FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINE
Motorboat SEPTEMBER 2020
Owner Affordable practical boating
BOAT TEST
AMP 8.4 Destination Guide Project Fairline Vixen l Seamaster 27 l Cruising Denmark
SOUTHWOLD
Welcome to the September 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
This month, having received a press release from Benetti about their new ‘giga yacht’ Luminosity, I have been pondering just when does a super yacht become a mega yacht, a mega yacht become a giga yacht and what exactly comes after a giga yacht? Then I realised that these are questions that we can leave to other publications while we get down to the more serious business of looking
Editor, Neale Byart 01268 922992 neale@motorboatowner.co.uk Associate Editor, Claire Frew 01268 922993 claire@motorboatowner.co.uk
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September 2020
welcome aboard
©NFulciniti/Benetti
Yours for €225m. Luminocity comes with 12 guest cabins and a 400,000l fuel tank
at boats that do not require you to be a Russian Oligarch to have any chance of owning. This month we have taken a look at what must be one of the most affordable family cruisers you can buy. The Seamaster 27 may be a bit long in the tooth, but there are some great examples of this boat still out there providing sterling service all over the country. And don’t dismiss them as pure river boats
either. While many may lead a quiet life inland, they are still very capable of an occasional foray in sheltered coastal waters and you could buy one, maybe even two, for the same money that ‘Luminosity’s owner will pay for one visitor’s night in Monaco during F1 week. Our main boat test this month may not be quite as affordable as a Seamaster, some may even say it’s a bit expensive, but the AMP 8.4 is a great boat and more than delivers on value. If the circa £200k asking price stings a bit, just remember that poor owner of Luminosity again. Not only will they have to dig deep to find the €225m asking price, they will also have to part with the equivalent of one AMP 8.4 every time they fill their fuel tank, and I bet it’s nowhere near as much fun to drive. Whether you aspire to a Seamaster 27, or something akin to Luminocity, we are all in it for the same reason, enjoyment and relaxation on the water, and that comes as standard with whatever boat you own.
Sub Editor, Pam Born Production Editor, John Frew
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Contributors: Simon Everett, Paul Killick, Eddie Perkins, Roger Matthews, Peter Pitcher
Cover photo: AMP 8.4 at Quarry Beach, Abersoch by Neville Williams Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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UK DEBUT See the 200 Sport at Southampton BOATS2020
CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2020
REGULARS
PRACTICAL
NEWS page 6 INBOX page 18 CUTTING EDGE page 32 Q&A page 58 TESTED page 74
t Forward cabin refi
PROJECT
EDDIE PERKINS
Covering
page 64 Cruising
Perkins Broom 30 owner Eddie forward cabin decided to treat his his buying to a refit. He recounts project the journey and tackling
Denmark
BEFORE
p34
page 74 Tested
PRACTICAL
USS Ultra Tef-Gel
34
AFTER
the bunk
side pane ls. This
job
required on the a stap back and ler, cont The rest act adhe front read sive, spra primed of the woodwo y for refit y glue ting. where and viny wood I had to rk was prep good surf l and ared ace that varnish. given four go back to bare , vinyl, would coats of and not dam Flag yach adhesiv that could Meanwh age be e t covering ile, at hom of viny overspray, if cleaned of the e, I any l was set the pan necessar vinyl. set abo so it cou els withtohad up on Scotland Firstfrom ut Norfolk a bench y. The roll ld foam job was be oldmoved H aving rolle table, foam backed adhesiv at one down to rem d back to move end, e from ove side up. out onto the and we was laid for work, cleadecided the old . Partallofof the work n the surf approached onto the Then the carp the retirement as et mar first pan south panels ace. Und lining vinyl, ked free to help el a 2-in get emortgage to wer Formwas still cove er the You can with French the plan carpet, ica lam fulfilling andwith chalk andch border pleasantred a e. inat for 60 grit ground easier give yourself This wasthis lay the cut out. a to to han a sandplan The edge give the adh . For retirement minimu dling but 2 larger bord ed with esiv er for required, inch is m. The e trim a boate awas all roun s wer succeed panel to abo n med by goo grip. d Thedhouse mark its run the chal ut the house.abo theand prevent andoh, k arou ut 4mm cornaers Once position nd the rounand we found new vinythe Form soon wasica workbenthat’s done put . cutting ded to2015 three tres l. I setmoved through in September up a larg coat it ch and usin the panel on g a rolle with con boat ethe the for athe shee hunt curtain tles, cove t r vers next, of so, tact or red this plyhours ion is brush adhesiv to pad on withhappy of heav it out and e. long way more cost on. Many an old y plastic was effective The liquid thentrawling the put a shee over ease of but you can and were Moto thespent applicat use a spra goes a rboa top and t Own to give sales all-t an adh er © Digita boatyards a esive desiion. Make sure y type for l Marin e Media needs September 2020 Ltd to be heat gned for head you use linin resistant and have g, as it good 39
Broom 30 forward cabin refit
page 76 Project Boat
Fairline Vixen
page 84 Hooked
Fishing for Prawns
p64 p44 SOUTHWOLD Destination Guide
p22
BOAT TEST
p88
Seamaster 27
CLASSIC CRUISER GUIDE
AMP 8.4
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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NEWS
BOATS2020 Preview In the wake of this year’s cancelled Southampton International Boat Show, its organisers, British Marine, are getting ready to host a replacement, smaller scale event at Mayflower Park in Southampton over the same September dates, 11th20th. BOATS2020 will be an outdoor and on the water event showcasing boats and equipment, and British Marine say safety and meeting COVID-19 secure requirements has been its ‘number one priority’. The 10-day event is set to
showcase over 90 boats on a purposebuilt marina and 60 exhibitors on shore. A ‘carefully designed show layout’ sees a main entrance at the eastern end of the park, close to the Red Funnel ferry terminal, and, following the COVID-19 guidelines, British Marine state that there will be ‘no crowd gathering attractions’, making ‘BOATS2020 the perfect event for serious boaters and buyers’. Tickets have staggered entry times of 10am, 11am and 12pm and are now available online priced
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September 2020
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at £12.50 per person (note, concessionary rates and free tickets for children are not available). At the time of writing the event had 77 confirmed exhibitors, including the British motorboat brands, Princess Yachts, Fairline and Sunseeker International, as well as international brands such as XO Boats, Saxdor, Bavaria, Sealine and Cranchi. There will be the UK debut of the Fairline F//Line 33 and Sunseeker is set to exhibit its largest model at Southampton Smaller for Covid safety. BOATS2020 will occupy to date, the 95 Yacht. the waterfront Mayflower Park in Southampton Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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NEWS Hammersmith Bridge closure Boat owners returning from their cruising foreys, departing or arriving through London on the tidal River Thames were faced with a bit of a bombshell this summer. For safety concerns linked to the hot weather during August, Hammersmith Bridge was closed to all traffic, including vessels on the river. According to the navigational authority, the Port of London Authority (PLA), following expert technical advice, Hammersmith & Fulham Council closed the bridge on 13th August, as it posed a ‘significant risk to vessels and persons passing underneath the structure’. In the light of the council’s decision, the PLA has established a 15-metre exclusion zone either side of the bridge and ‘passage under the bridge is not permitted until further notice’. It is a development that has had an immediate knock-on effect on both Thames leisure boaters and commercial businesses, such as river trip boats, and also road traffic in London. The distinctively ornate, green-coloured Victorian suspension bridge was completed in 1887 and crosses the River Thames in west London, linking Hammersmith on the north side of the river to Richmond upon Thames on the south side. Being a fairly low bridge, it usually poses an interesting navigational challenge for higher air draft vessels travelling up and down this tidal stretch. The PLA state that due to the closure ‘river users will need to seek alternative, safe and legal moorings, until the bridge re-opens’. It added that smaller vessels may be able to use the canal system, between Limehouse to Brentford, known as the London Loop, to circumnavigate the closure. Such waterways require a licence by navigational authority, the Canal and River Trust, and have height and size limitations. For bridge closure queries, the PLA has provided a contact at the Hammersmith & Fulham Council, Highway Structures Manager, Anvar Alizadeh, Telephone 020 87533303, email anvar.alizadeh@lbhf.gov.uk.
Hammersmith Bridge strides the tidal Thames in west London, and restoration and repairs due to ‘structural issues’ are estimated up to £140 million 8
September 2020
If you any have news from your region, please email us at
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Jeanneau NEW BOATS Despite the unprecedented times, the French boat builder is unveiling four new models this autumn. In its Cap Camarat range, it will present two new T-top models, both with clever drop-down cockpit terraces, the 12.5 WA, and the 10.5 WA Série 2. In its Merry Fisher line-up there are Série 2 updates on the 605 and 795 models. New features include a cockpit side door for the 795 and a redesigned roof and windows for the trailerable 605. Also, in celebration of 35 years of its Leader range, Jeanneau is now offering a special white oak finish aboard its Leader 36.
Above the CC 12.5 WA with expanding cockpit. The new Merry Fisher 795 Série 2 and 605
Premier Marinas winter deals South coast marina operator, Premier Marinas, has announced its winter berthing deals at eight of its nine marinas. Prices start from £189 per month for boats up to 8 metres, with 10 metre berths on offer from £221 per month. The six month package runs from 1st October 2020 to 31st March 2021 and includes 28 days storage ashore if required. Monthly packages are also available, November to March 2021. Winter berths are available at Eastbourne, Brighton, Chichester, Southsea, Gosport, Port Solent, Swanwick and Falmouth. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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NEWS Beneteau Antares 11 Fly NEW BOAT The French boat builder, Beneteau has launched a flybridge version of its outboard-powered, 7-berth Antares 11 model. Accessed by a conventional ladder, the flybridge is equipped with a contoured helm console on the starboard side, while to port a dinette converts into a sunpad and there is another sunpad immediately aft. Cruising options for this 36 footer include a flybridge bimini and a solar panel. Other existing features of the Antares 11 include a drop-down cockpit terrace, a wheelhouse side door and a centre side deck gate. Fitted with twin outboards up to a maximum of 300hp, prices start at â‚Ź136,730.
Blackwater power station proposal There has been a nuclear power station the southern entrance of the Blackwater estuary since the 1960s. Decommissioned in 2002, a new project called Bradwell B could see another established in its place. However, local residents and councils are seeking to oppose the plans. The project by Chinese developer CGN, which is currently in its consultation phase, could see the site become a 230-hectre twin reactor power station, generating carbon electricity to power up to four million homes. 10
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The Best Just Got Better.
The new NSSevo3S™ - delivering unprecedented levels of functionality and on board control for a variety of sportfishing and powerboating activities. From a built-in GPS receiver and high performance echo sounder, and support for HALO dome and open array radars, to an industry-leading range of Simrad autopilot systems, all your on water activities are covered.
High Resolution, High Bright, SolarMAX ™ IPS displays with ultra-wide viewing angles.
Built in high-performance echosounder with 1kW CHIRP.
Premium network modules for the ultimate offshore performance - Halo Dome and Open Array Radars, and S5100 Sportfishing Echosounder.
Direct audio, autopilot and engine connection and control.
www.simrad-yachting.com ®Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off, and ™ common law marks. Visit www.navico.com/intellectual-property to review the global trademark rights for Navico Holding AS.
NEWS Marine chandlery clearance event In the absence of this year’s Southampton Boat Show, the Hampshire-based chandlery company, You Boat, is hosting a clearance event at its warehouse. Due to be held at the Dean Estate in Fareham, the You Boat Show is an outdoor, socially distanced 3-day event being held on the 4th-6th September (9am-6pm). It is free to enter but visitors will need to pre-register by emailing events@youboatmarine.com to receive a ticket. The company, Boatbreakers will also be taking part in the event, and will have a large number of new, recycled and used boat parts on offer.
DIARY DATES BOATS2020 11th-20th September Ocean Village Boat Show 11th-20th September Devon Autumn Boat Jumble 12th September Solent Boat Jumble 4th October Kent Boat Jumble 11th October Suffolk Boat Jumble 18th October Boot & Fun Berlin 18th-22nd November
Click any of the above for more info
No mooring at Beale Park
No mooring signs have been erected at a popular mooring spot on the River Thames and boaters are up in arms. Also a popular fishing spot, the 30-acre wildlife park site nestles beside the Thames at Pangbourne. The reasoning for the move is unclear. However, a surge in riverfront daytrippers and the discovery of rubbish and human waste is thought to be a cause. Motorboat Owner is seeking clarification.
0800 310 2100
Marine Electronics in stock for immediate dispatch.
Chargers - Inverters - Galvanic Isolators - Fuses Fuse holders - Crossover switches - Cable Sets - Batteries
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sales@mdsbattery.co.uk
September 2020
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Cannes canned Despite a ‘rigorous sanitary plan with a series of additional health and safety measures’ for the coronavirus pandemic, city and health authorities have cancelled the French boat show, Cannes Yachting Festival. The decision was made just weeks before the popular European show was due to open on the 8th September. It was set to showcase in the region of 400 boats, and it is rumoured that several European motorboat brands were already on route to set up. The show is now set to return in September next year, 7th-12th. See www.cannesyachtingfestival.com
Fatal RIB incident Hampshire Police is working closely with the Coastguard and Marine Accident Investigation Branch following a RIB collision with a buoy in Southampton Water, near Netley, on the morning 22nd August. Twelve people who were onboard the charter RIB were subsequently taken to hospital. One of the passengers, a 15-year-old girl, was pronounced dead in hospital. Police are urging witnesses to come forward with any information or footage of the incident. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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NEWS Regal 36 XO/Grand Coupe NEW BOATS Celebrating its 50th anniversary, American boat builder, Regal is the latest brand to launch into the trending ‘express cruiser’ market, adding two new 37ft models to its range, the 36 XO and 36 Grande Coupe. They have been designed as ‘premier crossovers’, combining overnighting and day boating, and built to harness the outdoors. Both are four-berth hardtops with bowrider-style forward seating areas, which are accessed by an offset, walk-through windscreen. Inside, an open plan cabin area provides a double forward master berth, while a mid cabin seating area converts into a second double. Other features include a wheelhouse sunroof, adaptable cockpit seating and saloon galley, with an optional patio door available. The 36 XO is powered by twin 350-425hp outboards, while the 36 Grande Coupe is powered by twin 300-350hp V8 petrol sterndrives.
Solent forts for sale Three Solent forts that were built to protect Portsmouth from seaborne attack are to be sold. Their current owner, Clarenco LLP, is looking for offers in excess of £9m for the three 19th century forts, two of which have already been renovated into boutique hotel retreats, offering suites, function rooms and restaurants. Spitbank Fort pictured and No Man’s Fort are both available for £4.25m each, while the third, Horse Sand Fort, which is in its original state, is available for offers in the region of £750k.
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September 2020
New 2020 - Finnmaster R6 and T6
Ready for Adventure
UK DEBUT- See the R6 & T6 at Southampton BOATS2020 www.f innmaster.f i
NEWS Broads Stalham Staithe mooring A regeneration project on the Broads has given a new lease of life to the small waterside historical settlement to the south of Stalham, with a new 24-hour free mooring, opened during August. Following much needed repairs to the crumbling parts of the Staithe in 2018, it has undergone a refurbishment thanks to a collaborative project between the Broads Authority, Norfolk County Council and Stalham Town Council. Features include a new footpath, mooring posts, safety ladders and other necessary safety features for the site to operate as a 24-hour mooring location. Once the site of a bygone wherry trading hub, the new mooring has space for 6 to 8 vessels and is a fiveminute walk from the town centre’s shops, pub and other amenities.
Bembridge upgrades In the changed environment of social distancing, many harbours have been adapting to do things differently. At the Solent haven of Bembridge Harbour, the remodelling of its Duver visitors’ pontoon is the result. Historically, visiting boats rafted out on one long pontoon. However, since 2015 and the installation of a limited number of finger berths, the harbour authority has invested in another 36 finger pontoons, offering 72 berths. Works were due to be completed by the beginning of August, with a second phase of fingers on the inside of the main pontoon, envisaged as drying berths, scheduled for autumn 2020. A harbour authority-owned dredger has also been re-establishing water depths in the harbour and marina.
