February 9, 2009

New Model: Marex 370 Aft Cabin Cruiser

Norwegian builder Marex presents a fabulous new boat with the 370 Aft Cabin Cruiser, filled with innovative unheard features that really set her apart in her size, and much deserved takes also the price of European Powerboat of the Year during its World debut in Dusseldorf show few weeks ago. The 370 Aft Cabin Cruiser is a boat which hits you with its beauty too! It is a Sport Cruiser that makes you feel on a bigger boat with solutions unseen in this size and not only: like the aft cabin layout, its hard top which is so well proportioned, and last the deep all round side decks. Yes you can start saying for 11 metres it has it all and much more. Accommodation layout works well too anywhere and anyplace. The forward lower deck is reserved for the master cabin with island double berth, and two separate rooms for the head and shower for maximum privacy and flexibility. On the other end you have the fabulous aft cabin offering a double and a single berth with a nice expandable table in between too. The aft cabin also overwhelms you with natural light thanks a moulded window up top. Main living of the boat takes center stage under the hardtop with a c-shaped settee dinette and galley opposite. C-shaped settee has also a transformable forward part which thanks to simple movement of the back rest becomes a nice view forward lounging seat in navigation. The area above the aft cabin which is part of the living has also a nice spacious sunbed. Power and propulsion is where Marex gambles the most taking the economical choice of a single engine installation, a Volvo Penta D6 of 370 or 435hp. While this may seem unusual for an 11 metre I remind that a double engine installation looses 30% of its power! Add that number in fuel consumption costs and double it for maintenance and this choice will seem an easy one too. For the propulsion Marex uses a traditional reliable straight shaft, but also here the Norwegian builder breaks the rules being the first European production builder to use the famed Seatorque shaft which give reduced noise, vibration and an 8% in performance efficiency versus a conventional system.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.37 m (37.3ft)
Beam - 3.50 m
Draft - 1.09 m
Weight - 6500 kg
Fuel Capacity - 650 l
Water Capacity - 300 l
Max Persons - 10
Accommodation - 5 berths in 2 cabins
Engine - 1 x Volvo Penta D6 370hp, D6 435hp
Propulsion - Seatorque straight shaft with mid positioned engine
Speed - max 29 knots, cruising 25 knots estimated
Hull Shape - planning with shaft propulsion
Project - Marex Seaway, E.Aalrud, JJ Design and E.Thorup

February 8, 2009

Project: Bertram 800

A new chapter in Bertram history, as this legendary US builder introduces the 800, soon to be new flagship of the fleet and its largest built to date. After years of advanced research and development, Bertram has decided to take luxury to the next level and build a sport fishing yacht of remarkable proportions, leading its range into the future of sport fishing. The 800 will deliver extreme power performance of a sport fishing vessel while exuding ultimate luxury, adhering to customer requests from all the world for various uses that are preferred in a broad range of countries across the globe. Bertram 800 will feature new technology, like advanced forward and hull window design that is constructed with multiple layers of tempered glass. The forward window design actually brightens the interior of the salon while the hull windows are reinforced directly into the fiberglass hull for optimal hull strength. This state of the art window technology was exclusively designed and tested by Advanced Yacht Technology to resist the roughest fishing conditions across the oceans. At high speeds, the rapid formation and collapse of vapor pockets from the water can cause cavitation, a common cause of structural damage to propellers for any boat manufacturer. AYT has successfully identified how to modify the struts in order to dissipate cavitation's, thereby minimizing maintenance issues, gaining better fuel economy and enhancing engine performance. The 800 will also feature the exclusive ARG Anti-rolling Gyro technology, suppressing rolling motion and reduces rolling angle by up to 50 percent, enabling guests to enjoy smoother and more pleasant rides. In order to maximize all space on board and create more comfortable living space in both the interior and exterior of the yacht, the 800 has been designed with a generous, extended cockpit that provides ample space for many activities or entertainment on board. The cockpit is configured for an L-shaped mezzanine lounge seating with a fixed cockpit table, becoming an essential entertainment and relaxation area. A supplementary day head will also be integrated into the main salon level for easier use from guests in the cockpit. This yacht will be endowed with beautiful white oak wood as a standard and optional exotic African mahogany for the interiors. The ultra luxurious full beam master will offer sweeping views with its large porthole windows, which surround the master suite. The 800 will feature a four cabin layout and will offer multiple optional plans for the master staterooms than can be customized upon request. Layouts offer multiple crew cabin quarters that can also be modified. The first, an aft crew cabin for two, can be accessed from the cockpit with additional entry to the engine room. Second optional crew cabin is located forward of the galley, which is perfect to accommodate a hostess, or personal chef. For those who would rather opt for extra storage space, this optional crew cabin can also be converted into a large walk-in pantry. This Super Sportfish vessel will be built for supreme sport fishing and Bertram is known to make fishing a comfortable experience, providing a fully equipped yacht for all needs. Longitudinal fish boxes will be placed next to the fighting chair to easily store any catch of the day and larger rod locker storage on the port side will be incorporated under the spiral staircase for access from the cockpit mezzanine area. Breaking into the future of sport fishing, the Bertram 800 will undoubtedly set a new precedent for the sport fishing industry.

