Two Boats Sink After Being Hit By 10 Boats 3/7/07
According to one local boating enthusiast, the boats were moored but broke free as a result of many years of neglect to moorings offshore from Burgoyne Reserve.
The owner of Anchorage Marina, Terry O’Hare, said it was a problem waiting to happen.
Parks Victoria owns and manages Port Phillip and Western Port bays where the 3,000 boat mooring field is located.
The yard manager at Hobsons Bay Yacht Club, Sonia Butler, said she knew of about six derelict boats that were likely to break free in a storm. "Lots have been derelict for up to 30 years. Unfortunately, we have a number of boats that need to be taken off the moorings," said Butler.
"Parks Victoria are trying to ensure all the moorings are looked after, but unfortunately legislation meant they didn’t have the power to do a lot about it.
"But that’s now been changed, which means over the next couple of years, moorings will improve and everybody on a mooring will have to have it serviced regularly," said Butler.
Even heavy ground tackle wears through surprisingly quickly and needs to be checked every spring, and gear in doubt must be replaced. How often is your mooring checked, or those of the boats to windward of yours?
Oldest U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Retired After 65 Years 3/7/07
"In a world where the average naval vessel is considered old at 10 to 15 years of service, ‘Storis’ has lived five or six lifetimes," said Rear Adm. Arthur E. Brooks, commander of the Coast Guard 17th District, Alaska. The Coast Guard announced Feb. 9 that the 65-year-old ship will be transferred to California to be temporarily stored and maintained until a decision is made on her final disposition.
"I am hopeful cutter ‘Storis’ will become a museum, where a new generation of people around the world can learn (her) colorful history, as well as the stories of the courageous Coast Guard men and women who served aboard this ship," Adm. Thad Allen, commandant of the Coast Guard, said in a release.
The cutter's seven decades of accomplishments include patrolling the North Atlantic during World War II; conquering the Bering Sea delivering medical supplies to isolated villages in the Alaskan territory, and ending the 450-year search for the Northwest Passage by establishing the deep draft channel route for shipping across the top of North America in 1957 - the same year "Storis" became the first U.S. ship to circumnavigate North America, the Coast Guard said.
Construction on "Storis" began in a Toledo, Ohio shipyard in July 1941. The 230-ft. cutter was launched in April 1942 and commissioned Sept. 30, 1942 as an ice patrol tender.
"Storis" crews, Brooks said, have boarded 7,500 vessels, saved 250 lives, kept 25 vessels from sinking, assisted 100,000 people and traveled 1.5 million miles.
"Storis'" most recent patrols were in the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea conducting fisheries enforcement and search and rescue missions. The Coast Guard said "Storis" is a Scandinavian name taken from the Eskimo word "sirorssuit," meaning "great ice."
Since 1991, "Storis" has been the oldest commissioned cutter in the Coast Guard fleet, referred to as "Queen of the Fleet." Her hull number 38 is painted in gold on the ship's bow just forward of the distinctive red stripe signifying a U.S. Coast Guard vessel.
With the decommissioning of "Storis," Coast Guard cutter Acushnet will become "Queen of the Fleet." Acushnet is homeported in Ketchikan and patrols primarily the Gulf of Alaska. Acushnet celebrated her 63rd birthday Feb. 3.
--A report from The Associated Press was used in this story.
Earn a Degree on the 660’ Oceanliner "Scholar Ship" - Or, Born 50 Years Too Soon 3/7/07
The 660-ft. ship can accommodate up to 600 undergraduate and graduate students. She features 389 staterooms capable of accommodating 778 students and faculty, as well as 416 crewmembers. The goal of the program is to provide students with a culturally diverse academic and living environment.
Many highly respected international universities have contributed to the development of the "Scholar Ship," including the University of California, Berkeley, Macquarie University in Australia, Fudan University in China, Tecnologico de Monterrey in Mexico, Al Akhawayn University in Morocco, University of Ghana and Cardiff University in the United Kingdom.
Applications for the program's September voyage are due by April 30. The cost per 16-week semester will be approximately $20,000. Scholarships will be available to students based on their academic merit and financial need.
According to the website for "The Scholar Ship" all course credits will transfer. If you would like to enroll your child, or maybe do some post-graduate work yourself, go to their website by clicking here. http://www.thescholarship.com/
American Boat Builders & Repairs Assoc. Gives Awards 3/7/07
These awards recognize individuals and companies from the boatyard and repairer industry for their excellence throughout the year. Awards were given in five categories for each recipient’s performance in 2006.