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September 2020
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XO DSCVR NEW BOAT The Finnish aluminum boat brand, XO Boats, has launched a second model in its new 260 range. The new 8-metre XO DSCVR has been designed for active use and watersports, but also for the ‘ultimate driving experience in changing weather conditions’. It is a T-topped bowrider which is capable of 50 knots and powered by a single 225-400hp Mercury outboard. The model will be making its UK debut at the BOATS2020 show where it will be exhibited by UK dealer, Ideal Boat. It is priced from £83,808.
Red diesel consultation
British Marine and the Royal Yachting Association have once again urged boaters to have their say on the proposed changes to the red diesel entitlement, through the consultation ‘Reforms to the tax treatment of red diesel and other rebated fuels’. HMRC intends to remove the entitlement for private pleasure craft to use red diesel for the purposes of propulsion only, and this measure is set to come into force from April 2022. British Marine has also created its own survey here. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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INBOX
@
Boat share schemes I’m loving your mag as always, since the very first edition. Is there an edition which covers boat clubs and shared use of a fleet of boats, such as British Boat Club or Trafalgar? In these new times where incomes have been cut, these might be an option for some people to continue boating and some hints of what is good and bad about the systems would be great. If it has already been covered, please could you let me know how I can read it? I have tried the search function. Thanks very much and carry on the great work. Robin Barclay Editor comments: Hello Robin, this is a timely email. We haven’t covered the subject in any great detail before, but have scheduled a visit to one such club for next month, so watch this space.
Guernsey ghost town Dear team, great to see the magazine up and running again. Where as some areas of the UK are being swamped after lockdown, the Solent especially, Guernsey has become a bit of a ghost town. It is due to our lockdown, which is unlikely to open us to any visitors before September. I took this photo today (23rd July) to illustrate the fact. As you are probably aware life here is now, and has been for some time, back to normal. But the lack of visiting boats and cruise ships is hurting local business and the sooner we can get on top of the Covid situation in the UK and in Europe the better. Best wishes and stay safe. Ian Ruskin Editor comments: I’ll second that. I normally make at least one visit to your lovely island every year and can’t wait until I can get back over. Essex mud is great, but I miss the Guernsey granite. 18
September 2020
email:
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
BACK
IN
TIME
In 1988 Birchwood introduced a sterndrive-powered sportscruiser, the SD34 and the flybridge TS34 followed a year later.
Random revs
A great magazine, as ever. With regards to the question on the Peugeot diesel last month, I suffered the same problem a number of years back on a Peugeot diesel engined car. Now it may be that the marinised version has a different set up but on the car the fuel filter housing had a built in pump so the system could be primed after a filter change. In my case the diaphragm in this pump had perished and whilst there was no outward sign of a diesel leak, when the engine ran air was drawn into the fuel system causing the fluctuating revs. I hope this is of use. Haydn Rees Editor comments: Hi Haydn, thanks for writing in. That’s a useful pointer and I have passed it on to the author of the original query. I’ve not heard back yet, but hopefully they are some way to getting the problem fixed. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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INBOX
@
Budget burglar alarm I thought readers might be interested in my efforts to tackle the thorny problem of security. For years I have had concerns about security on my boat. You have, in the past, produced a good report about an alarm system, Boat Warden (September 2015 issue), but this is a comprehensive system which I don’t really need. I don’t need to turn on the heating, The CPVAN Motion Sensor the lights or the fridge remotely, all I wanted was a Alarm is available system that made a lot of noise if someone tried to on Amazon for get into my boat. I put my concerns onto the back £25.99 burner until, one day, I arrived at my boat to be told by my neighbour that two boats, including his, had been broken into the night before. His outboard, fishing gear and radio had been stolen. To do this, his door was jemmied open causing considerable damage. This made my quest for an alarm immediate. After some internet trawling, I came up with the CPvan Motion detector. I ordered one and within 5 minutes of taking the kit down to the boat it was all up and running. It seems to do the trick brilliantly. As soon as there is an entry to the cabin a loud siren goes off. It does not have the fancy gismos of contacting me via mobile or recording the intruder, but it causes enough noise to alert others in the immediate vicinity. For a cheap solution this cannot be bad. I have ordered two other detectors and am going to put one in the lazarette (impossible to get a replacement lock) and one below the dashboard of the flybridge to protect the electronics there. These can all be programmed to respond to the same remote controller and I think I shall then sleep happier. I also mounted a battery-operated motion sensor light in the cockpit pointing at the doors so that it lights up the cockpit should anybody approach the entrance doors. Cost of the alarm and intruder light, £40. Graham Editor comments: I like our Boat Warden system, but for a more cost effective solution, I think you have hit the nail on the head. Of course, nothing will stop a determined criminal, but anything that makes their life a little bit harder can only be a good thing. If any other readers have any cost effective solutions, for security or anything else, we would love to hear about them. 20
September 2020
email:
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Synthetic deck
After seeing your feature last month on synthetic teak, I thought I would send some photos of our Quicksilver 645 Cruiser. We had SeaDek fitted to the whole boat last summer and completely transformed the look of the boat, we love it. Jason Hazell Editor comments: Thanks Jason, very nice. The turquoise/grey looks superb.
Budget deck complete After fitting foam decking to the flybridge (August issue), I finally completed the cockpit of my Bayliner 2556. I used two and a half rolls for the cockpit, and five rolls in total for the whole boat (flybridge, cockpit and bathing platform), working out at £250 for the job, and I’m really pleased with it. Jamie Banner Editor comments: A fantastic makeover for very little cost. Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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AMP 8.4
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BOAT TEST
Length (LOA): 8.37m / 27ft 6in Beam: 2.5m / 8ft 2in Displacement: 1,450kg (ex engine) Fuel capacity: 225 litres (option 310 litres) Engine as tested: 1 x 350hp Mercury Verado Pro Other engine options: 1 x 200-400hp outboard RCD category: B Price from £187,200 Price as tested £228,498
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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W
ould you like wheels with your RIB order? The question sounds almost as strange coming from your boat dealer as it would if said by the waiting staff of your favourite American diner. In truth there is a niche market out there for RIBs with wheels. Amphibious doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem like quite the right word for them, after all they are first and foremost an aquatic machine, but boats with the ability to haul themselves up a beach or slipway are an actual thing. But are they a serious prospect, or merely a gimmick that gives the owner almost unbeatable bragging rights?
For those of us used to marina hopping, and an existence where being tied to a pontoon is the only way of leaving your boat, RIBs like the AMP 8.4 may seem a bit over the top. But if you put aside your current boat usage pattern and think of places like the Channel Islands, the Isles of Scilly, some of the more remote beaches of Devon, Cornwall, Wales or Scotland, where an almost deserted sandy beach is yours for the taking, if only you had an easy way of accessing it, then the 8.4 and its siblings make a lot of sense and could, quite literally, transform your family boating. The 8.4 that we have tested is the
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“New discoveries. Travelling by tube will never be the same again” middle boat of a three model range that spans 7.1m to 9.8m. The boats are built in Dubai with all aspects from the hull, tubes, materials and metalwork produced in-house. As you can imagine, the boats are also supplied for military and special service applications. Step onboard and you might initially think that the AMP is just another RIB. Looking forward from the helm, there are no obvious clues as to the boat’s special features, with the double bow wheel tucked below the forward tube. Look behind you, however, and you cannot fail to notice a pair of chunky, off-road style Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
tyres sticking up either side of the engine. Some extra controls on the helm are the only other giveaway, with the rest of the mechanicals all being hidden out of sight. The layout of the AMP 8.4 is really quite standard. At the bow there is an optional U-shaped seating area that can be infilled to create a forward sunpad, or used in conjunction with a removable table as a general socialising area. There are storage areas beneath these seats, with access hatches on the inboard uprights of the two side benches and a further, top accessible, locker right in the bow. The latter is perfectly designed to take your
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ground tackle and has a purpose-built cut-out to allow the anchor rode to pass through while leaving the hatch lid closed. Also up in the bow there is a very sturdy samson post and, on top of the tube right at the bow, a moulded step with non-slip topping that allows easy and safe access on and off the boat over the front. Moving aft, the central helm position offers walk-around access down both sides and an optional T-top overhead. A moulding in front of the helm provides an additional forward facing seat for those flatter, drier passages, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most important role is to house the engine and hydraulic controls for the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s onshore
propulsion system. The engine under here is a 37hp, 1.0 litre Briggs and Stratton air-cooled engine with electronic fuel injection that draws its fuel from the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main tank. The attached hydraulics deliver all-wheel drive with diff lock and auto braking. Steering is done by the wheel at the helm, with a separate helm control to select forward and reverse gears. A small panel, also at the helm, offers one-touch controls to start and stop this engine, as well as lower and raise the wheels and adjust your on-land speed. Standing behind the helm console, things are pretty straightforward, extra controls aside. You have room for a decent sized
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multi-function display, a separate screen for your engine instrumentation and a VHF set, all while leaving enough space for additional items such as a stereo or phone holder, as per our test model. Another option installed on our test boat was a bow camera, viewed through the Garmin MFD, that displayed a view of the otherwise unseen forward wheel, a useful feature for visual confirmation that it has docked or deployed. The 8.4 comes with a choice of three windscreens, of varying heights. Our boat was fitted with the tallest, but you can also opt for a half height or low screen. The tall screen combines well with the T-top, but Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
if you forego this, the mid height screen, aesthetically at least, seems like the right option. The model we tested was fitted with a pair of side-by-side Ullman shock absorbing seats. Standard seats are fixed to a GRP moulding that offers storage below. Behind the helm seats, the 8.4 comes with a full-width transom seat, wide enough for three, or even four at a pinch. Below this, the gas strutted section lifts to provide access to bilge storage as well as some of the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical equipment. Overhead, a standard A-frame provides the ability to mount rod holders, wakeboard brackets and other additional equipment. With the
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PERFORMANCE As tested 80% fuel, 2 crew, Force 4 * Range with optional twin 155-litre fuel tanks
RPM
T-top option, much of this kit can also be mounted to this. The T-top, A-frame, windscreen surround and samson post are all available in either a black powder coated finish, as shown in the pictures, or stainless steel. Other options include a choice of gelcoat and tube colours, and even a hull made from aluminium rather than GRP. Either side of the engine there is a small bathing platform, topped with soft foam decking, although access to and from the water on our test boat was via a ladder over the side and the tube. Hypalon tubes are standard fit, as are the double rubbing strakes that adorn the full length on each side. Of course, with all this extra complex equipment onboard, you might be concerned about its durability, and cost
630 (idle) 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000
Knots
LPH
GPH
MPG
3.5 4.3 6.4 7.5 8.9 9.6 12.2 17.3 24.5 34.3 38.9 41.7
3.2 5.9 9.1 14.1 24.1 32.7 43.2 54.1 66.4 85.5 109.6 141.8
0.7 1.3 2.0 3.1 5.3 7.2 9.5 11.9 14.6 18.8 24.1 31.2
5.00 3.31 3.20 2.42 1.68 1.33 1.28 1.45 1.68 1.82 1.61 1.37
Range* (nm)
341 226 218 165 114 91 87 99 114 124 110 93
should it need attention. Well, fear not. The Briggs and Stratton engine comes with a three-year warranty, while the hydraulic drive system comes with five yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s peace of mind to match the warranty typically offered on most new outboards. Underway The first thing I noticed when putting the boat through its paces, was just how solid and well-built it felt. With all the
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The supercharged 350hp Mercury will propel the AMP 8.4 to speeds of over 40 knots. The test boat had the optional twin 155-litre fuel tanks
“This is no one-trick pony. Mercury power and a solid build provides agile, grippy, exciting performance” extra kit and appendages onboard, you might expect a few rattles or vibrations, especially in the slightly choppy conditions we were out in, but there were none. You might also expect all that extra weight to incur some sluggishness to the performance, but again, no. I know we had 350hp on the transom, but pinning the throttle still delivered surprisingly quick acceleration, and the power delivery from the supercharged Mercury unit is phenomenal. Heading just a little offshore, and leaving the shelter of the bay behind, the swell and waves picked up and the AMP continued to impress. It just carried on and ploughed, completely unfazed, through the bigger seas without even needing to back off the throttle. The AMP’s controls are precise and wellMotorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
balanced, and the hull delivers agility that belies its size and weight, allowing you to throw it around and have some serious fun. It turns nice and tight, without losing any grip or control, but it does have a tendency to attain some quite high lean angles in really tight turns, something that initially catches you out but, once you get used to it, just adds to the excitement of the ride. The helm is very protected behind its large screen, which is good as occasionally the front wheel will catch a wave and throw up some unexpected spray. The driving position is excellent, with driver and navigator comfort being increased by the addition of the optional shock absorbing seats, which certainly do help take any harshness out of any potentially lumpy ride. Trying out the
51
other seating positions on the boat proved what I suspected, the hull is already doing most of the work in providing a smooth passage, but when it comes to comfort you can never have too much so, despite their cost, the seats are a worthwhile option to consider when it comes to specifying your own AMP. At the end of any boat test we usually just moor the boat back up on a pontoon, or perhaps help recover it onto its trailer, before heading home. Of course, the AMP is no ordinary boat, and the test had no ordinary ending. As we came back into harbour we motored towards the slipway. With wheels down, and auxiliary engine started we drove up the slipway, continued across the car park, left the car park and drove back to the dealer’s premises. I only wished that the car park had had an ANPR system so that I could imagine the faces of the fine issuing department wondering how to tackle this one. Of course, the AMP is not road legal, so any ‘out-of-the-water’ use has to be away from public roads, and the top speed on land is not going to win you any land speed records, but the ability to do so opens up a world of possibilities that I hadn’t even thought about before. Now, whenever I see an appropriate opportunity, I think of the AMP and just wish the boat under me could perform such a feat. The strange thing is, now
The bow can be a equipped as a nice social space
that I have experienced it, I see these opportunities everywhere. Once on dry land, the wheels can be partially lowered to a point that allows easy access on and off the boat while keeping the hull clear of the ground and any potential damage. You can, of course, also raise the wheels completely and leave the boat’s hull resting on the ground, if it is soft sand or suchlike. I did take some video of the sea to land transition from the boat. Unfortunately my phone was not quite as amphibious as the boat and the footage was later lost to the bottom of a river. We do, however, have some footage taken from shore side, which can be seen HERE. Conclusion Setting out to test the AMP 8.4, I honestly expected it to be a bit of a gimmick; a compromised RIB and a one-trick pony with the ability to show off to
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the beachgoers and landlubbers, but I was wrong. As a boat, the 8.4 is entirely uncompromised, a fantastic sea boat that feels solid, composed, offers brilliant performance and is, in so many ways, a better RIB than many others that only have to operate on one medium. Yes it is expensive, but you are getting a lot of highly sophisticated additional kit, and that doesn’t come cheap. You also have to put the price into context with the AMP’s contempories, where it stacks up well. If your sole reason for wanting a boat like the AMP 8.4 is for a bit of one-upmanship over your boaty friends or to impress the shoreside throng, and you have pockets deep enough, that’s a perfectly good reason
No compromises here. The 8.4 is a great all rounder
to buy one, and I can assure you that you won’t be disappointed. If, however, you exist in a world where a boat that can emerge from the sea and make its own way up the beach is a useful, or even necessary, feature, then the AMP range has absolutely got to be the way forward, and it doesn’t mean that you can’t still show off, just a little.
ENQUIRIES: Ideal Boat 01758 703013 www.idealboat.com YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Iguana Original
Sealegs 9.0m Hydrasol
Gibbs Humdinga
LOA: 9.2m Beam: 3.12m Displacement: 3,000kg Enquiries: Iguana Yachts +33 662 576 162 www.iguana-yachts.com
LOA: 9.15m Beam: 3.13m Displacement: 2,240kg Enquiries: Salterns Marina Ltd 01202 707222 www.salterns.co.uk
LOA: 7.0 m Beam: 2.3m Displacement: 3,000kg Enquiries: Gibbs Amphibians 02476 388828 www.gibbsamphbians.com
The Iguana range use tracks mounted inside the hull, rather than wheels, for its land-based adventures.
PRICE from £405,000
Sealegs offer a range of wheeled RIBs from 6.1 to 12m. This 9 metre can be powered by single or twin outboards up to 400hp.
PRICE from £199,000
Want an amphibian that’s more shore orientated? The Gibbs Humdinga can reach 80mph on the road and 30mph on water.
