Propulsion: Flexitab FlexiDrive

A new concept of semi-submerged propulsion system composed by three typologies. The target of Flexitab engineers, in the field of pleasure craft, is aimed to improve the safety and the efficiency of the navigation, with all kind of boats. Flexidrive is an innovative propulsion system composed by a “body”, made of composite material: all the hydraulic components are enclosed inside and all the mechanical parts are connected to. Flexidrive is based on semi-submerged propellers concept, created and developed to increase the performances of the boat and its manouvrability; to help the installation and to enhance the efficiency. The research program called Flexidrive is built up from the cooperation among Flexitab, Victory Design and the University of Genoa and Naples. Developed specifically for pleasure craft, Flexidrive has been tested on the Dart, a 46 mono-hull totally designed by Victory Design. This boat, with two 600hp diesel engines, reached a maximum speed around 10 knots more than any other boat of equal displacement propelled by immersed propellers and a minimum planing speed of 12 knots. Flexidrive assured also an incredible manouvrability in port, same as traditional propulsion systems. Flexidrive has been designed using the Finite Element Method which allows for optimization of structures in terms of maximum resistance and minimum weight. The Flexidrive body is made of composite materials; the propeller axis case is made of light aluminium alloy with anti-corrosional surface treatment. Flexidrive has three range of products. Energy for working boats, super yachts and high-displacement fisherman. This family has fixed drive and is designed to reach the maximum performance at medium-low speed usual for this kind of boats. It is available in 6 models, with an indicative power range from 300hp to 2800hp. Power for planing pleasure and high-speed working boats, such as contemporary open and fast guard-ship. This family has a trimmable drive to improve the performance of the hull and to reach the best result during all kind of navigation. Flexitab engineers worked to obtain the maximum manouvrability, quick planing and tacking. It is available in 5 models, with an indicative power range from 500hp to 2800hp. Speed created for light displacement and very fast boats (like, for example, the offshore and the fast-commuter), single and multi-hull. Like the Power models, also Speed family has trimmable drive and the external steering system is made of light aluminium alloy with a special high-tensile stainless steel rudder. It is available in 2 models, with an indicative power range from 500hp to 1500hp. Power and Speed models have the trimmable drive. In this way the driver has always the control of the boat, correcting the trim during the navigation in every sea state. The advantages are many: better cruising comfort, less fuel consumption and better performances. As all the Flexitab components, also the Flexidrive has been designed to facilitate the shipyard work: the installation is fast and easy and doesn’t require any compromise for the hull design.

www.flexitab.com

New Model: Hatteras GT63

Hatteras launches the third of its new sweet looking GT Series sportfish yacht line with the presentation of the GT63 in Miami. Unlike the previous other 60, and 54 GTs, the 63 is a totally new model. A new hull which if compared with the 64 Convertible is sixteen centimeters wider, and has a less draft of 22 centimeters. The GT63 impresses for its interior spaces and choices, offering three different main and lower deck layouts. The standard plan is four cabins, eight berths, three shower head layout. The other options are an office in replacement of the fourth bunk cabin, and galley down full on entertainment two L-shaped settees saloon plan. Both the optional layouts sacrifice the fourth bunk cabin, in this case sleeping six in three cabins. The GT63 has a three choices of Cat engines from standard 1600 up to 1900hp. With the big engine choice top speed is similar as the smaller GT54, that is reaching 41 knots, with all time max cruising being one knot less at 36 knots.

Technical Data:

LOA - 20.4 m (66.9ft) including pulpit

LOA - 19.46 m

Waterline Length - 17.2 m

Beam - 6.10 m

Draft - 1.25 m

Displacement - 46266 kg

Fuel Capacity - 7192 l

Water Capacity - 1022 l

Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabins, 6 berths in 3 cabins

Engines - 2 x Cats C32 1600hp, C32 1800, C32ACERT 1900hp

Propulsion - line shaft in semi prop tunnels

Speed - 41 knots max, 36 knots cruise with 1900hp

Construction - Isophtalic gel coat, Vinilester resin, fiberglass stringers with steel in key locations www.hatterasyachts.com

INBUILD ~ Galeon 780 Crystal Part 4 of 9

Galeon's new 780 Crystal flagship continues its completion journey, with a possible launch date for hull one now being calculated for the coming Summer. After showing you the internal lower deck bulkheads being prepared, now we follow this with another important step for the completion of this 24 meter long motor yacht. As you can see in the above picture the main deck which we also showed you in preparation phase, is being fitted to the hull, making for another important phase in the Galeon 780 Crystal completion. More updates to come very soon from Sraszyn in Poland for the 780 Crystal coming very soon.
www.galeon.pl