The Dennis Snow President’s Award-given annually to the individual or organization who makes a significant and lasting contribution to improving the state of the boatyard industry-was presented to Steve Kitchin of New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) in Warwick, Rhode Island, for his organization’s continuous high level of professionalism within the marine service industry. NEIT is honored by ABBRA as a model for others in the industry to emulate.
ABBRA’s Award of Excellence or ABBRA’s "Boatyard of the Year," awarded to the service or repair yard that demonstrates excellence in all facets of business through commitment to customer relations, quality management, and positive vendor and employee relations, was given to Keefe Kaplan Maritime Inc. in Richmond, California, and accepted by Paul Kaplan.
The Excellence in Safety and Environmental Practice award was given to 3M and accepted by Janice Politowicz. The award is given to service facilities that have made significant, long-term progress in offering a clean, safe, and healthy environment for its customers and staff.
The Excellence in Technology award recognized Townsend Bay Marine in Townsend Bay, Washington. The award recognizes the service or repair facility that has developed or applied an advanced or innovative technology system or procedure. Townsend Bay Marine received this award for its continued implementation of advancing technologies in composite construction. Townsend Bay Marine’s CFO David King accepted the award.
The Commitment to Training Award was given to the Burr Brothers Boats Inc. whose commitment to employee education is a priority. Accepting the award was long-time employee Chris Bryant.
The American Boat Builders and Repairers Association (ABBRA) represent over 250 boatyards, repairers, and associated industries in the United States and abroad. As the hub of the boatyard/service-facility network, ABBRA provides its members with the opportunity to exchange information and coordinate efforts to handle matters of mutual concern through open discussions, quarterly newsletters, an annual conference, and training seminars throughout the United States.
Rubber Tires Do Not A Reef Make 3/7/07
The idea was simple: Create new marine habitat and alternate dive sites to relieve pressure on natural reefs, while disposing of tires that were clogging landfills. Decades later, it's clear the plan has failed miserably. Little sea life has formed on the tires. Some of the bundles bound together with nylon and steel have broken loose and are scouring the ocean floor across a swath the size of 31 football fields. Tires are washing up on beaches. Thousands have wedged up against the nearby natural reef some 70 ft. below the sea surface, blocking coral growth and devastating marine life. Similar problems have been reported at tire reefs worldwide.
Gov. Charlie Crist's proposed budget includes $2 million to help dispose of the tires. Broward County will manage the work on-site, and military divers will use the effort as part of their annual training missions at no cost to Florida. A month long pilot project is set for June. The full-scale salvage operation is expected to run through 2010 at a cost to the state of about $3.4 million.
In decades past, tire reefs were created off coastal states and around the world from Australia to Africa.
"We've literally dumped millions of tires in our oceans," said Jack Sobel, a senior Ocean Conservancy scientist. "I believe that people who were behind the artificial tire reef promotions actually were well intentioned and thought they were doing the right thing. In hindsight, we now realize that we made a mistake."
No one can say with certainty why the idea doesn't work, but one problem is that, unlike large ships that have been sunk for reefs, tires are too light. They can be swept away with tides and currents from powerful storms, and marine life doesn't have a chance to attach. Some scientists also believe the rubber leeches toxins.
Offshore Super Series National Championship Follows the Money Inshore -Very Inshore. 3/7/07
The Offshore Super Series [OSS] National Championship, featuring 50 of the fastest boats in the world competing head to head for the checkered flag, will be coming to The Lake of the Ozarks for the first time Sept. 28-30.
Merlyn Vandervort's Horny Toad Entertainment Complex (at the 7.5-MM in Lake Ozark) will serve as race headquarters for the event, which received a $25,000 boost from the Tri-County Lodging Association Feb. 15. Vandervort said the level of competition and accompanying exposure it will bring to the Lake of the Ozarks, combined with the attempt to extend the tourist season "one more weekend," are his motivations for bringing the event here.
"I've been working on getting it here for the better half of the last year," Vandervort said. "They [OSS] are excited about the lake and all we have to offer their event. This is like NASCAR on the lake."
Many of the details are still being worked out, but Vandervort said there will be about six different categories of boats racing throughout the three-day event. The six-mile race course consists of about 16 laps he said.
Karen Medders, TCLA board chair, said the event could overtake the Shootout in popularity and exposure for the Lake of the Ozarks. During discussion at Co-Mo Electric in Laurie, she and other tourism officials drew comparisons between the OSS event and the Shootout, a two-day event held at the 21-MM in August that draws as many as 4,000 spectators.