PRICE circa £375,000
> NEXT MONTH Beneteau Swift Trawler 41 Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
53
PRACTICAL
PROJECT
Forward cabin refit
Broom 30 owner Eddie Perkins decided to treat his forward cabin to a refit. He recounts his buying journey and tackling the project BEFORE
AFTER
EDDIE PERKINS
H aving moved from Norfolk to Scotland
for work, we decided to move back down south as retirement approached. Part of the plan was to get mortgage free to help lay the ground for a pleasant and fulfilling retirement. For this plan to succeed a boat was required, oh, and a house. The house was soon found and we moved in September 2015 so, next, the hunt for a boat was on. Many happy hours were spent trawling the boatyards and sales all-
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September 2020
Cabin wood window side linings were showing signs of rot from previous leaks. Eddie stripped the forward cabin’s V-berth, with its old musty carpet linings, back to its shell
round the Norfolk Broads, and we fine tuned our wish list with each viewing. Our budget was not huge, and I needed a boat I could handle on my own, and we soon started to focus on the Broom 30. I’ve lost count of how many we looked at, probably all the ones on sale in the area at the time, and a few that were not, and we narrowed it down to White Swan near Burgh St Peters, and Jewel of the Nial in Wroxham. There were pros and cons for each of them, but the latter won in the end and we brought her from Wroxham to our home mooring in St. Olaves in November 2015. We quickly agreed that the name had to go, and after a lot of discussion, with no agreement, we reverted to her earlier name of Melody. Then, after a good compound, polish, tidy up and a service it was back in the water in late March 2016. We had some good use of her during that season, but a steady list of ‘good to have’ and ‘must do’ began to grow. New cushions for the berths was the first on the list, which improved living conditions
tremendously. We had these made up by Brooms, the old ones were really past their best, they were 40 years old. Then, over the winter of 2016/17, I set about refurbishing the aft cabin. The following year I moved on to the galley and saloon so this year it was time to tackle the forward cabin. At some time in the past the cabins had been lined with a sort of cream coloured carpet. This was now in poor condition, musty smelling and peeling away in places, so it had to go. In addition, there were some areas of water damage and rot in the lining around the windows and the varnish was in very poor condition. This is all fairly typical for these boats and I think we only saw one with the lining in reasonably good condition when we were boat hunting. Although replacing the damaged woodwork felt like a daunting task, in reality it was quite straight forward and well within the reach of most people with DIY skills. I had previously completely relined a Sealine 305, so I’ve a good idea of fitting
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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PRACTICAL
the vinyl lining and, more importantly, a stock of foam-backed vinyl and the necessary glues and tools. I did need some extra vinyl and contacted Hawke House Marine who sent me a set of samples so I could match up the colour and order more. During the earlier work I had gained a good understanding in how Broom had put the boat together, so it was fairly straight forward to work out how to strip the linings out. This took all of two hours to achieve as everything was fixed in place with screws. Some of these had to be carefully removed as they were not stainless and had rusted. When I unscrewed the shelves above the bunks some of the screws were not gripping the lining at all, so I made a mental note to add a pad behind and use longer screws. The bulkhead panels were a very snug fit, how the boat builders manage to work out the shapes to such close tolerances is beyond me. They needed to be eased all the way round, as once the vinyl is wrapped around the edges and stapled on the back they would be too big to go back in. These panels would only come
Eddie carefully painted out and brightened up behind the scenes with Flag bilge paint
out one way, and would need to be put back the same way, as they were too long to manoeuvre once in the cabin. The hull was surprisingly dirty, but a couple of hours with hot water, degreaser and elbow grease got them looking better. Once dry I gave them a coat of Flag bilge paint, which is a great product. The bilges were really bad. It looked like there had been engine oil and a significant amount of water in
The mucky bilges also received a clean and very satisfying lick of paint. Inset, Flag bilge paint 36
September 2020
Cardboard templates were used to shape wooden panels to fill voids under the bunks for storage
there at some time. I gave them a soaking of diluted No Nonsense Heavy Duty Degreaser from Screwfix and left them to soak for a while. Then, with plenty of hot water, rubber gloves, assorted scrubbing brushes and a dose of attitude from me, the grease came off almost disappointingly easy. The bilges then got a coat of paint and, the following day I applied another coat all over. The resultant clean and sweet smelling hull and bilges is a joy to behold. Under the bunks, at the aft end, there was a void between the drawer bulkhead and heads to starboard and bunk headboard to port, which would be a good storage area for engine oil and shorepower cables. All that was needed was a shelf. I made a cardboard template and cut two shelves slightly oversize and fettled them for a good fit. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the top of the template fitted the portside and the bottom fitted starboard so they were virtually mirror images. There were also low bulkheads in the forward locker between the bunks, with a void below, allowing items stowed in the locker to fall into the bilges. Lids were made using the same method to stop any further losses. Whilst removing the bunk side panels I noticed that some of the fixings had pulled out of the battens,
which were thin softwood, so I glued hardwood strips to the back of the battens for a better fix. I used an assortment of clamps and wedges to hold them in place whilst the glue set overnight. The next task was to remove the damaged lining around the starboard window. It was only the bottom aft part that was damaged so, rather than taking the whole panel out, which would have meant removing the window, I cut it at the forward end in line with the bottom of the window and just replaced the bottom part. I used a vibrating saw with a fine tooth blade to make the cut. As the rot in the aft end was quite extensive I would have struggled to get an accurate template for the replacement ply so I needed to add another piece of ply with double
Additional battens were glued into position ready to take the recovered bunk panels
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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PRACTICAL
The inner window frames were removed to allow access to the wood linings ready for replacement
sided tape to give the correct profile of the damaged area. First the panel under the side deck was removed, it was simply screwed in place, the side panel was then carefully pulled away from the window. Once removed I could see that the panel had been fixed in place with contact adhesive as well as screws around the window. The area was scraped back and cleaned ready for refitting the new panel.
The original lining is 6mm tiger stripe Sapele, which is available at around ÂŁ225 a sheet plus delivery. I found this difficult to justify so I bought a sheet of 6mm hardwood ply for around ÂŁ10, which I would stain to match the other linings. Using the original as a template the new panel was marked out and cut to size with the forward end bevelled to fit. It was then stained and given a coat of sealer varnish
The old wood linings where taken off to be replicated in hardwood, to be varnished at a later stage 38
September 2020
Covering the bunk side panels. This job required a stapler, contact adhesive, spray glue and vinyl
on the back and front ready for refitting. The rest of the woodwork was prepared, primed where I had to go back to bare wood and given four coats of Flag yacht varnish. Meanwhile, at home, I had set about covering the panels with foam backed vinyl. First job was to remove all of the old adhesive from the old carpet lining and clean the surface. Under the carpet, the panels were still covered with a Formica laminate. This was sanded with 60 grit to give the adhesive a good grip. The edges were trimmed by about 4mm all round and the corners rounded to prevent the Formica cutting through the new vinyl. I set up a large sheet of ply on three trestles, covered this with an old curtain to pad it out and then put a sheet of heavy plastic over the top to give a
good surface that would not damage the vinyl, and that could be cleaned of any adhesive overspray, if necessary. The roll of vinyl was set up on a bench at one end, so it could be rolled out onto the work table, foam side up. Then the first panel was laid onto the vinyl, a 2-inch border marked with French chalk and cut out. You can give yourself a larger border for easier handling but 2 inch is about the minimum. Then run the chalk around the panel to mark its position. Once thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done put the panel on the workbench and using a roller or brush coat it with contact adhesive. The liquid version is more cost effective and goes a long way but you can use a spray type for ease of application. Make sure you use an adhesive designed for headlining, as it needs to be heat resistant and have good
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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PRACTICAL
Excess fabric was trimmed off with a rotary cutter and detail button holes were added to the panels
ageing properties. Next, spray evenly over the foam backing of the vinyl with contact adhesive, keeping inside the panel border mark. Leave it for about three minutes and carefully lower the panel onto the foam, making sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s properly aligned. As these panels were curved, to follow the shape of the hull, it was easier with two people. I found the easiest way was to lower the wide end on first then lower the other end into place. I used a couple of pieces of wood and a mud weight to flatten the panel and get a good bond on the lining and left it overnight to dry. When using contact adhesives, keep the brushes or rollers in an air tight container and they will remain soft. A plastic Quality Street type tub works perfectly.
Additional blocks were added to the back ready for refitting the cabin shelves
You have to then score around the edge of the panel, leaving a gap the thickness of the panel, using the blunt end of the scissors (the rounded part) just enough to break through the foam onto the vinyl underneath without marking it. I used a batten as a spacer to ensure this was accurate, and peel off the excess foam around the border. This allows you to get a good foam covered edge that can take up any inaccuracies and fill the gap between adjacent panels whilst getting the vinyl as flat as possible on the back of the panel. Then the fun begins, stapling. I use a pneumatic stapler, as I have a compressor, although a hand or electric stapler will do the job as well. You can use stainless steel staples, but galvanised are usually fine for interior work. Start with the long edges first and begin stapling from the middle of a run. The staples should be about 13mm back from the edge. Use a lot of staples for a good finish, normally spaced around one staple length apart. Scrimping on staples could result in an untidy finish. Keep some tension on the material as you go, not too tight, but just enough to keep the edges firmly pressed up against the panel. Staple all of the edges and leave the corners until last.
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September 2020
The bunk panels were screwed to the battens. Refitting the pleasingly-varnished cabin shelf
For a sharp outside corner, cut out a finger at 45 degrees to the corner and remove the outer triangles. In all of these cuts you need to stop short of the plywood by the same amount as the thickness of the panel. If you have a rounded corner use V cuts around the radius. For an inside corner, cut the vinyl at 45 degrees into the corner. The excess should be trimmed, not too close to the staples. A rotary cutter works great for this and is worth the modest investment but a Stanley knife can also be used. The side panels are fixed to the battens with screws. I prefer button covers, which are ordered with the vinyl and made in matching material. They are screwed through the vinyl, which can be
problematic if the foam backing snags on the drill bit or screw. The solution is to make a hole through the vinyl and foam using a soldering iron. A quick touch makes a neat hole which you can screw through without problems. Refitting the panels to the boat was quite straightforward, as long as you can remember which way they came out. First the underdeck panel was refitted and the battens replaced. The side panels were then manouvered into position. They were snugged down with the screws and button covers snapped into place. The shelves, which had been revarnished, were then refitted and the transformation was amazing, well worth the effort. The replacement side lining was then
The upgraded and varnished wood side linings were re-fitted, followed by the metal window frames Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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PRACTICAL
Additional comfort. Eddie created two padded headboards with button-hole detail for each bunk
refitted. I took the opening window out and clamped the panel in place through the opening and drilled pilot holes through from the outside screw holes using a snug fit drill bit to ensure they were central to the screw holes. I then took the panel off and using a larger bit drilled the holes out to match the window screws.
The panel was then repositioned, checked for fit and then fixed in place using dabs of Sikaflex adhesive and the inside window frames were clamped into place, starting from the middle and working out in both directions. I am very pleased with the match in colour of the panels, it blends in perfectly. The join between them was
Structure complete, the new linings complimented the previously replaced berth cushions perfectly 42
September 2020
A tremendous difference. The finished project, a refreshed, bright and comfortable forward cabin
covered with a trim piece and a matching piece added on the port side. I also made two headboard panels which were the same as the panels but with the addition of a layer of ½ inch foam to pad them out a bit. These were fixed in place with four button screws each.
All in all this was a very satisfying project and I am very pleased with the end result. It was fairly straight forward despite my trepidation with removing side panels, comparatively inexpensive and has made a tremendous difference to the look, feel and comfort of the boat. MBO
The cabin bi-fold door was taken off and re-varnished, as was the step and surrounding surfaces Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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CUTTING Sharrow MX1
Normally these pages showcase kit that is new to the market but, nevertheless, available to buy now. This is a product that you will have to wait for, as it is still in development. The Sharrow range of props are a completely new design of propeller, promising efficiency increases of up to 15%, with improved economy, higher top speeds, lower planing speeds and superior handling. Designed for high performance sterndrives and outboards of between 100hp and 450hp, they should be available to purchase from spring of 2021. Price £TBC www.sharrowmarine.com
Liqui Moly Marine PWC Oil
In September, Liqui Moly will launch a new oil especially formulated for use in four-stroke PWC engines. The fully synthetic 10W40 oil has a special additive package to ensure maximum engine performance and ideal wear protection. The oil is said to meet, or exceed, the requirements and specifications of the leading PWC engine manufacturers and will be available in one and four-litre containers. Price from £12.95 www. danvolt.com
Cruising Almanac
Hot on the heels of the launch of the Reeds Nautical Almanac, The Cruising Association has announced the September availability of their 2021 Cruising Almanac. Produced by Imray and first published over 100 years ago, the CA Almanac covers northwest Europe from the Shetlands and Southern Norway to Gibraltar. Tide tables for 47 standard ports are included in a separate booklet, while the main book includes data for 750 ports, tidal stream data, secondary port tides and chartlets of ports and surrounding areas. Price from £37.50 www.theca.org.uk
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September 2020
the latest boating gear and technology
NMEA Nav light Controller
Entropy Resin Tint Range
Oceanic Systems has launched the world’s first dedicated NMEA2000 nav light controller. The 5971 is designed to control the switching of LED navigation lights and monitor each lamp’s power draw, ensuring any lamp or wiring failure is alerted. For the commercial market, the units will also measure the hours the lamps are on for, to ensure that they can be replaced in line with IMO regulations.
Wessex Resins are distributing a new range of tints to bring a little zest to your latest GRP fabrication project. The range, from US company Entropy Resins, includes soft tints, such as Lavender Hills, Flamingo Pink, Caribbean Blue, as well as vivid tints like Lemon Zest, Berry Red, Pad Green and more. Price £19.99 www.wessex-resins.com
Price £TBC www.osukl.com
Naviwheel
Joystick control has, so far, been an option for larger boats with multiple engines, but this new system from Finland can provide joystick control for the smallest of dayboats, including those with a single engine. The system does not use engine power at all, instead relying on a series of electric powered water jets to deliver precise control via the wheel-shaped joystick. As well as simplified manoeuvres, Naviwheel will hold the boat in position, offer assisted mooring and collision prevention. The system is designed to be incorporated at boat build stage, and comes with an app that turns your phone into a remote second helm control. See Naviwheel in action HERE Price £TBC www.naviwheel.fi Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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Guernsey Southwold Southwold is described as a jewel in the crown of the East Suffolk coast, and we could not agree more. It is a captivating east coast boating gem
T
he Suffolk town of Southwold is a totally unspoilt Georgian seaside resort, with a uniquely traditional harbour that has welcomed seafarers for centuries. Southwold has much to offer the boating fraternity, visitor moorings, a sandy beach and a bustling town with
plenty of sights, shops and attractions. Steeped in history, the town perches on top of a low cliff overlooking the North Sea, with a harbour located on the banks of the River Blyth a mile to the south. It has a pier dating back to the 19th century and a distinctive skyline with a white
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King’s Lynn
Destination
SOUTHWOLD
©EastSuffolkCouncil
Great Yarmouth Lowestoft
SUFFOLK
NORTH SEA
Southwold Aldeburgh
Sonning Windsor
London
ENGLISH CHANNEL
lighthouse and a beach flanked by brightly coloured huts. Famed for its fishing, its harbourfront is studded with seafoodselling sheds, with tourists, boaters and residents lining up each morning to purchase ‘fresh, off the boat’ fare. At lunchtime it is also the perfect place to have a bite in the sunshine, dining on fish and chips, crab and chips, chargrilled lobster, few could resist. Southwold dates back to post ice age prehistoric times, with evidence of early
settlers found in its cliffs. The Romans and Vikings are known to have passed through and, with remnants of two Viking longboats found here, its river harbour was perhaps an early refuge. It wasn’t until 1086 that a religious settlement was recorded here in the Domesday Book, and it grew as a town that was shaped by the sea, and by fishing. Herring was a big industry which saw the town thrive. But Southwold did not quite have a harbour of its own back then. Boats were hauled
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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A bustling town, an unspoilt harbour front and a picturesque beach, Southwold is a lovely gem
out along the sands or sailed into the nearby River Blyth. However, prosperous trading saw rich merchants establishing themselves in the town. Henry VII granted the town independence in 1489, and it is thought that this raised its profile as a refuge for shipping, but silting was a problem on the Blyth. Originally it meandered out to the North Sea at Dunwich, but it was redirected by fisherman and townsfolk to the south east, as seen today, with the Dunwich River remaining to the south. During the late 17th century, Southwold became the headquarters for the Duke of Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s British fleet, which saw the English fighting against the Dutch in the Battle of Sole
Bay, a battle that could be seen 10 miles offshore. During the 1600s silting was once again affecting the fishing industry and disaster struck when a fire destroyed much of the town. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until the Georgian 1700s that the town, its harbour and fishing industry were prospering again. When Victorian steam mania was sweeping Britain, visitors started arriving at Southwold by the new railway, or by London paddle streamers docking at the new pleasure pier. The railway provided an export route for the fishing industry and a route in for tourists and beachgoers, helping establish the town as a seaside resort. Unfortunately the railway fell into decline in the 1900s. The fishing industry
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September 2020
Destination
SOUTHWOLD
Distances
Keeping a tradition. A rowing ferry service to Walberswick has been running for centuries
continued to thrive due to investment in the riverfront, known as Blackshore Quay. Fishing was not the only industry that brought Southwold prosperity through the centuries. The names Ghost Ship and Broadside will be known to beer and pale ale drinkers across the UK, and it was here that these brands came to fruition. The Suffolk brewery, Adnams can be traced back to 1345, and today its brewery is open for tours. It has also branched out into wine, cider and spirit production. Today the harbour provides over a kilometre of moorings each side for an array of resident fishing boats, classic motoryachts, modern motorboats and yachts. There is always something going on in the harbour, the family-run rowing ferry taking passengers back and forth to Walberswick, walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers following the trails, a quayside thronging with beachgoing families hoping for a bite on their crab lines, the dedicated carpenters sanding and scraping the wooden motorboats in the harbour sheds and the thrill seekers aboard the regular-running RIB rides. It is uniquely picturesque, and we wouldn’t want it any other way.