New Model: Bilgin 123 Sky-Lounge

Bilgin 123 Sky-Lounge continues the family owned Turkish builder into custom super yacht building. The 123 Sky-Lounge designed by the Italian Hot Lab studio was followed by a similar launch but having a flybridge version with a more open top deck. The 123 Sky-Lounge is infact a three deck vessel, with the enclosed skylounge providing another entairtainment area up top behind the pilot station. Accommodation is for five double guest cabins with the owners stateroom located on the main deck, and VIP suite taking full beam space. Crew rooms is for three cabins. Power is from twin MTU 2400hp, which give a max speed of 21 knots and a cruise of 16.
Technical Data:
LOA - 37.50 m (123ft)
Waterline Length - 32 m
Beam - 7.50 m
Draft - 1.90 m
Displacement - 190 t full load
Fuel Capacity - 32000 l
Water Capacity - 3200 l
Accommodation - 5 double guest cabins, 3 crew cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 16v2000 M93 2400hp
Propulsion - line shaft Speed - 21 knots, 16 knots cruise
Construction - cold molded, wood fiberglass and epoxy resins
Project - Hot Lab Studio
Certification - RINA Charter Class C + Hull = Mach Ych + MMA LY2 (Valletta)
www.bilginyacht.com

New Model: Rizzardi 50 Incredible

Rizzardi finally presented the 50 Incredible during the 2010 Genoa show and with it the central Italy builder hopes to follow the success obtained by the 2004 launched 45 now sold in over fifty units, and the 55 delivered in over ten since launched in 2008. The Rizzardi 50 Incredible shares some features from both the smaller and bigger Rizzardi Incredible models; as the layout and internal plan similar to the 45 but more spacious, and design of the hard top which shows a lot of the elements seen in the 55. The 50 Incredible also continues the use of the unique Technema hull lines, a feature presented on the Rizzardi's since the advent of the 63 Top Line model in 2002, which was followed in the 73, 63 HardTop, and all the Incredible models. Previously the Rizzardi's used to have a more flared bow as can be seen in the still in production 50 Top Line, or stopped 53 or the old 40, 45 and 50 Open models. Inside the plan of the 50 Incredible follows a similar three double cabins two head layout as that of the 45 with everything being more spacious. From the galley, saloon, shower heads, and cabins. The cockpit is another area which features more space, and adds a relaxing lounger to port side of the pilot station, and a bigger wet bar exterior galley. It is incredible what four extra centimeters in beam, and 1.25 meters in length can do. Performance always synonymous with the Rizzardi brand who also won the Endurance P1 championship in the top Evolution class both in 2002 and 03, is a top speed of 44 knots and a 37 of cruise with power coming from not so big MAN 730hp engines, and Italian made Top System surface drives. Considering the weight that is a good result showing good study of the hull lines and propulsion system.

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.05 m (52.6ft)

Beam - 4.44 m

Draft - 1.02 m including props

Displacement - 21 t loaded, 18 t empty

Fuel Capacity - 2000 l

Water Capacity - 550 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins

Engines - 2 x MAN R6 730hp

Propulsion - Top System TS65 surface drives

Speed - 44 knots max, 37 knots cruise

Range - 300 nautical miles at cruise speed

Hull Shape - variable deep Vee with 15 degrees deadrise aft

Construction - E Glass with Vinilester resins, RINA certified

Design - Corrado Rizzardi

Certification - CE A

www.rizzardiyachts.com

Project: Hinckley T55 Talaria Mk.II

Hinckley presents the project for its power traditional looking boat power range, with the T55 Talaria Mk.II. This new T55 will feature some important enhancements as new interior layout providing luxurious accommodations for both owner and guests. Guest cabin is significantly larger than previously and includes en suite head and shower. Guest cabin can be customized numerous ways for friends and families; queen bunk, two single bunks, convertible with three single bunks. Hinckley also improved the open air features of large electric sliding side windows and over sized electric overhead hatches providing a feeling of openness and airiness not experienced in other pilothouse yachts. All pilothouse windows are larger providing exceptional all around visibility and their frame less appearance enhances the beauty of the boat's profile. In addition to the fixed JetStick at the helm station, an innovative wireless handheld JetStick allows owners to precisely maneuver the yacht from any position on deck. This technology furthers the Hinckley commitment to making docking safe and simple, even with only one other person aboard. Improved cockpit layout with luxurious built-in settee. Power for the Hinckley T55 Talaria is for twin Cats 1000hp which give a 36 knots max, and a 28 knots cruise. www.hinckleyyachts.com

New Model: Larson 857 Cabrio

Larson presents the new 857 Cabrio. An entry level sport cruiser which on the exterior lines point of view seems to be a new departure for the US builder. The 857 Cabrio is a comfortable 28 feet long sport cruise with a generous cockpit, well laid interior cabin, and being legal to be driven on trailer in US roads. The cockpit of the 857 Cabrio surprises for its versatility with a C-shaped settee, wet bar with wash basin and fridge, and helm station. Moving convertible settees are a predominant feature in this size, and the 857 Cabrio does not disappoint here with the aft settee turning into the bathing platform. Interior is a four berths layout with a convertible to double V-shaped settee to fore, galley, separate shower head, and mid ship double berth. Power is a wide variety or choices from Volvo, Mercruiser, petrol gas, diesel, and single or twins. The base engine is a single 300hp from Mercruiser. Smallest power comes from the twin Mercruiser 135hp, and largest choice is a Volvo 400hp.

