December 30, 2008

Sunseeker Hits Reef Then Partly Sinks

When Volvo introduced its revolutionary forward looking IPS pod drive a couple of years ago its marketing machine concentrated on three important factors: easy handling thanks to the joystick, better performance consumption with less horsepower, and that it was safer then anything due to a water tight system in case the unexpected happened. These pictures shown on the Thailandboating website above show an IPS pod set up failure which nearly sank a fairly new fourteen meter Sunseeker sport cruiser with only ten hours on its engine clocks in December 2008 in Thailand.   This failure happened due to the rubber gasket which is supposed to block water from coming in, and go in operation if the drives are sheared off. In this case the drives did not shear off and the gasket did not work, and only the water tight bulkhead prevented this boat from totally sinking.  Still the consequences are that all the electronics and generator set will need changing, and the engines thanks to some lucky and fast yard repairs can be rebuilt.
The Sunseeker in this IPS pod failure is a Portofino 47 model.  Introduced in 2007, the Portofino 47 is a hard top sport cruiser with two-ensuite double cabins and was offered with shaft drive or IPS pod propulsion option.  The Portofino 47 came as a replacement to the 2003 introduced Portofino 46, with softer lines and the addition of a hard-top, although an open version was also produced.

Propulsion: Seatorque Boss Enclosed Shaft System STM3 Series

The Seatorque Boss Enclosed Shaft System was introduced in 2006, but having been contacted by UK representative H4 Marine, it was decided to review this innovative propulsion system representing power development efficiency. The Boss Enclosed Shaft System has been designed in house by Seatorque’s engineering department, and the system offers ease of installation, effortless mechanical alignment, reductions in labour cost, and a 2 year or 250 hour limited warranty. With boat builders continually looking for time saving solutions during production Seatorque believes that the Boss Enclosed Shaft System can offer considerable savings and benefits. The boat owner gets a quieter boat with less service and maintenance. In short the advantages to the manufacturer and boat owner are multiple including: noise vibration reduction, routine maintenance minimised, no dripping stuffing box with bilges kept dry, increased axial stiffness greatly reducing the level of damage or risk of bending a shaft during a grounding, engine and transmission service life increased, overall propulsion efficiency improved by approximately 8% allowing for greater fuel economy at cruising speeds with increased operational range, improved hull harmonics due to reduced vibrations helps attract fish for the sportsman, construction costs slashed by 2/3Rd's, elimination of any intermediate strut cutlass bearings, no installation alignment difficulties, no post delivery engine re-alignment issues, total drive train supplier consolidation for the builder and is suitable for power and sail boats. The Seatorque Boss Enclosed Shaft System STM3 is available in 8 sizes from 100 up to the 400 model. So far its has been used by some renowned builders included Donzi Roscioli Yachts, Egg Harbor, Ocean Yachts and Fleming.

December 28, 2008

New Model: Viking 82 Convertible

The new much waited 82 Convertible, Viking's brand new flagship model which will be joined by three additional new launches, all to be premiered at the 2009 Miami Show in February, with a sneak preview at the Viking Service Center, January 30-31, 2009. The Viking 82 Convertible represents another ground breaking design that Viking produces thanks to its in-house team and the expertise of thousands hours racked up by its demo program. The profile of the Viking 82 is as recognizable at the dock of a yacht club as it is on the 1,000 fathom line. The aggressively raked stem, the gorgeous sheer and the symphony of soft, seamless curves are a true feast for the eyes. The foredeck, for example, is flush with a gentle crown, which hints at the substantial headroom below in each of the four staterooms. Freeboard forward is nearly nine feet, yet a modest three feet in the cockpit, which makes it safe and effortless for the crew to release fish unharmed. With a maximum beam of more than 21 feet, a lesser design would look chunky and clunky, but the Viking 82 wears its measurements like a runway model. The substantial beam allows an epic salon, entered through an electric sliding door, and features an L-shaped sofa excellent to enjoy relaxed entertainting, a dinette to port, and bar stools at the granite topped galley counter to starboard what creates a relaxing format practical environment. The galley is super yacht class with gourmet appliances and stowage capabilities to cruise for weeks on end. A companionway to port leads to the four staterooms, plus private crew quarters for two, which also includes a head with shower and access to the engineroom and cockpit. In the master suite located amidships for maximum comfort and privacy, there is a king-size bed with stowage below, a settee, a dressing table, an entertainment system, a chest of drawers and an oversized fiberglass shower stall in the head. An offset companionway leads to three additional staterooms, each with a private head and shower. Due to the generously sized staterooms, there is flexibility in the sleeping accommodations with both queen and double berth arrangements. The aft deck boasts 235 square feet of working space, and features Viking signature mezzanine deck beneath the flying bridge overhang for protection against sun and spray. The open flying bridge features a center helm console with electronics that stow neatly beneath clear acrylic panels for all-weather use and dual radio boxes provide additional room. Port and starboard bench seats conceal rod stowage below and built-in freezer and refrigeration space is standard ahead of the helm station. Three Murray Products helm seats with teak ladder backs and stainless-steel hardware and pedestals provide comfort and superb visibility. The Viking 82 Convertible will be powered with MTU Series2000 diesels affording a cruise speed of 30 knots and a top end in the mid-30 knot range depending upon engine selection, load and sea conditions.
Technical Data:
LOA - 25.83 m (82.9ft)
Beam - 6.81 m
Draft - 1.68 m
Weight - 71532 kg gross
Fuel Capacity - 11735 l
Water Capacity - 1779 l
Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabin, 2 crew berths
Engines - 2 x Cat C32A 1825hp, MTU Series2000V16 M91 2030hp, M93 2400hp