Approximate distances in nautical miles from Southwold Harbour: • Lowestoft 12 miles • Great Yarmouth 18 miles • River Ore entrance 20 miles • River Deben entrance 23 miles • Harwich 25 miles • Ipswich 34 miles
Weather & Tides
• Met Office Shipping Forecast Thames • Met Office Inshore Waters Forecast Gibraltar Point to North Foreland • Wind Guru forecast Southwold • Southwold tide predictions • East Coast Pilot weather links • BBC Forecast Wash to Harwich • North Sea buoy actuals • Gorleston NCI: A current conditions report is available from the National Coastwatch Station at Gorleston/Great Yarmouth during working hours. Call ‘Gorleston NCI’ on VHF 65 or 01493 440384
Charts & Pilot Books • *Imray 2000 Suffolk and Essex
Chart Atlas • *Imray East Coast Pilot • *Admiralty SC5614 East Coast Orford Ness To Whitby folio • *Imray C28 East Coast chart • Fernhurst East Coast Rivers • Reeds Eastern Almanac *Available at www.imray.com. Use offer code ‘SW2020’ for 20% off and free UK carriage.
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SOUTHWOLD APPROACHES
Bailey Bridge
I VIS R TO S
Harbour Office Slipway Harbour Marine Services
Southwold Harbour Y RR
Th e
BEA CH
FE
Qu ay RNLI Southwold
Walberswick
Knuckle H
C BEA
South Pier
North Pier 30
0°
de
gre
es
tru
e
Visitors should book at least 24hrs in advance. Three red lights at the entrance mean the harbour is closed. Note the shallow bank opposite the Quay
Approaches
tidal currents are often at play. Entry is not Pilot and internet guides can sometimes advisable in strengthening onshore winds, paint quite a scary picture of Southwold particularly when blowing from the north Harbour but, with careful calculations and easterly to south sector. Visitors need to be advice, it is certainly achievable. You may wary of a cross current at the entrance, the find this approach video useful. river tidal currents, 3-4 knots on a spring The entrance to the harbour lies just flood and 5-6 knots on a spring ebb, and over one nautical mile south west of their confluence at the entrance. Southwold’s distinctive seafront. Open Entry to Southwold is recommended on to the south east, it is formed by two a rising tide. Pilot guides advise timings of marked and lit piers with beaches either 30 minutes before high water, or near low side. Like many ports along this stretch water if depth is sufficient. Both are times of the east coast, careful timing, tidal and when the cross and river currents will weather planning is needed, as strong be at their slackest. The reported depth
September 2020
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Where to fill up
Harbour Marine Services specialise in the restoration of traditional craft, with a chandlery
on the entrance approach track, which is north westerly 300°T, is 0.9-1.3m at chart datum. As a rule HW Southwold, at the entrance, is half an hour after Lowestoft. Note that the tidal current will run at the visitor berths for up to an hour after the tide has changed at the entrance, which is a mile upstream. It is a good idea to confirm the high water time with the approachable HM, they may also be able to assist you with further timings and tidal heights at the entrance. The key is to avoid arriving when the river/harbour current is at its strongest, on a spring ebb and flood, as berthing at the top of the narrow and often busy harbour could be tricky. Visitors are asked to notify the harbour master at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Once off the entrance, visiting vessels should contact the harbour master for entry and berthing instructions on VHF Channel 12 or 01502 724712, callsign ‘Southwold Harbour’. Working hours are normally 8am-6pm. Note that there are entry signals at the entrance and three vertical flashing red lights, or two red
Red and white diesel is available on the North Wall along the Quay, just past the Knuckle between 8am5:30pm. The fuel berth is operated by the Harbour Office. Contact the harbour team on VHF Channel 12 or 01502 724712. Be aware there may be delays sometimes due to the office being half a mile upstream, and there is usually only one person on duty at a time.
Marine supplies
Harbour Marine Services (HMS) is an impressive, traditional and diverse boatyard offering a range of repair, paint and restoration services, for wood and GRP, and is equipped with a 25-ton travel hoist with hard standing available. It also has engine mechanics and electricians on site. The adjoining chandlery stocks many of the basics, such as rope, chain, shackles, deck hardware, paints, varnishes, clothing, sealants and Calor gas. The shop does not stock engine spares, marine parts and tools, but for this it is always worthwhile walking through the shop and asking at the HMS service department desk. If not, ASAP Supplies (01502 716993) has its main branch at Beccles (15 miles from Southwold), and is a useful contact for online marine supplies. Mumfords is a really useful, allencompassing hardware and DIY store in the High Street.
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Visitor and adjoining SSC pontoon overlooked by the Harbour Office
flags, on North Pier indicate that the harbour is closed. If this is displayed, contact the harbour master or, if outside listening hours, Humber Coastguard (VHF 16) for advice. Running parallel and as central as possible between the entrance piers, and you will see a marked jetty on the starboard side. The aptly named ‘the Knuckle’ marks where the channel widens, opening up on the north side to a modern quayside wall, known as ‘The Quay’. Here you must also turn in and run parallel and close into this wall, noting the shallow bank on the opposite side of the channel. Be aware of boat movements on the quay, as it is where commercial fishing vessels offload their bounty and where diesel is available. The speed limit becomes 4 knots here, with the harbour master urging river
users to keep their wash to a minimum. Continuing up the harbour, keeping to starboard where possible, be aware of the traditional foot ferry running across the harbour to Walberswick. Looking at the landscape you would be mistaken for thinking you had journeyed back in time. Naturally sloping mud banks each side are studded with traditional private wooden jetties hosting boats of many shapes, ages and sizes. The shingled north bank is decorated with hauled out, traditional wooden skiffs, black timber fishing sheds and large boatyard hangers while, to port, lush grass verges divide the river, marsh and farmland. The Harbour Office and visitor moorings can be found on the starboard side at Blackshore Quay. Moorings are
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Food supplies
At the top of harbour, the Bailey Bridge restricts the Blyth navigation to low air draft vessels
on traditional staging or floating pontoon here, but there is now an additional floating pontoon on the opposite side of the river. Beyond, a footbridge spans the river. Known as the Bailey Bridge, it is marked by a fixed yellow light at the centre and denotes the end of navigation to most leisure vessels. Taking into account the advice to depart the harbour on a flood tide, mooring with your bow facing downstream is preferable, and therefore, on arrival, a turn before the bridge is required. So, on your final approach to moor on the starboard staging or pontoon, one piece of advice given to us by a regular visiting boater was, should you need to turn around on a rising tide, turn to port. You will instinctively want to steer round to starboard into the berth, but, with tide under you, this maneuver will almost certainly pin you. Turning to port means you will give yourself the space to approach up tide and into the flow. If you are looking to move berths, turn around, or are departing the harbour, the HM urges all harbour users to report any movements to the Harbour Office on VHF channel 12.
Where to moor
Southwold Harbour is very busy during the summer months and therefore advance
Seafood lovers have a bewildering choice of fresh fish and shellfishselling sheds along the harbourfront. Closest to the Harbour Office is Samantha K’s selling dressed crabs, smoked fish, hot roast salmon, skate, lobsters and more, while further downstream is the Sole Bay Fish Company offering a similar choice plus Colchester Oysters. In town, there are plenty of independent fresh food establishments, including a butcher, Mills & Sons, and greengrocer, The Crab Apple on Market Place and countless bakeries. Not forgetting the Slate Cheese shop at the top end of town. There is a fairly large Coop food and convenience store on Market Place, which is open daily from 7am-10pm. There is also a Tesco Express in Queen Street, that leads off Market Place, open 8am-10pm.
Transport
A Southwold Shuttle bus runs from Southwold Caravan Park to Market Place and up the High Street to the Kings Head (a 10-minute ride, Mon-Sat), an all day ticket costs £3, a single fare is £1 and its free for those with a bus pass. The Border Bus 146 service operates from Southwold (The Kings Head stop) to Kessingland, Beccles and Norwich (1½ hours to Norwich). Bus operator, First Group, runs the 99/99A Coastal Clipper service which also operates from the Kings Head stop.
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booking is strongly recommended during this period. You will also need to be prepared with ample long lines and a fender board, for alongside the staging, and adequate shorelines as rafting is common, all of which are necessary to cope with the tidal current. The black, timber-clad Harbour Office overlooks an 80-metre floating visitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pontoon, while upstream a section of the traditional high wooden staging is used for visitor overspill. A new floating visitor pontoon was installed in 2017 and lies on the opposite bank to the staging, marked by white capped piles. The harbour master indicated that it can get shallow at the upstream end of this pontoon, with a
depth of a metre or less, and that dredging works were ongoing. However, this may well affect yachts more than motorboats. If all the visitor berths are full, you may be offered a berth on a private jetty. The friendly harbour team are very welcoming and will often come and take your lines and assist, if they are available. Those mooring against the staging will need fenders prepared high on the gunwale and fender boards deployed if you have them, as the wooden piles are very widely spaced. There are also ladders spaced roughly 30ft apart, which will be necessary to get ashore but may be slimey. Fender boards are often supplied and, on our visit, these could be found tied to the
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Destination
back railing of the staging. The newer adjacent pontoon does not yet have access to shorepower and fresh water, but the original staging and visitor pontoon does. Be aware that shorepower sockets are in short supply and connection is charged at £4.30 per night. There are toilet and shower facilities for boaters inside the harbour office building. With kind permission, or as a patron, you may also be able to use yacht club or Harbour Inn toilets. The somewhat complex schedule of summer charges sees boats up to 20ft charged £20.30 per night, 20-30ft £24, 30-40ft £29.50, 40-50ft £37.50 and, for boats over 50ft, £37.50 plus £1.85 for each additional foot.
SOUTHWOLD
Trailboating
There is a public slipway immediately downstream of the Harbour Office. The fairly narrow concrete ramp is flanked by piles and is accessible roughly 3 hours either side of high water. Users obviously need to be wary of the river current. Whilst there is no charge for using the public slipway, harbour dues need to be paid at the Harbour Office at the daily rate of £9.50. Alternatively, frequent users can pay for an annual clearance (from April to March), and its cost depends on the length of the vessel, for example boats up to 20ft (6.1m) pay £72 per year. The slipway could prove busy on Sundays, as it is often race day for the adjacent Southwold Sailing
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Club. Boat and trailer parking must be pre-arranged with the Harbour Office, as the riverfront hard standing area for trailers, located immediately downstream of the office, is very small. Be aware that this can also flood on a high spring or surge tide. Storage ashore, arranged through the HM, is priced at £2.50 per foot per month. There is a marked waterski area upstream between AprilSeptember. Note that the River Blyth is unsuitable for PWCs and that waterskiiing is restricted to registered Southwold Water Ski Club members only. For more information about the club contact Vince Mortlock on 01502 724769. Those looking to base a small trailboat in the harbour for a few days may be interested to know that there is a caravan and camp site at the beach end of the harbour. There is also a fantastic choice of self-catering properties, hotels and B&Bs in and around the town.
Where to eat and drink
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to eateries in Southwold, both in town and around the harbour, the latter with its numerous seafood-selling sheds. Those looking for a full English breakfast,
There is a public slipway but avoid LW springs
without the dirty dishes, could head to the Harbour Café, which is just a short stroll downstream on the east side of the harbourfront. This nautically-themed, dog-friendly café-cum-tearoom is open 8am-4pm throughout the year and its menu also includes light bites, lunchtime or afternoons meals, with toasties and cakes, and home-cooked favourites such as lasagne, ham, egg and chips, scampi or fish and chips and, for desert, sticky toffee pudding and custard. The Anchor pub at Walberswick comes highly recommended by visiting boaters. With a menu that is more up-market than your average traditional pub, it serves an array of locally-sourced foods, including wood-fired pizzas, fish, shellfish platters, freshly-baked bread and charcoal-grilled
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Beyond the Bailey Bridge, the River Blyth is accessible by small boat and has a watersports area
meat dishes. Not forgetting a range of local beer, stout and cider available at the bar. For those venturing upstream on the River Blythe, there is the Adnamsoperated White Hart pub. This former 16th century courthouse overlooks the wide marshland river estuary and has a lovely garden. Its menu includes dressed Cromer crab, pub classics such as fish and chips and a Sunday roast. Just a stoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throw from the visitors staging, The Harbour Inn is perfectly positioned when the onboard chef wants the night off. There are, of course, plenty of great pubs and restaurants in the town as well to choose from. The Crown is a particular favourite with visiting boaters and is ideal for a special night on the town. The Lord Nelson in East Street is another popular Adnams pub ideal for hearty pub grub and pale ale at lunch time. Another great place for that special night is Coasters in Queen Street. You could start your evening in the Southwold Sailing Club that overlooks the visitor moorings. Its bar is open on Friday evenings Oct-Apr and at weekends from May-Sept. It welcomes visiting boaters and has motorboat members.
Places to see and visit
The town centre is within easy walking distance of the harbour, 20-25 minutes
depending on which route you take. The quickest and most sheltered route, at 20 minutes and just over a 1 mile, is to follow York Road that leads off at the western end of the Blackshore Quay car park, passing the golf club, water tower and Southwold Common. This walk delivers you to the top of the High Street. Possibly the most scenic route is along the harbour and beachfront, cutting through the dunes. This route leads on to the promenade and there are plenty of ice cream-selling kiosks and cafes should you need a break to take in the scenery (public toilets too). Please
Further afield
Further up the Suffolk coast lies Lowestoft (see guide Jan 20). This commercial, all tides port provides visitor moorings at the RN&SYC and Lowestoft Haven Marina in Lake Lothing, it is also a gateway to the Broads (Oulton Broad Yacht Station). Further north, Great Yarmouth provides another entry point for the Broads. Further south along the coast is the entrance to the River Alde, accessing the beautiful town of Aldeburgh and the Deben, for picture postcard Woodbridge at Tide Mill Yacht Harbour (see guide May 14).
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KEY
High Street Slipway
C
1 Harbour Office & Facilities
Chandlery Bus stop
C
1 3 2
Cashpoint
14
2
Tesco Express
3
Samantha K’s
4
Sole Bay Fish Co.