Technical Data:

LOA - 8.57 m (28.1ft)

Beam - 2.69 m

Draft - 0.91 m

Displacement - 3016 kg

Fuel Capacity - 318 l

Water Capacity - 72 l

Accommodation - 4 berths

Engines - 1 x Mercruiser 350 Mag MPI 300hp, 377 L MPI 320hp, 8.2 Mag 380hp, Volvo 5.7 Gi 300hp, 5.7 GXi 320hp, 8.1 GI 400hp, D4 225hp, D4 260hp, 2 x Mercruiser 3.0 MPI 135hp, 4.3L 190hp

Propulsion - stern drive dual propeller Mercruiser Bravo III, or Volvo DP

Speed - 38 knots with 300hp engine

Hull Shape - SofRide V with 20 degrees average deadrise, 14 degrees aft

Certification - USCG, CE

www.larsonboats.com

Project: Dyna 61

Taiwan builder Dyna continues to present new models with a modern European styling. This was the case for the latest releases as the 65, and recently launched 52, which Dyna follows with the project of a new 61 set to launch later on this year. Inside the Dyna 61 features a three cabins all with personal shower head layout, and an extra double guest or crew cabin aft. The owners room as the vertical windows make you note is a mid ship full beam, which a separate shower head, and a nice breakfast table to starboard side. The main deck offers a split level saloon with forward reserved for dining, semi separate galley, and below dedicated for relaxation in a C-shaped sofa. The flybridge looks also to be spacious offering a C-shaped settee to aft, wet bar, helm station, and sunpad. Power are from standard twin 700 up to a max of 900hp.
www.dynayachts.com

New Model: Tiara 3000 Open

Tiara presents the 3000 Open, entry level of its sportfish cruiser range. As is any Tiara in the Open family the 3000 is equally adept for a fishing excursion or a fun trip with family or friends. The 3000 Open exhibits the traditional sheer and modern style lines of the Tiara Open family from the exterior features, including the deck, standard hardtop, composite windshield and stainless steel bow rail, all work together to create a look that is also unique. The stance of the boat is a powerful combination of beauty and strength, and shows its true colors when under way with a perfect running attitude and performance characteristics. The exterior features of the 3000 Open are a blend of traditional values and new design. The lower cockpit is wide-open and functional with a combination of seating, storage, fish features and space to allow the afternoon cruise or the early morning fishing adventure. Optional seats fold down on the port and starboard sides of the cockpit for additional guests and then go back up so as not to get in the way while fishing. There is plenty of storage in floor boxes and within seat lockers, and the serious angler can add the optional bait well to the transom. Consistent with all Tiara Yachts, the port and starboard walkways protected by the bow rail guide you to the wide foredeck, accessible via molded-in steps. Inside the 3000 Open can sleep four, in a double berth to fore peak, and a convertible settee. Below is also an L-shaped galley, and separate shower head. Power for the 3000 Open is three options form standard petrol gas Crusaders of twin 370hp, to optional diesel 330hp Cummins.

Technical Data:

LOA - 10.6 m (35ft) with pulpit and optional bathing platform

LOA - 10.05 m with pulpit

LOA - 9.29 m without pulpit

Beam - 3.81 m

Draft - 0.80 m with props

Displacement - 5999 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 794 l

Water Capacity - 124 l

Accommodation - 4 berths

Engines - 2 x Crusader 6.0L MPI 370hp, 8.1L MPI 385hp, Cummins QSN 330hp

Propulsion - line shafts

Performance - 29 knots max speed, 26 knots cruise with Cummins 330hp

Hull Shape - variable Vee with 14 degrees dead rise aft

Construction - gel coat outer layer, balsa cored sides, hand laid fiberglass, premium resin

Certification - NMMA Certified using ABYC standards, CE certification possible

www.tiarayachts.com

Project: Sunseeker 38 Portofino

Although not officially web announced by Sunseeker, the 38 Portofino project first pictures started to show since last September at the builders Southampton show stand. The 38 Portofino is to be Sunseeker's future entry level model and will compete with similar sized hard top sports cruisers. These being built mostly in Europe. As the picture shows the 38 looks similar to the ten feet bigger January 2010 presented 48 Portofino model. Size is the major difference with a smaller fore peak, which is to be expected considering the less dimensions. Sunseeker with the 38 Portofino hope to compete with similar offers in this size, although price is key for this achievement. Sunseeker used to dominate this size in the past, but its previous recent ancestors did not fare so well, and considering the higher competition today the task is more difficult. The 375 Portofino did have medium sales results in the mid nineties, and the early millennium produced 35 Portofino had low numbers, reason being a not very competitive price. So far no details are announced as to what propulsion, engine type, and the layout plan. What I do imagine is stern drive or IPS choice propulsion power, with the big windows to mid ship suggesting the 38 Portofino having a large cabin in that area. An up and down bathing platform seems also part of the package.
www.sunseeker.com