December 26, 2008

Projects: Maritimo A55 Aegean Flybridge, Maritimo 73 Cruising Motoryacht

Maritimo the renowned Austrailian Yacht builder unveils two more projects, aiming to bring it more at the forefront of the yacht building industry. The first of these new projects is from the new Aegean Flybridge series motor yacht line. This new line should launch its first model, presented on PowerYacht Project a few weeks back, the A60 in the coming days. With the new A55, Maritimo follows the concept used for the construction of the A60, using the Sports Cabriolet series hull lines, with a different superstructure adding up top a sleek flybridge which takes some hints of European style, but with a down under unique flare in the final shape. So far Maritimo have given little or no information for this new model, although expect a 3 cabin yacht with twin 670hp Cummins engines as is for the C55 Sports Cabriolet. The other much waited project is Maritimo’s new flagship the 73 Cruising Motoryacht. Weighing in at about 50 tonnes, the new Maritimo flagship stretches out to more than 24 metres, boasting a beam that exceeds the overall length of similar yachts. The Maritimo 73 Cruising Motoryacht is the largest vessel ever built by the company and is scheduled to be unveiled during the 2009 Sydney Boat Show. Everything about the new flagship is massive, call it a small ship, or big yacht if you like. Her standard power is a pair of Caterpillar C32 marine diesels, each generating 1550hp, with a smaller twin 1000hp C18 Caterpillar option available. The huge C32 Caterpillar engines give the new Maritimo flagship a top speed in the region of 36knots and a cruising of 30 knots, with the smaller C18 giving a respectable top speed of 28 knots. Caring for the engines will be no problem, thanks to a meticulously planned engine room offering full height headroom and ample space for routine maintenance procedures. Accommodation will be a fully air conditioned interior, offering the comforts of a home, with a superb galley and spacious luxurious spaces. The owners master suite for example will boast his and hers en-suites.

December 24, 2008

New Model: Apreamare 44

The new Apreamare 44 continues this Italian builders success, who with the help of Victory Design offer a novelty which shouts tradition but takes hints of the recent models developments, read stern similar to the 64. As has been for Apreamare traditional Gozzo cruisers the sober elegant lines make the functional upper deck immediately recognizable thanks to the wide passageways, the settee to fore, huge bow sunbed, and the settee aft which if desired can transform into an additional sun lounger aft. Lower accommodation deck is reserved for the two spacious cabins and a galley: offering an owners cabin forward, a guest cabin with a single and a double berth, and two spacious en-suite heads, of which the one in the guest cabin featuring double doors to be used also as day bath. The airy l-shaped galley also distinguishes itself for its functional space offering a double wash basin worktop, and a well sized fridge freezer. The main deck saloon offers a c-shaped settee which can transform to a double berth thanks to the adjustable table, the helm station to starboard, and l-shaped unit. A crew cabin aft is also available. Power for Apreamare 44 is by twin Cummins of 480hp or 550hp, which give top speeds from 30 up to 32 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 13.5 m (44.3ft)
Length Waterline - 11 m
Beam - 4.51m
Draft - 1.27 m
Displacement - 16 t dry, 19.6 t loaded
Fuel Capacity - 1650 l
Water Capacity - 510 l
Max Persons - 12
Engines - Cummins QSB5.9-6L 480hp, QSC8.3-6L 550hp
Speed - 32 knots max, 29 knots cruising with 550hp
Range - 270 nautical miles
Project - Victory Design
Hull Shape - vee with 15 degrees deadrise aft
Certification - CE B

December 22, 2008

Project: Ilver 42 Mirable Open

A legendary model from Italian builder Ilver, which after presenting the first update of the Mirable with the 42 HT version in Genoa 2007, continues its evolution with the project of the Open version, aimed at replacing the 41 Mirable after 10 years of successful production. The new 42 Mirable Open is identical to the HT version in function, giving the much sought 3 double cabins and the well sized galley on the main deck. What you will be missing is the hard top, but thanks to this the Open version has classy sporty lines as tradition from the Mirable model since its launch in 1991, offering good looks but also spacious space below. Power will be from twin stern drive propelled, Volvo D6 at 330hp, or the bigger 370hp option.