5 Alfred Corry Lifeboat Museum 6 7 8 9
Golf Course
3
ER
Coop Store
RIV
1
BLY T
H
Footpath
2 Southwold Sailing Club 3 The Harbour Inn 4 Harbour Marine Services & Cafe
YORK RO AD
13
4
C
4
Adnams Cellar & Kitchen Southwold Museum Coasters The Crown
10 Southwold Pier
SOUTHWOLD COMMON
11 The Lord Nelson 12 Southwold Lighthouse
15
13 The Bell Inn 14 The Anchor 15 Southwold-Walberswick Ferry
C
BEA CH
Caravan Park Public Toilets
8
5
2
11
9
6 7
1
12
N
DUNES
SOUTHWOLD BEACH
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Southwold Map. Its main shopping street, High Street has plenty of pubs and independent stores
note that if you have canine crew, dogs are not allowed on Southwold beach between 1st April-30th September. The very traditional and unspoilt High Street boasts plentiful cafes and restaurants, pubs, independent boutiques and food, gift and craft stores. It also has the favourite ‘boatiques’, as we like to call them, including Crew Clothing, Joules and a huge Fat Face at the top end of town. Divert onto the pretty back streets and alleys and you could uncover hidden treasure. Collectors won’t be able to resist the many antique selling establishments around the town, and those that love to rummage in a charity shop will not be disappointed either. For pale ale and beer lovers, a visit to the Adnams Cellar and Kitchen is a must. Adnams is a well-known Suffolk brewery, founded in Southwold, and a weekend tour of the brewery and tasting will set you back £29 per person. Tucked away in Victoria Street, in the shadow of the beautiful St Edmund’s Church, is the Southwold Museum. Housed in a 17th century building are many of Southwold’s cherished artefacts, including fossils,
medals and ships figureheads. It is small but definitely worth exploring. A stroll along Southwold’s captivating seafront and its revived pleasure pier is a must. The white-balustraded cliff promenade provides a beautiful sea panorama and is flanked by many pinkwashed Georgian residences. Also dating back to the 1800s, the pier offers many eateries, shops and retro arcades. Towering above the beachfront façade is Southwold’s lighthouse. Built in 1887 and standing 31 metres high, it has been in operation since 1890, flashing intermittently day and night to warn shipping. It is now open to the public through Trinity House and entry is £4.50 for adults, children over 1.1m are £3 and a family ticket is £14. Southwold Harbour is perfect for walkers and cyclists, and the quaint adjacent town of Walberswick is definitely worth investigating. Here walking or riding up the lanes, Ferry Road and The Street, and passing the well-manicured village green, there are two pubs, a tea room, a traditional community shop and small Co-op village shop. There is also the beach, its dunes and the Dunwich River,
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Destination an inlet of the harbour, to explore. Taking the Southwold-Walberswick Ferry is a lovely option. There has been a traditional rowing boat ferry link here since ancient times and today a lady rower operates the service on demand. Fares are £2 for adults, £1 for children aged 6 to 18, £2 per bicycle. Dogs and children under 5 are welcome free of charge. From Walberswick you could also take a stroll or ride along the west side of the harbour and come back across the bridge. Note that cycling is not permitted on the bridge. If you have a tender, another great thing to do is explore the River Blyth upstream. There is a marked watersports area above the bridge, which is popular with enthusiasts launching at the harbour slipway. The pretty and peaceful river is a birdwatcher’s paradise, winding its way through the picturesque marshland to the neighbouring village of Blythburgh. Here there is a small landing pontoon before the A12 bridge on the left-hand side of the river, while yards away in the village itself is a waterfront pub and a charming village store. If the tides are right, a lunch or early dinner at the pub may well be doable. On the harbour seafront is the Alfred Corry Lifeboat Museum. The trusteefunded museum houses the traditional rowing lifeboat, the Alfred Corry, as well
SOUTHWOLD
Its seafront is decorated with Georgian houses
as historic images and artefacts relating to its rescues and Southwold’s maritime and wartime history. At the time of MBO’s visit the museum was closed due to the Covid19 pandemic, but much work was being done to restore and extend the magnificent 1920s timber-framed building, which is the former Cromer Lifeboat Shed. It is a small attraction but it is jam-packed with fascinating history. Finally, for those who love the bustle and a browse of a market, Southwold hosts several during the week. Southwold Market is held every Monday and Thursday in the Market Place, while a Country Market is on Fridays between 9:30-12noon at the United Reformed Church Hall in the High Street. A Farmers’ Market is held every Friday 9am-12:30pm at Drayman’s Square in Victoria Street. MBO
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©EastSuffolkCouncil
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
Q&A
Your Questions Answered
Radar course
Q I got caught out in fog recently and although I have a radar fitted I quickly realised that I didn’t have much of an idea of how it works and what I was seeing. Is there a course for radar, like there is for VHF?
A Yes there is. The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) run a one-day course
using radar simulators that will take you through the basics of setting up and using your radar. Once you have done the course, the best thing you can do to follow it up is to use your radar set as often as possible. This means using it when the visibility is good and you can visually see what the radar is showing and you can play with the controls to see how things such as gain, clutter and tuning affect the returns being shown. The next time you are on passage, ask someone else to take the helm while you have a play. You can’t do any damage and can always reset to factory settings if you feel you have changed things too much and don’t remember how to get back to where you started. In the meantime, have a look at our ‘basic radar functions’ feature in the October 2016 issue, available in our back issues library.
Motorboat Owner has also covered tips when encountering fog in the May 2019 issue 58
September 2020
If you have a question, email us at
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Oil for E-Tec outboard
Q I have bought a RIB with a 90hp E-TEC outboard on the
back. I have been told that I should use a very expensive oil called XD100. I note that there is another BRP branded oil called XD50, which is cheaper, and then there is normal two-stroke outboard oil, which is cheaper still. Do I really have to use the expensive XD100 stuff?
A Evinrude E-TEC outboards are designed to use the synthetic XD100 oil
and, because of its high qualities, they use less of it to provide adequate internal lubrication. This all helps E-TEC outboards achieve the ‘green’ credentials that saw most other two-stroke outboards disappear from sale many years ago. Although XD100 is expensive, the engine is very frugal with it so running costs are not as high as the oil price might indicate. However, if you cannot obtain XD100, or want to run the engine on a lesser grade of oil, a dealer can program the engine accordingly. There are options in the software to set the engine up to run on XD50 as well as a standard TWC3 oil. In this case, the engine’s ECU will ensure that more oil is used to make up for its inferior quality. If you own an E-TEC, it is important to ensure that you know what oil it has been programmed for. Running it on XD100 when the engine is set for XD50 or TWC3 will be more costly than it need be, while running on XD50 or TWC3 while programmed for XD100 could cause internal damage. A trip to your local dealer to check the oil grade the engine is currently set for is the first thing I would recommend. You can then ask them to change it, if you want to run it on a different type of oil.
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Q&A
Your Questions Answered
Sterndrive revive
Q My sterndrive is looking a bit
rough. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best way to paint it?
A Most of us just give them a scrub,
remove any loose paint and slap on a new coat of antifoul each year, but if you want to get your drives looking factory fresh again you are in for a bit more work. The best way to start is by removing the drive and taking it somewhere where you can work on it a bit easier, such as a shed, garage or workshop. Then you will need to strip all the old paint off. In the past, I have used normal paint stripper to do this. Once you have the drive down to bare aluminium you need to ensure that the surface is clean and free of any dust or oil. A wipe over with an acetone soaked cloth will do. Next, and as soon after cleaning as you can to avoid the aluminium oxidising too much, give the metal a good coat of etch primer. Once the required overcoat time has passed, you can use any suitable topcoat paint, including the drive manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own product, but for a really tough finish you might be better with an epoxy enamel top coat. If the boat is staying in the water, this will, of course, need a coat or two of antifoul paint to complete the job.
Removing and working on it at home is an option. Finish with a coat of Trilux antifoul 60
September 2020
Q&A
Your Questions Answered
MerCruiser oil pressure
Q I seem to have an oil pressure reading problem on my Mercruiser V8-
powered flybridge boat. When cold, both upper and lower gauges give a reading of around 40psi, but as the engine warms up the oil pressure gradually drops off to almost zero. There is also a small discrepancy between the two gauges. Worried that I had a serious engine problem, I screwed a manual gauge straight into the sender port and I found that I had nearer 60psi when cold, dropping to around 45psi when warm. This points to a gauge problem, but what could be affecting both gauges?
A It sounds like you have very healthy oil pressure in your engine and, with
both gauges giving you a false low reading, I would say it is almost certainly a wiring problem. The system uses resistance to provide a reading at the gauge, and any corrosion of the wires or poorly made joints would introduce extra resistance to give you false low readings. The slight discrepancy between the two is probably down to either different lengths of cable runs to each gauge, or slightly higher resistance on one branch of the circuit than the other. I would start by running a brand new wire with new terminals direct from the sender to each gauge in turn and check that you have better readings. If so, branch off so that you have a wire running to each gauge from the sender, keeping both runs as near to the same length as possible.
5-litre MerCruiser Thunderbolt LX/V8 engine fitted to a Bayliner 62
September 2020
Homeward bound 64
September 2020
Fjalbacka Malmon Hamburgsund Hunnebostrand Smogen CRUISING Lysekil Gullholmen Astol Marstrand
Denmark
SK
RR
E AG
AK
Goteburg
SWEDEN Varberg Traslovslage KAT AT TEG
DENMARK
Torekov
Helsingborg Helsingor Ven Copenhagen Greve
Rodvig Klintholm Schaprode Stralsund
GERMANY
Having made their way from Holland to Norway in 2018, we re-join intrepid Broom owners Peter and Gill Pitcher in Sweden as they embark on the next part of their journey towards Seawolf â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home berth in Holland. Peter recounts their passage along the Danish coast and into Germany Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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O
n the next leg of our journey we would be making our way south from Sweden to the Danish east coast. Leaving Helsingborg in Sweden we made the very short trip, 2½ miles,
west across the Oresund to our first stop in Denmark, Helsingor. Pronounced ‘Elsinore’ by the Danes, it is home to the beautifully ornate, Kronborg Castle, fondly known as Hamlet’s Castle.
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Before setting off we had phoned the harbour master at Helsingor and arranged to have a berth in the new area to the north of the commercial harbour in the shadow of the castle. We were told that we would be one of the first to use it, and what an honour and a great position it turned out to be, particularly as the marina was
right over the other side and the visitor berths at the very end near its entrance. Despite being right in the middle of town, I did not find the fee at 220 DK (circa ÂŁ27) per night over the top. Electricity, however, is charged separately. Unfortunately, the weather was not very kind to us. It was raining, but nevertheless Helsingor was a most interesting town, with lots to see. The castle, of course, is a must visit, but there is also a fascinating maritime museum which is in the old
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City convenience. Seawolf moored against the quayside at Nyhavn in central Copenhagen
dry dock, between our berth and the castle, with lots of ‘hands on’ interactive activities. During our stay we had one interesting evening when ten Danish naval patrol boats came into the harbour. The crews came ashore and paraded along the harbour side with full band. Upon leaving Helsingor we made the short passage south to the Swedish island of Ven, which is a real jewel in the middle of the sound. It can be hectic in season, but, being May, it was very quiet. There are three harbours in Ven, but the one most suitable for visitors is Kyrkbacken.
This is on the west of the island and provides sheltered berths. We were lucky to get an alongside berth, while many of the boats were moored bow in. On the island it is the ‘done thing’ to hire a bike. The island has a circumference of 11.7 km and in season there is good swimming at that time of year. The beaches are on either side of the harbour. Ven is also famous, being the home of the astronomer, Tycho Brahe. Leaving Ven we took a short run down to revisit Copenhagen, which is a fascinating city with lots to see and do.
Copenhagen’s Langeline Marina and Little Mermaid 68
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Copenhagen’s fairytale 17th century Rosenburg Palace and its treasures, the crown of Christian V
Here we were lucky enough to stay right in the centre, in the photogenic, 17th century dock known as the Nyhavn. There are not a lot of berths here for visiting boats, but if you can find one, it is the best place to be. There are also three other options for berthing, the Langeline, the Wilderplads marina, also known as Christianhavns, or the ‘Hotel Admiralen’. We would recommend trying the Nyhavn first. If its full then try the hotel moorings, as the marinas can get very crowded. Copenhagen is a sheer pleasure to walk around, it is a most interesting city. Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid and the
Rosenburg Palace were just a handful of attractions we visited this time, and there are plenty more. Contemplating our next move south, on a previous occasion we had stayed at Flakfortet, a little island at the entrance of Copenhagen. It is a very pleasant stop if the weather is good, and perfect for a barbecue. There is a restaurant and shop here and there are also many harbours in the area. However, taking into account that we were flying home for a short spell soon, we decided to go around the island of Amager to the town of Hundige, also known as Greve. Greve Marina is nicely
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Wartime history. Peter and Gill visited the cold war tunnels and museum on the cliffs at Stevnsfort
situated to get to Copenhagen airport and has superb facilities. Within walking distance of our marina berth was one of the biggest shopping malls we have ever come across, called ‘Waves’. There are also several supermarkets nearby and a first class restaurant, the Ishuset Hejren, on site. Here we met a very helpful gentleman called Peter Vintner, who is the agent for Princess Yachts for Denmark which has its base here. We were very grateful of his assistance, and Greve proved the ideal place to leave Seawolf while we returned
home to Jersey. Previously we had stopped at Koge next, but on this occasion we left Greve, crossed the Koge Bugt and made passage to the fishing resort of Rodvig. On this particular passage it is advisable to keep well out from the white cliffs off the Stevns Klint. At Rodvig the visitor harbour gets quite busy, but there are alongside berths on the hammerhead of the pontoons to starboard as you enter and, if full, you can get a berth in the adjacent fishing harbour. Whilst in Rodvig we can thoroughly recommend taking a whole day out of
Rødvig is a bustling fishing harbour on Denmark’s east coast. Its entrance and fishing quay, pictured 70
September 2020
They explored the white cliffs and historic buildings at the Uneseco World Heritage site, Stevns Klint
your schedule to explore the area. We took the bus to Hojerup and walked the limestone cliff path as far as the Cold War Tunnels at Stevnsfort. The nuclear attackproof fortress and its tunnels are now a museum attraction. It is an interesting part of Danish history and a conducted tour around the tunnels is included in your entry ticket. Upon leaving Rodvig we crossed the Fakse Bugt to the island of Mons, and made for the harbour of Klintholm. Here we found good facilities, but a very
sparse hinterland. The harbour itself had everything one could wish for, good protection, water, a decent shorepower supply, and a friendly HM. It turned out to be an excellent springboard point to get to our destination of Stralsund in Germany. Travelling between the countries of Sweden and Denmark, we had come to the conclusion that in Sweden nobody wanted cash, and paying by card was the preference. You could not get on a bus with cash, in restaurants you couldn’t pay with cash and you couldn’t even buy your coffee
There was a friendly welcome and great facilities at the quiet harbour of Klintholm Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd 71
Germanyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Libben channel estuary is shallow in places, particularly between the islands
with cash. The Danes, however, were very happy to accept cash, but we did notice some places charged an additional 3.5% if you used a foreign credit card. This is on top of the percentage fee that the credit card companies charged. With the wind due to increase later, we left Klintholm for Stralsund at 06:30am to get the best of the weather. We had good visibility and enjoyed a pleasant open sea run. Before long we were making our way between the German islands of Rugen and Hiddensee, via a channel known as the Libben. Its entrance is very shallow and,
although it is well marked, you must stick to the channel. We made passage south at a very slow and steady 5 knots, as there is no room for mistakes. There is ample water in the channel but if you leave it you are likely to go aground. The channel widened out into a calm estuary and we decided to spend the night at the little harbour at Schaprode. Located in a narrow channel between the islands of Rugan and Ohe, the small town offered good boating facilities, but we were somewhat disappointed to find very little else. Nevertheless at 15 euros per
Schaprode, a little harbour on the Libben in Germany 72
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night, including electric and water, it was excellent value. It was also the only place on our journey where we could not get a Wi-Fi signal. The next morning we continued down the sheltered Schaproder Bodden and arrived at the regional capital of Stralsund. Stralsund has all you need in the way of boating and, being a major town, it has good facilities and connections. Whilst we were there it was Navy Day,
which is a big tourist event, so there was lots going on involving the navy, marines and the army, including helicopter rescues in the bay. There was even a visit from the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel. It was here in Stralsund we broke our journey south for the time being and joined the 16-boat, week-long Cruising Association Baltic Section’s Rugen Rally, which finished in June in Swinoujscie, western Poland. MBO
German seaside town, Stralsund, has plenty of sights including the ornate St Mary’s Church Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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tested USS Ultra Tef-Gel
PRICE
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for 56g
£31.95