February 6, 2009

New Model: Outer Reef 63

Outer Reef launched the new 63 model in the fall of 2008, what is an interesting addition to this US builder feel big medium range explorer yachts line, presenting here a comfortable live aboard interior offering an upper deck of spacious proportions, and a lower accommodation area with 3 cabins and 2 heads. The inside of the 63 welcomes you in the lounging saloon with an l-shaped settee to port with opposite 2 movable chairs, up 2 steps you find a well sized open plan galley to port, and further to fore you come to the interior small ship like helm station with a central single seat with lounging 6 people l-shaped settee behind it for guest views during the navigation. In this fore part of the main deck you also have the two stairways for the cabins and the flybridge. Standard lower accommodation deck features a mid-ship full beam en-suite owners stateroom, a VIP cabin to fore, guest head and a third bunk cabin. Saying all this it is worth to note that all this is semi custom, so what you read above can all be changed really to suit your needs. An interesting feature of the 63 is also the low to the water fish fighting deck aft, surely more appreciated by US buyers then European ones, who like fishing normally as much as they love boating. Power for the 63, is by twin Caterpillar C9Acert 503hp, which give a 20 knots top speed and max all time cruising of 17 knots. While the Outer Reef 63 can be driven at lower economical displacements speeds, the above surely is not bad at all especially when your barometer starts heading down and you want to take your beloved ones in harbour. The 63 is Outer Reef current smaller model, but a 58 and 60 are in building schedule and if the feel big properties like wide side decks and comfortable aft and forward decks are your thing this builder surely deserves a top look. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 17.37 m (63.1ft)
Waterline Length - 15.98 m
Beam - 5.11 m
Draft - 1.47 m
Displacement - 35681 kg
Fuel Capacity - 3785 l
Water Capacity - 1136 l
Engines - 2 x Cat C9Acert 503hp
Speed - 20 knots max, 17 knots cruising
Construction - hand laid FRP hull, with foam PVC sandwich above waterline
Certification - CE A

Project: Nordic Tugs 26

Last produced in 1997, the Nordic Tug 26 is back by popular demand! With its nostalgic appeal, rugged construction and notable fuel economy, the “fuel-stingy” Nordic Tug 26 became an immediate success in the marine community at its debut in 1980. The Nordic Tug 26 today is as fuel efficient as its predecessor. With a 110 hp Volvo D-3 diesel engine with electronic controlled high pressure common rail fuel system, take a leisurely cruise and burn a meager 1 gph at 6.0 knots, or for quick weekend getaways, take her up to top speeds of 15 knots. With room to sleep 4, including a forward stateroom with a wet head plus a convertible salon settee, the Nordic Tug 26 is a great choice for couples and small families. The semi-displacement hull provides a smooth ride and can handle challenging waters as only a Nordic Tug can. Its full keel provides precise tracking with resistance to drift or roll. A heavy-duty stainless steel shoe protects the propeller and rudder, while the hard chine adds to ride stability and reduces roll while at anchor. With full visibility from the pilothouse and direct access to the deck on both sides, solo handling is a breeze. The new Nordic Tug 26, featuring the seaworthiness and fuel economy that started it all, it's the rebirth of a classic.