December 20, 2008

New Model: Fairline 70 Squadron

The new Fairline 70 Squadron makes her World debut at the coming London Boat Show. Central to the concept of this new model is the British company desire to improve upon the success of the 68 Squadron, a Motorboat of the Year class winner, of which the 70 Squadron evolves from taking her design, creating greater flexibility and enhance the large yacht feel that is a hallmark of the Squadron range success. The introduction of an extended hydraulic hi-lo bathing platform, from which the increase in model designation derives its name, is one of the more evident external developments. This not only allows easy access, handling and storage for the Jet RIB tender, but also provides a spacious and well-equipped facility for swimming, diving and water sports. The flybridge too has been subject to intense evaluation by Fairline's design team and the result is a choice of two layouts; an extended sunbathing area aft with beautifully contoured day beds for a more relaxing onboard experience, or alternatively, a tender stowage area and crane for those seeking a more adventurous lifestyle. Add to this a choice of aft layouts below decks, allowing the owner to dedicate this area to guests or alternatively a crew cabin and utility facilities, and you get a great amount of flexibility in this luxury 22 metre motor yacht.
Technical Data:
LOA - 22.18 m (72.9ft)
Length - 20.4 m
Beam - 5.4 m
Draft - 1.44 m unloaded
Displacement - 36.17 t dry
Fuel Capacity - 4044 l
Water Capacity - 1084 l
Berths - eight berths in four cabins, one crew for twon 
Engines - 2 x Caterpillar C18 1015hp, C32 1572hp, MAN CRM 1360hp
Speed - 35 knots max with Cat C32
Project - Bernard Olesinski

December 19, 2008

Project: Abati 64 Freeport Fly

Abati Yachts present its new flagship model, the 64 Freeport project, set to debut the coming summer. As shown from this Italian builder smaller models, the new flagship project continues the traditional lobster lines, but with a modern design influence, as the slanting stern with a big tender garage, and the well sized central ship windows for the full beam owners cabin. The 64 Freeport makes good use of its space, showing spacious exterior areas and intelligent cabin use. Its exterior deck offers 2 huge sunpads to fore and aft, something unusual for a traditional lobster yacht, but also the flybridge is made for the sun worshippers, showing its builders Mediterranean heritage. The interior welcomes you in the saloon social area, offering entertaining, dining and galley all in one place. The lower deck is all reserved for the three spacious owner and guest cabins and there en-suite heads. Power will be from twin MAN engines, with three options available starting from smaller 1100hp up to twin 1360hp, which the builder is estimating will give top speeds of about 35 knots.

December 18, 2008

New Model: Chaparral 400 Premiere

Chaparral presents its latest flagship model the 400 Premiere, offering a progressive styled hardtop sports cruiser, showcasing soft European flare with a bold American style. The cockpit gets you covered with a wraparound windshield that fits seamlessly with the hard top, and featuring also a cockpit air conditioning and misting system keeping things cool when the going gets hot. The raised helm is full of technological marvel with an innovative ask any question, sophisticated computerized instrumentation giving the answers. Breaking tradition, premium leather bucket seats offer a form-fitting difference over a standard captain's bench. At speed, get in gear with a sport yacht that runs in every way thanks to Volvo's successful IPS propulsion system, which thanks to joystick maneuverability in even the tightest docking situations, makes this 40 footer easier to operate than most 20-footers. As impressive as the 400 Premiere is topside, its even better down below with luxury at your fingertips in every inch of the way, with finishing in ageless solid wood cabinetry blending with the modern styling of stainless steel to create a unique environment. Its lower deck though is not only luxury but also spacious with a fully equipped galley and overnight accommodations for six, separated in three areas in total comfort. The forward stateroom features an innovative fold out queen sized bed, while on the sides separate rooms house the en-suite head and shower for the owners cabin. The aft mid-ship cabin, also with an en-suite head, and its own entertainment station provides the perfect guest cabin with an l-shaped settee which easily transforms to a double berth.
Technical Data:
LOA - 13 m (42ft)
Beam - 4.06 m
Draft - 1.14 m
Fuel Capacity - 1136 l
Water Capacity - 291 l
Berths - 4 + 2
Engines - Twin Volvo Penta IPS500 370hp, IPS600 435hp
Hull Shape - vee with 18 degrees deadrise aft

December 17, 2008

Engine: Yanmar BY2 Series 260hp

Yanmar Marine has announced the introduction of a new generation of it’s BY Series lightweight diesels, two years after the first of these electronically controlled common rail engines became available. The BY2 Series diesels, with NMEA 2000 CAN-bus technology, will provide the same output as their predecessors, the four-cylinder 150hp (110kW) and 180hp (132kW) models, plus six-cylinder versions at 220hp (162kW) and 260hp (191kW), all rated at 4,000rpm. As before, they all meet the latest EPA and RCD emissions regulations. The new BY2 Series engines will have many improvements incorporated. These include a fully jacketed water-cooled exhaust manifold. There are modifications to the turbocharger and heat exchanger, along with a full metal top cover, which provides protection to the fuel system components below and results in a lower profile of 23mm. The engine control unit (ECU) has been reprogrammed from torque to speed control, providing smoother operation and better synchronization on twin engine applications. A glow plug controller has been added as standard equipment, which virtually eliminates cold start white smoke. To provide easier installation of the engines and future servicing, the fuel inlet and return connections on the engine are now incorporated into a single manifold mounted on the lower side of the engine, along with a new two-piece flywheel housing for both sterndrive and inboard applications.