Two years ago I made a change to my anode choice on our Sealine S28. I went from zinc, which I had been using for years, to aluminium. Cost and weight saving were the big factors, and the fact that we moor in brackish water made it an even easier choice to justify. Step forward 12 months and it was time for the annual service, including anode change. The anodes had appeared to do their job well, but there was a snag. Not one of the 10 bolts that held the six anodes on the two drives would come undone. The bolts are all stainless steel Allen key types Motorboat Owner and on every bolt, the head rounded before any “Invaluable where movement was achieved. The result was that I had to carefully stainless meets angle grind each anode from the drive. Interestingly, as I aluminium” gradually removed each one I found that it wasn’t the threads Value 3/5 of the bolts seizing in the aluminium drive mouldings at all. Usability 5/5 The seizing had actually happened where the stainless steel Performance 4/5 bolt had passed through the aluminium anode. The reaction between the two metals meant a large build up of white aluminium oxide that had ensured the bolts were stuck solidly to the anode. The obvious thing to do now would be to revert to zinc, but I had ordered two years worth of anodes so had another set of aluminium ones to fit. Not wanting to suffer the same problem again, I gave the threaded shaft of each bolt a coat of USS Ultra Tef-Gel. This product is designed to be used where dissimilar metals meet and is said to stop corrosion Having had to cut anodes off, I wasn’t taking any chances caused by a galvanic cell
All tests in Motorboat Owner are carried out by real boaters in real life situations
The sticky gel is applied with a brush and, after 18 months in the water, was still in evidence
where an electrolyte, in this case seawater, is also present. The tub comes with a little applicator, which is like a mascara brush, and after a generous coat of the sticky PTFE based gel, each aluminium anode was bolted back onto the drives, Fingers were then crossed that it would stop a reoccurrence of the problem this year. As things turned out, our annual lift became more like an 18-month lift due to Covid-related boatyard restrictions, and just a few weeks ago the boat was lifted and service work commenced. Firstly, I can report that the product certainly did not in any way affect the effectiveness of the anodes. I was concerned that it might electrically isolate the anodes from the drive, but anode corrosion levels were bang on what we normally experience. Then the real test; with Allen socket at the ready, each and every bolt came undone as easily as if I had only put them on the day before. There was zero evidence of oxide build up between bolt and anode. It had worked brilliantly. I now find myself reaching for the Tef-Gel every time that I have to bolt something together where dissimilar metals and an electrolyte will all be present. The obvious one is where outboard manufacturers use stainless steel bolts to hold various aluminium castings together. I now have absolute confidence that these will easily come undone next time I need to dismantle them. Tef-Gel is an expensive product, working out at around 60p per gram in the 56g tub that I have, more if you buy the smaller tubes that are available, but the benefits far outweigh the cost, especially as you seem to use so little of it. Neale Enquiries: CoastWaterSports www.coastwatersports.co.uk Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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Motorboat Owner
PROJECT BOAT
BEFORE
PROJECT Fairline Vixen
I
started this month with a view of trying to get myself somewhere near to attempting to start the engine of our Project Fairline. It’s been a long haul, but looking at pictures of what it was like at the beginning, compared to now, and it’s easy to see where all those uncounted man hours have disappeared to. A simple checklist revealed that the systems that I still have to complete, before that long awaited turn of the ignition key, include the engine’s raw water cooling, the fresh water cooling, exhaust, electrics, engine controls and instruments and the fuel. I also still had to re-commission the
power trim and tilt system. Considering where we were just a few months ago on the Fairline’s mechanicals this is a pleasantly short list, and I started out with the aim of getting as many of them ticked off as I could. Before I started working on the list, I had one little job to do on the outdrive. When I filled it with oil, I assumed it took the same synthetic 75W90 GL5 oil that I use in the newer drives on our Sealine. I was wrong. The manual calls for engine oil in the 290A drive, and some research showed that the higher quality oil I had filled it with was not better. In fact it was
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A quick stern drive oil change was required to rectify an earlier mistake
AFTER
considerably worse. These older drives use a die cast aluminium slinger pump in the lower unit that literally flicks the cooler oil at the bottom of the drive upwards to lubricate the top end. This spinner can be damaged by the thicker grade oil, resulting in a lack of top end lubrication and an expensive repair bill. I drained the high spec oil out, reluctantly discarded it and refilled the drive with 2.6 litres of 10W30, the same grade as used in the AQ151. Back inside the boat, I started by installing the new shift and throttle control I picked up a couple of months back. Feeding the recently installed gear shift cable forward to the helm, it was then simply a case of fixing it to the new control, and swapping the throttle cable
over from old to new. The hole left in the console from the old control was exactly the right size for the new one, so it was then just a matter of drilling some new fixing holes and bolting it all together. This is literally the first new upgrade anywhere on the boat outside of the engine bay and sterndrive, and very smart it looks too. In the engine bay, I started looking
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New engine controls at the helm mark a move away from engine bay mechanicals for the first time
at the two cooling systems. First job, install a new drive belt that runs both the alternator and the fresh water pump before it gets buried below other parts. Next, I re-installed the raw water pump complete with a new impeller. Finally I could refit the heat exchanger and connect the hose between it and the fresh water
pump. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the fresh water cooling circuit completed, so I was able fill it up with a 50/50 antifreeze/fresh water mix and tick one job off the list. Next I moved on to the exhaust. The manifold that I originally removed was one of the cleanest parts on the engine and, I suspect, had done little work, and
The freshwater and raw water cooling systems have been re-commissioned, as we edge slowly closer to an attempt at an engine start 78
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mostly on fresh water. A quick clean up of all the mating surfaces, removing any old gasket remnants, was followed by a stiff wire brushing to remove any flaky paint. With the mating surfaces masked off, the whole manifold was repainted in matt black heat resistant paint. New gaskets were then installed onto the manifold using a heat proof silicone sealant and, with another coat of sealant on the other gasket surface, the manifold was offered up to the engine and bolted in place. A quick tighten of a hose clamp later, and job two could be ticked off the list. With the heat exchanger and exhaust manifold in place I could now move on to the raw water system. The pump and the inlet pipe were already in place, so all I had to do was connect up the various components that make up the raw water system with the four lengths of copper pipe that had lain in my workshop undisturbed for over three years. These pipes were all given a thorough clean, paying particular attention to all the flanges and sealing rings. The pipes are held in place with a variety of fixings, but some of them are simply push fit, so it is imperative that they are in tip top condition if they are not to leak. Three of the four pipes had captive retaining
??????????????????????????????????? ???????????????????????????????
The exhaust manifold was generally in good condition, just needing a clean up......
.....and paint to look almost as good as new
Heat proof sealant was added to the gaskets before fitting Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
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The copper raw water pipes were looking a bit rough with some corrosion on the fixtures
The pipes were cleaned and new rubber sealing rings applied to all joints
flanges on one end, and two of these were quite badly corroded. The pipes cannot be purchased any more so I was either going to have to fabricate something new, or take a punt that they would still do their job. Given that the two corroded flanges have a large, thick metal S shaped flange over the top of them, I took the second option. I did rust treat and paint the weakened flanges first, in the hope of preventing any further deterioration. If they do leak, I will have to revert to fabrication and cut and join the pipes to fit new flanges. At the ends of each pipe there are some rubber sealing rings. The originals were completely shot, so a new kit containing all the washers and rings required was
The copper pipework was fitted, which was easier said than done
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The engine electrics, including new wiring loom and HT circuits, were all connected
sourced and put to work. One by one these four pipes were installed. The first takes water from the intake pipe at the transom to the raw water pump. The second delivers that water to the strainer and then on through the heat exchanger. These two were very straightforward to install. The third pipe runs from the heat exchanger to the oil cooler, and the last one goes from the oil cooler to the exhaust manifold where the spent water is ejected through the drive. This part of the job was like trying to complete an impossible three-part jigsaw. The oil cooler has to be loosened and the pipes, three out of four ends of which are simply push fit, have to be pushed into place in a very specific order, all while laying on top of the engine with your head upside down. Quite a bit of care and attention is needed when fitting these pipes to ensure that you get the orientation exactly right to allow the sealing rings to fit squarely and do their
job. Whether I have succeeded in that will remain to be seen when the engine is finally started, but I will not be surprised to see a dribble or two coming from these joins. For now, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job number three getting a tick. You may remember that a few months back I completely re-fabricated the engineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wiring loom. It was now time to install it and I was very glad to have marked each wire and kept careful notes, and even with them I still had
The new engine loom was connected to the existing helm wiring
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The engine was set to top dead centre on cylinder no 1 to decipher the placement of the HT leads
to revert to some of the photos I took during disassembly to see exactly how and where the wires ran. Without this attention to detail, I really don’t think I would have had a clue where it all went. As it turned out, it went back together very easily and with all new wires and terminals I am hoping to avoid any of those nasty electrical gremlins you can often find when you undertake a rebuild. Plugging the newly made engine loom into the helm wiring felt like a seminal moment. In theory, if I were to put 12V to the engine, I should now see some activity at the helm. I am going to resist the temptation for now, instead waiting until I have checked out the wiring at the helm end, just in case there are any nasty surprises awaiting me there. Filed mentally under the ‘electrics’ category, I also needed to install a new set of spark plug leads. The problem I faced here was knowing which terminal on the distributor cap related to which cylinder’s
spark plug. The way to solve this is to hand crank the engine until piston No 1, at the front of the engine, is at top dead centre on its firing stroke. This can be confirmed by the timing marks on the crankshaft pulley being lined up with the 0° and the lobes on the camshaft, visible through the oil filler cap, pointing horizontally away from each other, meaning both valves are closed. At this point, the rotor arm in the distributor will be pointing to No 1 spark plug terminal, so the lead can be installed to No 1 spark plug. Rotating the crankshaft pulley clockwise (not all engines rotate clockwise) the next terminal that the rotor arm points at will be cylinder No3 (the AQ151 has a 1,3,4,2 firing order). Next will be No 4 and finally spark plug No 2. With the new leads all in place they were marked up for future ease of replacement, such as when changing spark plugs or distributor cap during normal servicing. The centre HT lead was installed and, after bolting it back in place,
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The power trim hydraulic pump has been removed for a spruce up back at the workshop
was plugged into the coil. The electrics cannot be ticked off the list quite yet though, as I still have all of the main DC wiring to install, i.e. the battery cabling, shut offs, starting and charging circuits. The trim and tilt hydraulics were the last thing on the list for this month. A close look at all of the terminals on the pump itself, which up to this point had remained fairly hidden behind the engine bay moulding, revealed quite a bit of corrosion on all of the terminals. Due to the difficulty in accessing them in situ, I decided to remove the whole pump and take it back to the workshop for a quick overhaul, clean up, test and paint. With that final task tackled, the list of jobs to do prior to turning the key has become even smaller. I need to install the main DC distribution, check the helm electrics, overhaul, refit and recommission the trim pump and install the fuel system. I said at the beginning of the year that I wanted to be turning the
engine over before 2020 is out and, despite the three month unplanned hiatus, it is looking positive that this will be the case. I have already placed orders for the parts needed for the electrics, and the trim pump is on the bench ready to be worked on so, if all goes well, this time next month I may just have the fuel system to tackle. MBO
Spend so far
Motorboat Owner
PROJECT BOAT This month’s spend
Drive belt £10 Impeller £15 Water pipe sealing washer kit £9.20 HT lead kit £37.80 Oil for drive: £6.24 Paint, ATF and other consumables: £8
Balance from last month
£1,893.10
Total to date: £1,979.34
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Hooked Simon Everett is collecting and using live prawns
I
am not sure why, but using live prawn as bait seems to have fallen out of favour. When I was growing up, live prawn was a popular bait for many inshore species, especially along rocky shorelines or over reefy ground. There aren’t many fish that won’t eat a prawn and they make excellent bait, on broken ground they are eaten by virtually everything that swims, including squid and cuttlefish. The most popular use for them though was to target bass, pollack and ballan wrasse, all of which take a live prawn with the utmost confidence. There are two main methods used for fishing a live prawn, under a sliding float, or freelined with a light bullet weight, but they can also be ledgered from an anchored boat with great success in certain circumstances. However, before you can use live prawns for bait you have to collect them and this requires some effort, but is satisfying in itself. There are prawn pots, or traps, available KIT: FLAMBEAU FLOATING LIVEBAIT COURGE
A floating courge allows circulation of water. These are around £20 to buy
on the market which, provided you have a ledge or similar prawn holding feature, can supply you with sufficient numbers to use, but it takes time and a sustained effort. You would need several pots and soak them several times to collect enough prawns for a trip. By far the best way of getting a ready supply of prawns is to use a hand net and get wet, although in these days of breathable waders there is no need to brave the water by wet wading in shorts, thereby remaining dry and comfortable. If the water is too deep to wade, then you aren’t in the best spot to catch prawns anyway. By wading on an incoming tide and targeting harbour walls, rock ledges or weed banks, especially stands of bladderwrack, you should be able to catch a few dozen decent prawns in an hour, or in prolific areas, far quicker. When gathering your prawns be very selective, it is very easy to kill the goose that lays the golden egg by taking too many and the wrong ones. I always put back berried females, irrespective of size. The females with eggs are recognised by the dark patch under the belly and they are the basis of your stock, take these and you will soon empty your patch. I also discard those that are too small, these are no use as bait and are your future big prawns. The best ones are the size of your index finger, or larger and these are the ones that will catch the better fish, the
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Simon prawning around the rocks. The Flambeau floating livebait courge is attached to him with a lanyard and keeps the netted prawns fresh inside. Right, the results of one good scoop
small ones will only catch tiddlers. To keep the prawns alive a bucket of water will work for a few, but once the numbers build you need a good aerator to keep them alive. By far the best way of keeping prawns alive is to use a courge (a kind of holding tank), in my formative years I used to use a wooden courge that we kept afloat on the mooring, it was about 3 feet long, 18-inches deep and shaped like a double ended landing craft. It had two compartments, one end for sandeels, the other for prawns with a lid each to access one compartment at a time. The ‘box’ was lined with hessian sacking to help filter the water coming through the percolation holes and reduce the turbulence within the courge through wave action, it helped to reduce mortality greatly over an unlined version. Making one out of plywood is not difficult but there are also injection moulded ones on the market, such as the Flambeau that I
use which has a spring loaded lid to make life easy, both when putting your captives away or when getting one out to use. There are quite a few options on the market now, when it comes to livebait buckets, I like this floating version as it is easy to tether to me and the prawns are in constantly recycling water. When hunting your prawns, start at low tide in water about a foot deep. Work the area as the tide comes in, keeping an eye on your escape route, so you don’t get
Weed covered rocks are where the prawns live
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Hooked continued... cut off. I look for stands of weed and rocks with weed around them, this gives natural cover for the prawns, which will cling to the underside of overhangs, or in crevices. They naturally want to swim down and away, so start hard on the bottom and bring the net upwards, keeping it tight to the face of the rock or wall. With overhangs, stick the net in as far as you can, with the handle slightly downward and the tip of the net slightly higher, then drag the net gently outwards, any prawns hanging underneath the ledge will be dislodged and will dive into the net. For bladderwrack stands, start the net at the bottom of the stand of weed and sweep upwards, fairly swiftly, any prawns hanging in the weed will swim into the net. I always sort the prawns in the net, it is much easier to sort out any small fish and crabs that get caught at the same time. I quite frequently catch corkwing wrasse, butterfish and gobies when prawning, it is up to you if you want to keep these as well as the prawns, certainly bass will take them
A weed-encrusted harbour wall at low water is a good place to hunt for prawns
but I tend to stick to using prawns. To keep the prawns alive for the longest, I float the courge overboard on a lanyard, that way the prawns are always in fresh water and remain in perfect condition. There is no finer bait than a lively prawn on a hook, takes are normally very rapid and it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t often a prawn will stay out for more than a minute or two without getting taken, so action is rapid and repeated. Our harbours and estuaries are good hunting grounds for prawns, so give them a try, or simply collect them to cook and eat with salt, pepper and a dash of vinegar.