February 5, 2009

New Model: Horizon Elegance 60 Open

The innovative new Horizon Elegance 60 Open finally made her debut during the Dusseldorf boat show. Sleek, sporty and performing this is the 60 Open which showed good result on the water with maximum speeds in excess of 30 knots during her first trial. The Elegance 60 Open is a new breed for the Horizon Elegance shipyard, which devoted a whole year of effort to this project, the concept drawings and 3D images before successfully transforming it into a real object incorporating the intricate details that could not have been considered in a drawing plan. Stepping inside the Elegance 60 Open one is presented with an entirely new and fresh look with a layout and interior design which creates a contemporary and hi-tech atmosphere. During the daytime, one can enjoy plenty of natural light penetrating the wide open surrounding windows and the overhead sunroof. At night, blue light glowing through the floating helm station creates the surreal feeling of driving through space. The salon area features a cozy sitting area linked to a functional wet bar. Behind the bar is the innovative floating helm station equipped with three electrical adjustable helm chairs completing the relaxing and entertaining lounge area. The lower deck of the new Elegance 60 Open features three fashionable yet comfortable staterooms and a fully equipped galley. The thoughtful interior planning and unique material selection reflect the dedication to exquisite craftsmanship and to continuous improvement. The new Horizon Elegance 60 Open proves the search for ultimate perfection and innovation to fulfill the desires of the market.
Technical Data:
Length - 16.7 m (54.7ft)
Beam - 4.8 m
Displacement - 22,000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 2200 l
Water Capacity - 700 l
Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 2 x MAN V8-CR 900hp

Project: Sealine T60 Aura

A bit late on this as it was launched officially in mid January, but it seemed like the new T60 upscale version name Aura was all about inside, but Sealine have also modified outside for there new flagship model with the change coming from the radar arch now looking back and giving a more streamlined look versus the forward facing of the standard T60. For the rest the T60 Aura, thank to renowned Conran has been united with functional inventiveness and fresh design language inside. Light and space are the two elements here, and Conran emphasizes this in the interior of the T60 Aura creating an uplifting atmosphere with natural oak wood, light finishes and furnishings throughout bringing the freshness of outside in. The experience is also heightened by long clean lines and floating, linear forms redefining traditional spaces and blurring boundaries to create an open-plan interior that allows you to enjoy an airy, luxurious environment.

February 4, 2009

New Model: Nord West 370 SportsTop

To give owners a longer cruising season, Swedish boat builder Nord West presents the 370 SportsTop, hard top version of the fall 2008 launched 370 Sports. This SportsTop version adds more protection to the cockpit, albeit with a large opening sun roof section to enjoy the sunny moments or a nice star viewing night sky. Otherwise she is all-identical to the 370 Sport, with the same exceptional performance and the option choice of joystick Volvo IPS propulsion or a more performing stern drive. Accommodation onboard is a full sized owner’s cabin with a large double island berth, mid-ships is a spacious guest cabin with twin child berths or a large double, and a very comfortable sofa in the saloon converts to an additional double berth. The cockpit also follows the good layout of the Sport version with the c-shaped settee and spacious wetbar opposite astern, although this could have been improved to suit the hardtop needs better. Seems this a fault in many sub 40 feet hard tops, especially those originating from an open sport cruiser design, but for the rest this is a great boat and deserves the top attention if looking for an 11 metre with more weather protection boat.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.8 m (38ft)
Beam - 3.5 m
Draft - 1.2 m
Displacement - 9 t
Fuel Capacity - 800 l
Water Capacity - 435 l
Accommodation - 2 cabins, 7 berths
Engine - 2 x Volvo Penta D4 260hp, D4 300hp, D6 370hp
Propulsion - Volvo sterndrive, Volvo IPS400 forward looking duoprop pods
Design - Benny Martinsson, JIB Design

