motorboat Association

Hardy Owners Club

corvettemotorboat.wordpress.com

Cranchi Owners Club & Forum cranchiownersclub.com

Dawncraft Owners Club & Forum www.dawncraftowners.com

112

www.hardy-owner.org.uk

Jeanneau Owners Network

www.jeanneau-owners.com

Marex Owners Club www.marexownersclub.co.uk

October 2018

Owners Club missing?

Contact us at

editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk

Mariah Owners Club

Sealine Forum

www.mariahownersclub.com

www.sealineforum.co.uk

Maxum Owners Club

Sealine Owners Club

www.maxumownersclub.com

www.sealineowners.com

Microplus Boats

Seamaster Club

www.microplus.dk

www.seamasterclub.org

Monterey Fourm

Seaward Owners Club

forums.montereyboats.com

www.seawardboat.com/club.html

Moonraker Owner’s Club

Shadow Boats - Victoria Shadow Association

www.moonraker.dk/eng_index.htm

www.victoriashadow.co.uk

Nauticus

Shetland Owners Association

www.nauticus.co.uk

www.shetlandowners.co.uk/shetland/

Nelson Boat Owners Club

Star Craft Owners Club

www.nelsonboatownersclub.co.uk

www.bates-starcraft.co.uk

Nimbus Owners Club UK

Storebro Passion

www.nimbusowners.co.uk

www.storebropassion.de

Norman Appreciation Society

Sunseeker Owners Club

www.normanboats.co.uk

sunseekerownersclub.com

Princess Owners Club

Viking Owners Club

princessownersclub.com

www.vikingowners.org.uk

Regal Owners Forum

Warrior Boats Owners Club

www.warriorboatsownersclub.co.uk

www.regalownersforum.com

Relcraft Boaters Group www.relcraftboatersgroup.co.uk

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

Rodman Owners Club

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Sea Ray Owners Club

www.clubsearay.com

1988 Cruisers Int. 224

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Single Volvo AQ151 146hp petrol engine. Four berth

£12,000 01684 593111 email address

113

Classified

Two Seasure Folding Bikes

Very good condition, as only used a couple of times and stored in original carry bags and boxes. 6 gears, suspension for soft ride, 16inch wheels. Collection only from Reading area.

£150 ONO the pair 07585 963701

Motorboat Owner Affordable practical boating

1978 Fairline Mirage

1995 Fairline Squadron 43

Twin petrol Volvo AQ140A engines.

Spacious river and coastal cruiser, offering 4-5 berths with seperate forward cabin. Inverter, davits, new oven and fridge, BSS until 2020

Twin Volvo Penta TAMD 72P 430hp diesels. Spacious flybridge cruiser with two cabins, 4-6 berths. Bow and stern thrusters, heating, teak decks.

£23,000

£134,950

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114

October 2018

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North Devon sunset

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