The small boat allows access to more remote hunting grounds, such as here on the Menai Strait
A decent prawn makes a magnificent bait
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SALES@IDEALBOAT.COM
CLASSIC CRUISERS
a complete guide to the best boats on the used market
Seamaster 27 T he 20 years between 1961-81 are often described as the ‘Golden Years’ of boat production for the Essex boat builder, Seamaster, and its best seller during that period has got to be the 27. This month we find out why the 27 is described as the ‘perfect river boat’. Introduced in 1965 as a development of the 25 Admiral, the 27 offered an almost identical four-berth, compact cabin-cruiser layout, a single engine and a shallow draft hull configuration. With 6ft headroom, L-shape dinette, galley, toilet compartment and separate forward cabin with twin berths, the extra hull length
provided a larger, more spacious cockpit. The 27 was, in fact, initially advertised as the ‘Atlantic 27’. Perhaps misleading, this was dropped within a year in favour of ‘Seamaster 27’. Built primarily as an inland cruiser, it also was available with twin petrol or diesel engines for coastal trips in fair weather, giving speeds up to 10 knots. Two of the Seamaster 27’s biggest rivals at the time were perhaps the Freeman 26 (1965-1973) and the Elysian 27 (19621972), the latter being a product of Dick Sparrow, the original founder of Seamaster, and designer Hugh Easton of Senior and Project renown.
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Built 1965-1974 (over 600) Prices then £2,250 (1965) Prices now £8,000-£13,000 Length 26ft 8in / 8.13m Beam 9ft 4in / 2.84m Air Draught windscreen 2.13m screens down 6ft / 1.83m Draught 2ft 1in / 0.63m Fuel 12-27 gallons/55-123 litres Water 22 gallons / 100 litres Displacement 2500kg approx
Over 600 27s were built until 1974, some of which were exported abroad, but there are also instances of bare hulls being fitted out by other boatyards for private buyers, or for hire fleets on the Broads and Thames. At the time the prices for a bare hull shell was just £412, while the production, factory fitted boat was £2250. Some bare hull versions were fitted out by Richard Springfield on the river Thames at Maidenhead during the late 60s. Such versions are now referred to as the Springfield 27, these have different cabin side windows and an open plan interior. By the mid 1970s Seamaster had
expanded and was looking to replace the 27. Described as a ‘modern interpretation of the 27’, the 813 was introduced in 1972 and delivered a newer, more modern design by John Welch. It was also quite unconventional in its layout and was a lot cheaper to build. The characterful Seamaster front coachroof eyebrow had also disappeared. Today, Seamaster boats have a significant following, upheld by the active and growing Seamaster Owners Club. Seamaster 27s inhabit areas such as the Norfolk Broads, the Great Ouse, the Trent and the River Thames and, priced between
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Original Seamaster factory-finished boats were fitted out in deep, rich mahogany wood
£8-12k through the Seamaster Owners Club website and inland brokers, the Seamaster 27 could prove an affordable first-time purchase for a couple or family. Our friendly contact at the Seamaster Owners Club, Technical Advisor, Paul Killick, advises that looking for originality is key. When comparing the 27 to the later 813, he said “the 27 is heavier and fitted out with a varnished mahogany plywood finish and solid wood frames, which made them very labour intensive and costly to produce”. He continued “There is a lot to say about the 27, it was the best Seamaster built on looks and strength, all were constructed heavily and also have the advantage of having two small bilge keels to allow for drying out safely.” Indeed as this guide came together, MBO found out
that ‘as-original’, factory-fitted versions are rare to the market and hard to come by through normal broker channels, as they are still very much prized by their loving owners. Consequently MBO boarded two versions that were not entirely original, but still with the makings of excellent classic cruisers. Our featured 1970 factoryfitted version was brought back from the brink and beautifully revitalised in teak by its loving cabinet maker owner. However, for the sake of purity, and for fear of being shot by the helpful Seamaster Owners Club, in the nick of time we also stepped aboard an as-original, factory-fitted version, much loved and not for sale. Interior The accommodation on a mahogany-
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This 1970 factory-fitted version was updated to a teak and white finish by a loving, joiner owner
finished, factory-fitted boat consists of four berths in two separate sleeping areas, the forward cabin has a V-berth, and the saloon has an L-shaped dinette that converts into a double. There is a large galley unit and separate toilet compartment to starboard, and a storage dresser ahead of the seating on the port side. Variations and non-factory fitted versions may see the forward dresser unit taken out to create a larger U-shaped or twin bench dinette, while on one 1972 example, presumably a bare hull fit out, the toilet was on the opposite side. Access to the cabin area is via an offset two-part door and down two fairly steep steps. You will note, aboard the 1970 teak example, its owner has added a third, angled step, after finding the original steps
too steep. The saloon is brightly lit, thanks to the large side windows, and offers 6ft headroom. Immediately inside the cabin entrance, to starboard,a door leads into a compact toilet compartment, featuring just a sea or chemical toilet. However, owners may well have plumbed a sink in here, while charter versions are often tiled and modified with a draining compartment to allow for a shower, perfect for longer distance cruising.
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Ahead of the toilet lies the galley unit, that normally has a central gas oven, with a two-burner hob, and a single round metal sink forward, concealed under lifting worktop panels. There are storage cupboards at either end, plus additional storage under the deck void and oven. A 12-volt fridge was not standard on these 60s/70s cruisers, however these can be fitted in lieu of a galley cupboard, or out in the cockpit. For safety reasons, be wary of boats with old-style gas powered fridges, particularly on petrol-engined boats. On the starboard side, an L-shaped dinette area provides seating for four, or more, and converts into a double using the table and back rest cushions. Compartments in the seat bases house the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s batteries and storage. Ahead of the dinette there is a sideboard storage unit, which is a useful area to place a television.
To supplement the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 12-volt power, some may well have been updated with shorepower connectivity and a battery charger. A full-width, full-height bulkhead with a door separates the saloon from the forward cabin, to provide total privacy. Inside, two large pane, forward facing windows once again provide plenty of light, one of which doubles as an escape hatch. The cabin itself offers twin berths in a traditional V format, with enough space to dress with the door shut between them. There is storage under each bunk and a locker either side, one a wardrobe, cleverly recessed into the cabin bulkhead. Owners may also have created an infill to convert the V into a sizable double, measuring 6ft6ft 5in in length. The most important thing to look out for when exploring the interior of these
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1970 £10,000 (featured) Single Perkins 4017 48hp diesel Private sale Lying Essex 07826 641392
Sea or chemical toilet. Some boats have showers in here
aging cruisers are leaks. If window leaks are not addressed, rot to the surrounding mahogany cabin timber will almost certainly be the result, so be sure to lift corner curtains and inspect these areas thoroughly. Darkening (blackening), discolouration, or flaking paint (if the interior is painted) is a sure sign of leaks. Also check the cabin-cockpit bulkhead, as leaks from the windscreen can cause similar problems here. Note that the rubber seals on the forward cabin escape hatch front window can deteriorate. Finally, look for delamination of the timber around the bow sections. Cockpit & helm Boarding the boat, you enter the sunken, secure-feeling, wood-finished cockpit area via the side deck, through the canopy side screen. Useful wooden step-cum-storage boxes may well have been added to aid this descent. Immediately aft, a wooden, cushioned
1972 £9,495 (featured) Single BMC 38hp diesel TBS Boats Penton 01932 570055 www.tbsboats.com
1974 £10,999 Single Thornycroft 50hp diesel Allington Marina 01622 752057 www.allingtonmarina.com
1974 £9,500 Single Perkins 4017 48hp diesel Fish and Duck Marina 01353 648081 www.fishandduck.co.uk
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bench seat, able to seat three people, stretches across the transom. This also has the potential of becoming a fifth berth, or could be modified to create an occasional double. Some boats may well have provision for a slot-in table for entertaining and dining. Our carpenter owner had devised a small, clever coffee table that slides along the edge of the bench seat.
These boats were built in an era where hot water was not standard, a calorifier is often retrofitted underneath this aft bench to starboard, while to port there is a gas locker. Aft of the bench seat backrest is a covered area where the canopy can be stowed neatly. Hatches in the cockpit floor reveal the engine and huge storage areas either side. Underway or static, with the canopy
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Features of a characterful cruiser, including that lovable eyebrow, and timber toe and guardrails
down, the cockpit is a lovely place to be. Metal framework hoops provide support for a full standing, 6ft 7in high, fabric or vinyl canopy, which equally transforms the cockpit into a conservatory-like lounge space and provides shelter in inclement weather. Be sure to inspect the canopy, as replacement could be an un-factored expense. Moving forward, a wooden cabin bulkhead features a basic, era-reflective helm with pedestal seat on the port side, the latter being relatively high in order to see over the cabin roof, through the windscreen. On the classic, wood-finished console, engine dials and throttle are arranged on an angled dash. Modern electronics will usually be bracket mounted ahead, on the cabin roof, and there is a vertically-mounted wheel for the helmsman. A panel below this reveals the boats electrics. A second pedestal copilot seat may well have been added and mounted on top of the engine box. You will normally find the build plate mounted
close to the helm on the bulkhead, the number displayed being the total number of Seamasters built to date. On deck The 27 has 5-inch side decks beside the cockpit, which widen to 8-9 inches alongside the cabin, before narrowing at the cabin front and opening out onto the good-sized foredeck. The cabin roof is adorned with wooden rails to help you move about on deck, and is capped off with that distinctive, fiberglass eyebrow at the bow. This is not integral, so be sure to inspect this and its joins for damage. The foredeck is a good size, with the bow section enclosed by a pulpit rail. It is equipped with a single central cleat, with fairleads each side, a bow roller and an anchor, if fitted. Ensure that the boats characteristic timber toerails have been well cared for and protected, as these can suffer from rot or softness. The same relates to the decks and foredeck, which may have been
Motorboat Owner Š Digital Marine Media Ltd
95
painted. Be sure to inspect around the deck hardware and stanchion bases for stress cracking and delamination. Hull and Handling The boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hull has a hard chine and fine entry, levelling out towards a shallow vee at the transom. The successful use of a shallow propshaft tunnel in the Admiral was repeated on the singleengined 27â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to keep the engine and draft as low as possible. Its underwater hull profile also incorporates a moulded three-quarter length keel and small bilge keels, all of which are normally capped
with substantial sacrificial hardwood keel shoes. Paul Killick emphasised the importance of checking these for signs of wear and erosion, particularly the bottom edge where the bolts protrude. Note that the shoe could rot if not appropriately maintained and protected. Check that a boat has been lifted regularly and that underwater sections have been inspected and maintained on a regular basis. When inspecting the hull above the waterline, check for original gelcoat, any scratches and scuffs. Painting is common, but often rings alarm bells with surveyors. Whether DIY or professionally done, it
The 27 has a keel and bilge keels. Wooden hull and deck details will need regular maintenance 96
September 2020
JonMale
Cruising chameleon. Designed for inland, the 27’s sturdiness has reassured coastal-cruising owners
could mask repairs. Unpainted, its chunky, thick hull can usually be brought back to its original lustre. Protective rear timber hull strakes and quarter panels are an attractive feature, but will need to be maintained and protected. Again check these for rot or softness. Built primarily as a displacement inland cruiser, the heavily-built 27 is also quite capable of tidal estuary and coastal cruising in fair weather. Obedient is an understatement. The 27 is highly regarded for its close quarter abilities, with one owner of a single engine version boasting a ‘turning on a sixpence’ quality. Its keel and bilge keels bring directional stability and hydrodynamic resistance.
diesel, all of which were options available in twin configuration. For example, in the 1960s a 27 fitted with twin 1.5-litre diesels would have cost between £3,180-£3,700. Early boats are normally fitted with Ford/Wortham Blake engines, while later boats generally have BMC or Perkins engines. Twin engine versions are rare, with very few built. Both Perkins engines and BMC engines are regarded as easy to maintain and have good availability of spares. Ford, BMC and Perkins parts are often available via suppliers such as Lancing Marine. However, certain Wortham Blake parts are now a little more elusive to obtain. Motorboat Owner understands that manual gearboxes were
Engines Priced originally between £2-4k, the 27 was fitted with single or twin petrol or diesel engines, giving speeds up to 10 knots. It was available with a series of Wortham Blake petrol engines based on Ford blocks, in 1.2-litre (£2,250 1965), 1.5-litre (£2,800 in 1968) or 1.6-litre format. Diesel options were a BMC Captain 1.5-litre diesel (£2,500 in 1965), Perkins 4107 48hp or 4108 50hp diesel and a Wortham Blake Fisherboy 1.5-litre
A 38hp BMC Commander 2.2 diesel fitted to a 1972 version for sale through TBS Boats Penton
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
97
replaced by hydraulic versions after the first 12 months of the 27â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production. Paul Killick says spares are no longer available for Wortham Blake mechanical and hydrive gearboxes, with limited spares for the later gearboxes. For boats fitted with Perkins diesels, oil quality is key. Paul recommends oil flushing as a quick and easy prevention measure. Be aware, when Perkins uprated the 4107 to the 4108, the cylinder and cubic capacity stayed the same at 1,760cc. However, the 4107 has wet cylinder liners, while the 4108 has dry interference fit cylinders, improved head studs/bolts and a new cooling system. These Perkins engines can be a little noisy and rattly, so sound installation should be a consideration, but such versions are well regarded for their reliability. Usefully, Seamaster Owners Club has many of the original engine workshop manuals available to its members via the website (see a list of engine manuals here). Reengining is not uncommon, with one coast-going owner upgrading his 40-yearold engine to a modern 38hp Nanni N4.38 diesel for piece of mind. Most versions are likely to be single diesel and these are regarded as economical, reliable, and therefore are more desirable on the used market. However, safety issues aside, running a single petrol boat for genteel river cruising wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily break the bank, burning approximately a gallon an hour. They are also quieter than diesel powered stablemates. You will need to consider local riverside availability though, as fueling by cans is a chore and one that needs to be done very carefully. On single engine versions, the 27â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engine can be found under an engine box, or flush hatch, in the forward part of the
Most boats are single diesel. Pictured, a Perkins 4107 fitted to a 1970 factory fitted boat
cockpit. Lifting away the box or hatch, and another hatch immediately aft of this, reveals the engine and propshaft in its entirety, making it great for access. Boats fitted with twin engines have twin boxes and a larger fuel capacity of 123 litres, as opposed to the standard 55-litre tank seen on single engine versions. Buyers, especially first timers, are advised to have an engineer look over the engine(s) for them. Either way, ensure that regular maintenance has been carried out, and consider getting an engine and transmission oil analysis. Paul says one thing to watch out for is collapsed engine mounting rubbers, as these can cause wear to the stern tube due to the prop shaft being out of alignment. Again, these boats are mainly to be found on UK inland waterways where they will almost certainly require a Boat Safety Certificate
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September 2020
(BSS). This is another consideration for a buyer, as a boat will need to comply and be examined every four years. For the BSS, Paul Killick advises that early petrol engines with the Ford Pre Crossflow with original Solex side draft carburettors, must have a carburettor drip tray. Note, owners may have upgraded to a modern carburettor. A bilge blower is another important safety feature for petrol powered boats.
Conclusion Fifty years on, these archetypal cabin cruisers are every inch an iconic classic cruiser, and are still bringing their loving owners joy. The key to buying a 27 is to look for originality but, most importantly, one that has been well maintained by its owners and that can be stepped aboard and used. Age itself is not necessarily a concern, but you will need to be prepared to keep on top of maintenance. Of course a few 27s will have led hard, well-used lives, perhaps as ex hire boats. However, being a charter boat does not necessarily mean they are not well maintained, on the contrary, these are work horses that have had to deliver reliably, and will again. The cheapest level to buy a 27 is, of course, as a project, perhaps for sale on an internet auction site, with the notion to ‘make it your own’. Be wary of getting yourself into a project that may prove too time consuming and costly to complete. Anyone looking to purchase a 27 are advised to commission a full survey, and note that this may also be a requirement from most insurance companies before commencing cover.
Before buying any used boat, always employ the services of a IIMS or a YDSA accredited surveyor and, if you have any doubt about the engines, a separate engine survey by a suitably qualified person is recommended.