February 3, 2009

Propulsion: ZF Hybrid System

ZF Marine, in cooperation with the Ferretti Group, has developed a hybrid propulsion system for pleasure craft. Ferretti, renowned for building high quality motor yachts, worked together with ZF Marine to develop a "green" motor yacht which can cruise for long periods without using the Diesel engines, but an electric propulsion system fed by battery power. This means a considerable saving in fuel and the elimination of the "greenhouse" gases responsible for global warming. In addition, yacht owners will appreciate the smooth, quiet operation afforded by electric motors instead of Diesel engines. This should indeed appeal to all sea-lovers who prefer the peace and quiet of clean, silent propulsion when cruising in restricted waters or maneuvering in harbors. The joint development with ZF Marine, a company well known for innovation and technology, means Ferretti has a partner with an equivalent reputation for innovation and quality products. The ZF transmission system incorporates a hybrid module with integrated clutches and an electric motor powered by lithium batteries for "green" mode operation. A small generator set can extend the power supply from 3 hours (batteries only) to 5 hours. During Diesel propulsion mode, the battery can be simultaneously charged, since the electric motor can function alternatively as an electric generator or a propulsion unit. Looking beyond a standard Diesel-Electric propulsion system which uses a Diesel engine to generate power for the electric motor, this innovative, parallel-hybrid propulsion system offers a Diesel-Electric function as only one of five operational modes. The system combines the reliability of traditional Diesel power, with the ability to cruise in 'Zero Emission Mode', driven by two 70 kW, battery-powered, synchronous, electric motors. The actual hybrid module is suitable for yachts with Diesel engines from 800 to 1400 hp @ 2300 rpm, together with the appropriate ZF Marine gearbox.

February 2, 2009

New Model: Galeon 325 HTO

Galeon presents the 325 HTO, hard top version of there 325 launched in the fall of 2008. This is an interesting proposition from the growing Polish builder, offering a medium entry level Sport Cruiser with hard top, giving the bonus of all weather protection to two thirds of the cockpit being it sun or rain. Worth to note that the c-shaped settee in the cockpit deck, is also mostly under the hard top, protecting this vital entertainment area for boats of this size and type. This is a much left detail in minus 40 feet sport cruisers, with most like the case for the 325 born out first as a fully open version. Apart the hard top the new HTO keeps the successful properties of the open version, from the 2 cabin single head convertible saloon interior, excellent handling thanks to renowned designer Tony Castro, and last the vacuum bagging construction which saves 20% in weight versus a conventional built method. This new model shows the attention of the Polish Galeon which continues to upgrade its line not only in bigger boats and better quality builds, but also by offering innovative and well designed products in all sizes.
Technical Data:
LOA - 10.4 m (34.1ft)
Beam - 3.35 m
Draft - 0.81 m
Displacement - 6200 kg light
Fuel Capacity - 750 l
Water Capacity - 200 l
Max Persons - 8
Engines - 2 x 190hp up to 2 x 320hp Petrol or Diesel
Speed - 40 knots max

February 1, 2009

Project: RCustom 105

With a view to meeting with market trends toward larger boats based on individualized designs, Gruppo InRizzardi seeks to expand its range to meet with demanding client wants by creating the RCustom brand. With this new brand the Italian company looks to new horizons as it aims at securing avant guarde constructions of a major appeal to a continually evolving market. At their Gaeta facilities this new idea is coming true whose design philosophy originates from specific buyer requests, as the pencil and creativity of naval architect Tommaso Spadolini have interpreted with hull design by Umberto Tagliavini from Marine Design & Services. Construction of this yacht is at an advanced stage and launch is expected in 2009. RCustom 105 features contemporary style forms and originates from the client’s desire for an exclusive boat met with by the mastery of a designer who was able to conceptualize a super performance wide body yacht, and the support of reliable builders who provided the expertise to realize it. Thanks to large interior spaces and generous volumes as were enabled by a wide body design, RCustom 105 offers largely more livability than standard designs of the same size. Most favored by this are midship spaces on the main deck and full beam master stateroom, forward also on the main deck. Four guest staterooms, all with separate facilities, and crew accommodation make up the lower deck. There are no deck gangways but sidewalks formed by elongated stairs from aft that surmount the main deck and slope down to forward. This architectural choice substantially influences RCustom’s aesthetics. The effect of this arched, soft line, the boat’s profile recalls the dorsal shape of a fish, in an ideally perfect integration with the marine environment. Dynamic forms also emphasize an aggressive line globally. InRizzardi’s RCustom 105 will be equipped with new MTU engines that, also based on the efficiency of a remarkably hydrodynamic hull, will deliver speed of maximum 38 knots. Excellent performance for a boat of this displacement.