Family 813
1972-1981
Prices £6,950-£19,000
Length: 26ft 8in Beam: 9ft 1in This 4-berth modern successor to the 27 enjoyed similar popularity, with 400 built. Buy one (pictured) 1972 £14,500 www.valwyattmarine.co.uk
30
1970-1981
Prices £13,000-£27,000
Length: 30ft Beam: 11ft 6in Successful 4-6 berth aft cabin centre cockpit that was available as single or twin. Buy one (pictured) 1979 £23,500 www.allingtonmarina.com
23
1968-1975
Prices £6,000-£10,000
Length: 23ft 2in Beam: 9ft 2in Another definitive compact classic cruiser, offering 4 berths in a bright, open plan cabin. Buy one (pictured) 1974 £8,995 www.medwaymotorcruisers.com
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
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OWNERS REPORT
Roger & Dottie Matthews Seamaster 27 We have owned our Seamaster 27 ‘Delight’ for the past 16 years. When we bought her we didn’t know anything about boats, or anything about Seamasters, it was all by chance that we ended up with her. With the exception of a couple of alterations, she was a basic, as original, Seamaster-finished 27 with a petrol engine. We had planned, prior to buying her, to replace the engine straight away, as we felt, from a safety and reliability point of view, the 40-year-old engine could do with an upgrade. Changing the engine is a story in itself, as once again not knowing anything about boats our first attempt at this didn’t go so well. Six years in, when we knew a lot more, we bit the bullet and had a Nanni N4.38 installed and never looked back. When we started out we only cruised the Norfolk Broads, but about six years ago we were tempted to do a very small sea trip. Since then we have been hooked on cruising up and down the east coast from Great Yarmouth to the River Crouch, and all the rivers along the way. We have really got the ‘sea bug’ now and have done several alterations to the boat to make her more seaworthy, this includes increasing the fuel tank size, installing navigation aids, depth sounder, VHF radio, radar reflector, AIS and various safety aids. We have also been doing various RYA training courses.
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September 2020
New and Used
Boats for Sale 01189 403211
Creative Marine / Frolic 21 Pretty electric launch, overall cover, new batteries & charger
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
Corsiva / Coaster 640 SC
Striking boat, planing hull, teak effect floor, bimini, sundeck infill
Interboat / 6.5
Classically styled day boat, teak floor, bowthruster, fridge
Sheerline / 1070
Spacious well equipped cruiser, 6 berths, heating, low air draft
2012 | £15,000 | 21ft | 6.4m
2019 | £31,000 | 20.3ft | 6.2m
2017 | £45,500 | 21.7ft | 6.6m
Creative Marine / Frolic 31
Interboat / Intender 820
Broom / Ocean 40
Interboat / Intender 820
1999 | £69,950 | 31ft | 9.6m
NEW | €82,970 | 26.6ft | 8.1m
1989 | £85,000 | 40ft | 12.3m
2017 | £95,000 | 26.6ft | 8.1m
Elegant Gentleman’s launch, new batteries, winter cover
Spacious day boat, Oyster Grey hull, Esthec floor, seating for 9
Perfect for extended cruising, fully equipped, bowthruster, generator
FROM
£382,410 400 AFT CABIN
PRICE AS AT 1ST APRIL 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT
British built since 1980
1994 | £55,000 | 35ft | 10.7m
Stunning boat with 170hp Volvo, bowthruster, fridge, sink, toilet
FROM
INTENDER 820
£49,770
PRICE AS AT 1ST FEBRUARY 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT
Premium Dutch Quality
Enjoy the life you live www.valwyattmarine.co.uk | 01189 403211 | info@valwyattmarine.co.uk Val Wyatt Marine, Willow Marina, Willow Lane, Wargrave, Berkshire, RG10 8LH
New Boats | Used Craft | Moorings | Maintenance | Coffee Shop Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
101
OFFSHORE POWERBOATS LTD Exclusive UK, Channel Island & Ireland agents for Nimbus & Paragon Yachts. Approved & Preferred Axopar Boats UK dealer since 2014.
19’ AB INFLATABLES 570 2016
NIMBUS COMMUTER 9
Majorca
Lymington
€30,693 VAT Paid
£145,000 VAT Paid
NIMBUS 305 COUPÉ 2019
NIMBUS 320 COUPÉ 2003
Lymington
Yarmouth
£209,950 VAT Paid
NIMBUS 320 COUPÉ 2005 £89,950 VAT Paid Fowey
£84,750 VAT Paid
NIMBUS 4004 CARISMA 1992 £49,950 VAT Paid Lymington
Offshore Powerboats Ltd Lymington Yacht Haven, Kings Saltern Road, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 3QD +44 (0) 1590 677955 / enquiries@offshorepowerboats.co.uk / www.offshorepowerboats.co.uk
Solent Motor Yachts Boat Show 11 - 20 September 2020 Come and view these and more boats at the Hamble River Boat Yard this September.
Contact us to request a sales catalogue or enter your boat. Our dedicated team will be delighted to assist whether youʼre looking to buy or sell. We are experienced, knowledgeable and offer excellent rates of commission.
2017 Fairline Targa 48 GT
2012 Fairline Squadron 58
2019 Azimut Magellano 43
2009 Princess 58
£649,950
£645,000
£599,000
£585,000
2015 Eling E4 Ultimate
2016 Sessa C42
2018 Bavaria S40 HT
2014 Elan Power 42 Hard Top
£499,950
£389,950
£299,950
£229,950
2000 Princess 45
2011 Sealine SC35
2005 Sealine F43
1997 Atlantic 38
£169,950
£164,950
£164,950
£145,000
2007 Fairline Targa 38
2002 Fairline Targa 40
2012 Bavaria Sport 31
2008 Windy 33 Scirocco
£139,950
£119,950
£99,950
£94,950
2011 Bayliner 335 Cruiser
1992 Sealine 350 Statesman
1998 Seaward 25
2011 Rinker 246 Captiva Cuddy Cabin
£79,950
£69,950
£44,950
£32,500
Solent Motor Yachts
Scan for website
Hamble River Boat Yard, Bridge Road, Swanwick, Southampton, Hampshire SO31 7EB +44 (0) 1489 886663 +44 (0) 7917 148807 sales@solentmotoryachts.com www.solentmotoryachts.com
2021 Parker 920 Explorer max £ 125,667 VAT inc
2004 Sealine S42 £ 119,950 VAT paid
2018 Chris Craft Corsair 27 H/E £ 119,950 VAT paid
PARK920
ES3753
ES3664
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Salterns Marina, Poole
1992 Fairline Turbo 36 £ 79,950 VAT paid
2018 Parker 800 Pilothouse £ 69,950 VAT paid
1998 Sunseeker Superhawk 34 £ 64,950 VAT paid
ES3805
ENPA04
ES3789
Salterns Marina, Poole
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
2019 Falcon 650 RIB £ 77,950 VAT paid
2019 Williams Sport Jet 395 £ 34,950 VAT paid
1994 Carver 390 £ 77,950 VAT paid
ES3794
EWW26917
EB786
Salterns Marina, Poole
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
2015 Beneteau Antares 8.80 £ 64,950 VAT paid
2009 Sessa Key Largo 30 € 83,000 VAT paid
1995 Fairline Squadron 43 £ 99,950 VAT paid
EB3729
EB3622
EB3632
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Denia
Essex Marina, United Kingdom E&OE
HQ: 01702 258 885 Poole: 01202 797 777 Cala d'Or: +34 971 643 353
Open 7 days a week. Email: info@boats.co.uk
Essex: 01702 258 885 - essex@boats.co.uk Poole: 01202 797 777 - poole@boats.co.uk
OF TION C E L A SE
100's
E ABL L I A AV ATS O B OF
Classified
2013 Sealine SC35
Twin Volvo Penta D4 260hp diesels. Popular hardtop sportscruiser providing 4-6 berths with two separet cabins. Radar, AIS, diesel heating, bow and stern thrusters, generator. Lying Pwllheli
£169,995
01758 703013 sales@idealboat.com
Seamaster 30
An aft cockpit-wheelhouse cruiser, based on Seamaster 30 hull. Fitted with a single reconditioned Perkins 135hp shaftdrive diesel. Autopilot, bowthruster, hydraulic steering, electric anchor winch. Lying Rochford, Essex
£8,000
01702 332040
Motorboat Owner Affordable practical boating
1970 RLM Bahama 31
Twin Perkins 4107 diesels. 5-berth well maintained classic cruiser. Davits, diesel heating, new batteries and canopy, BSS 2022. Lying Wargrave, Thames
£15,500
01189 403211 info@valwyattmarine.co.uk
01189 403211
2010 Ribtec 1050 Cabin Rib Gt2 £ 99,950 VAT paid
Essex Marina, United Kingdom PARK800W
BRO
BRO
STO
KER
KER
CK
AGE
AGE
2019 Parker 690 Day Cruiser £ 78,738 VAT paid
1994 Carver 390 £ 77,960 VAT paid
EB3707
ENPA08
EB786
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Interboat / 19
Moonraker / Super 36
Intercruiser / 28 Cabin
1996 | £19,500 | 27.8ft | 8.5m
2010 | £26,500 | 19ft | 6m
1989 | £40,000 | 36ft | 11m
2010 | £75,000 | 28ft | 8.5m
Sheerline / 950 Tri Cabin
BRO
KER
CK
Fantastic day boat with low hours, solid teak floor, bimini
Aft cabin cruiser with twin diesels on shafts, bowthruster
KER
AGE
AGE
Creative Marine / Frolic 31
Broom / Ocean 40
2002 Cranchi 39 Endurance £ 69,950 VAT paid
2009 Bayliner 320/335 £ 69,950 VAT paid
EB3677
EB3699
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Elegant electric launch, new batteries 2019, winter cover
Perfect for extended cruising, fully equipped, bowthruster, generator
Excellent specification, aft cabin, bow & stern thrusters, heating
1999 | £79,950 | 31ft | 9.6m
1989 | £85,000 | 40ft | 12.3m
2009 | £110,000 | 32ft | 9.8m
400 AFT CABIN KER
1999 Fairline Targa 30 £ 62,950 VAT paid
2008 Bimax Genesi 930 £ 59,950 VAT paid
Cala d'Or, Mallorca
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
ES3719
EB3647
£49,770
PRICE AS AT 1ST FEBRUARY 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT
Premium Dutch Quality
2005 Chris Craft Corsair 25 £ 54,950 VAT paid Essex Marina, United Kingdom EB3672
E&OE
Open 7 days a week. Email: info@boats.co.uk
FROM
INTENDER 820
AGE
AGE
Essex: 01702 258 885 - essex@boats.co.uk Poole: 01202 797 777 - poole@boats.co.uk
PRICE AS AT 1ST APRIL 2020 EX WORKS, INC 20% VAT
British built since 1980
BRO
KER
CK
£382,410
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
BRO
STO
Haines / 320
4-6 berths, equipped galley, heating, folding arch & windscreen
2000 | £79,000 | 31ft | 9.5m
FROM
Essex Marina, United Kingdom ENPA04
Lovely example, large cockpit and only 102 hours, bowthruster
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
BRO
STO
2018 Parker 800 Pilothouse £ 72,950 VAT paid
Boats.co.uk.............................................................................................. Finnmaster / Ideal Boat................................................................. JC Marine Services................................................................................. MDS Battery......................................................................................... Offshore Powerboats.......................................................................... Parker Poland...................................................................................... Saxdor Yachts / Ideal Boat................................................................. Seabridge Marine................................................................................ Selva....................................................................................................... Simrad..................................................................................................... Val Wyatt Marine................................................................................ Vetus.................................................................................................... XO Boats / Ideal Boat........................................................................
Bayliner / 2655
Great example with 2 double berths, Mercruiser 250hp
1997 Princess V40 £ 89,950 VAT paid
HQ: 01702 258 885 Poole: 01202 797 777 Cala d'Or: +34 971 643 353
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
2019 Parker 800 Weekend £ 98,292 VAT inc
South Coast EB3325
Essex Marina, United Kingdom
Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
CK
AGE
AGE
Boats for Sale
STO
KER
KER
Advertisement Index
New and Used
BRO
BRO
1995 Fairline Squadron 43 £ 99,950 VAT paid Essex Marina, United Kingdom EB3632
F ON O ECTI A SEL
100's
E ABL AIL S AV OAT OF B
Enjoy the life you live www.valwyattmarine.co.uk | 01189 403211 | info@valwyattmarine.co.uk Val Wyatt Marine, Willow Marina, Willow Lane, Wargrave, Berkshire, RG10 8LH
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105
Owners Directory i Arvor Boat Owners Club
Dawncraft Owners Club & Forum
www.arvorboatowners.co.uk
www.dawncraftowners.com
Aquastar Owners Club
Dell Quay Ranger website
www.aquastarclub.co.uk
www.dellquayranger.supanet.com
Atlanta Boat Owners
Electric Boat Association
www.atlantaboats.co.uk
www.electric-boat-association.org.uk
Bavaria Owners’ Association
Elysian Boat Owners
www.bavariaowners.co.uk
www.elysianboats.co.uk
Bayliner Owners Club
Fairey Owners Club
www.baylinerownersclub.org
www.faireyownersclub.co.uk
Beneteau Owners’ Association
Fairline Owners Club
www.beneteau-owners-association.org.uk
www.fairlineownersclub.com
Birchwood Classics
Fjord Club
www.birchwoodclassics.com
www.fjordclub.com
Broom Owners Club
Fletcher Owners Group
www.broomowners.com
www.facebook.com/groups/4011883149
Chaparral Boat Owners Forum
Freeman Cruisers Forum
forum.chaparralboats.com
freemanboats.forumer.com
Classic Motor Boat Association
Freeman Owners Club
www.cmba-uk.com
www.freemancruisers.com
Classic Offshore Powerboat Club
Freeman Cruisers
www.classicoffshore.com
freeman-cruisers.forumotion.co.uk
Cleopatra Owners Club
Haines Owners Club
mycleopatra.ning.com
www.hainesmarine.co.uk/owners.php
Coronet Cruisers
Hampton Safari Boat Club
freespace.virgin.net/simon.sherlock/index.htm
hamptonsafaribc.webplus.net
Corvette Motorboat Association
Hardy Owners Club
corvettemotorboat.wordpress.com
Cranchi Owners Club & Forum cranchiownersclub.com
106
www.hardy-owner.org.uk
Jeanneau Owners Network
www.jeanneau-owners.com
September 2020
Owners Club missing? Contact us at
Marex Owners Club
editorial@motorboatowner.co.uk
Sea Ray Owners Club
www.clubsearay.com
www.marexownersclub.co.uk
Sealine Forum
Mariah Owners Club www.mariahownersclub.com
www.sealineforum.co.uk
Maxum Owners Club
Sealine Owners Club
www.maxumownersclub.com
www.sealineowners.com
Microplus Boats
Seamaster Club
www.microplus.dk
www.seamasterclub.org
Monterey Fourm
Seaward Owners Club
forums.montereyboats.com
www.seawardboat.com/club.html
Moonraker Owner’s Club
Shadow Boats - Victoria Shadow Association
www.moonraker.dk/eng_index.htm
www.victoriashadow.co.uk
Nauticus
Shetland Owners Association
www.nauticus.co.uk
www.shetlandowners.co.uk/shetland/
Nelson Boat Owners Club
Star Craft Owners Club
www.nelsonboatownersclub.co.uk
www.bates-starcraft.co.uk
Nimbus Owners Club UK
Storebro Passion
www.nimbusowners.co.uk
www.storebropassion.de
Norman Appreciation Society
Sunseeker Owners Club
www.normanboats.co.uk
sunseekerownersclub.com
Classic Princess facebook group
Viking Owners Club
Click here for Facebook group
www.vikingowners.org.uk
Regal Owners Forum
Warrior Boats Owners Club
www.warriorboatsownersclub.co.uk
www.regalownersforum.com
Relcraft Boaters Group
Advertise with us
www.relcraftboatersgroup.co.uk
Rinker Owners Club www.rinkerboats.com/owners-club
Rodman Owners Club
www.facebook.com/rodmanownersclub
Classified adverts from £25
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motorboatowner.co.uk Motorboat Owner © Digital Marine Media Ltd
2015 Beneteau Antares 8.80
£64,950 01702 258885 email address
107
L K what I saw
Spotted something weird, wonderful, or interesting on your travels?
@
send your images to us at
editorial@
motorboatowner.co.uk
Portunas sunset
Sunset reflections on a Fairline Phantom 38 SPOTTED! by Claire Frew
Orwell delight
The sun dips over the Orwell and a Seamaster 27 SPOTTED! by Roger Matthews
Bathing beasts
Cows bathe at Bourne End, River Thames SPOTTED! by Sue Sharp
Never enough toys
This Sealine has plenty to play with at Lymington SPOTTED! by Penny Rawle 108
September 2020
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