Missouri Water Patrol Captain Matt Walz confirmed last week that a regatta application has been filed for the last weekend in September in that area of the lake. He said the application is pending the receipt of the proposed course, buffer zones for spectators and other safety issues.
Vandervort said the Lake Ozark and Osage Beach Fire Districts have been extremely helpful and supportive in providing logistical and security support for the planned event.
This new race is expected to draw thousands of spectators to Vandervort's Horny Toad Entertainment Complex, as well as thousands who will be able to view the race from the water and land along the three-mile course.
Vandervort, who estimates he's invested $225,000 of his own money to get the event here, said he's attended the event at other watercourses in past years. Network television coverage is still being negotiated by OSS, he said, but it's certain there will be a great deal of interest.
Zeus wins Motor Boating Magazine’s “Best of the Year” award in Advanced Propulsion category. 3/7/07
In the February issue of Motor Boating Magazine, the editorial staff wrote a segment on winners from the various categories. The following comments appeared relating to Zeus: “Engineered to simplify the boating experience while maintaining safety, Cummins MerCruiser Diesel’s (CMD) Zeus power package consists of tunnel-mounted steerable pod drives controlled by a joystick and coupled to inboard -engines. A significant technological achievement, the system delivers better acceleration, top speed, maneuverability and fuel economy than conventional inboard configurations. Its twin counter-rotating, stainless steel, rear-facing propellers with through-the-hub exhaust are protected by a skeg and designed to shear off at impact. The “torpedoes” leave the water relatively undisturbed so that the props grip with -maximum efficiency. As a result, both high-speed and low-speed handling are dramatically improved. Trim tabs are integrated into the pods.
Zeus-powered boats track true and respond instantly to helm commands. At low speeds, Zeus steers with a joystick that directs pod thrust for precise maneuverability. The driver is actually able to crab the boat sideways or pirouette in a tight circle. But the advanced technology doesn’t stop there. An intelligent station-keeping system reads GPS coordinates and directs thrust to keep a boat in position without the driver having to touch the wheel or controls—that’s a very handy feature to have when waiting at a busy fuel dock or for a berth to become available.”
CMD President Scott Patrohay received the award from Motor Boating’s Peter Janssen on February 15th in Miami. Patrohay said “this award goes to a very dedicated and highly motivated team of professionals from Cummins MerCruiser Diesel, Brunswick and Mercury Marine. This is another great example of the benefit of our joint venture. We can engage cross functional resources in order to design, develop, engineer and market a product that will enhance the boating experience for our customers.”
Background information on Zeus:
Zeus is a highly advanced propulsion system that delivers a proven level of safety; up to 30% better fuel economy, unsurpassed handling at high and low speeds, vessel systems integration unparalleled in the marine industry and increased power density up to 550 horsepower.
Culminating 15 years of development, building upon technology advancing designs, Zeus incorporates a familiar looking, yet totally new pod with counter-rotating stainless steel, rear facing propellers and a through hub exhaust. Independent vectoring for each pod delivers dramatically improved high-speed handling. Docking is easier than ever. These steerable pods, along with an advanced joystick control system deliver precise turning and tight maneuvering that is far superior to bow thrusters. In addition, Skyhook Electronic AnchorTM, a component of our highly advanced Precision PilotTM system keeps a Zeus equipped vessel on a fixed heading within a tight area, even in strong currents and windy conditions.
The pods are designed to produce horizontal thrust so the full power of the engines are utilized to drive the boat forward, unlike standard inboard shafts that push a boat upwards. Counter-rotating propellers feature increased blade area, larger gear ratios, no side forces and minimized cavitation. The results of the advances are impressive, up to 15% faster top speed and up to 30% increased fuel economy at a higher cruise speed.
With up to 550 horsepower, the Zeus 3500 and Zeus 3800 offer more power density than comparable pod systems. An Integrated trim control system, an accessories water system, and SmartCraftTM networking also provide more integrated components than other pod systems.
Built on the foundation of the already quiet and clean running Quantum engines, Zeus makes boating even more pleasurable. Because the pod drives employ counter rotating propellers and are mounted on a large rubber grommet, gear noise and vibration are significantly reduced for an even quieter and comfortable ride. Already low engine exhaust noise is nearly eliminated by venting the emission through the propeller hubs where the water flow takes them far back into the wake.
Design engineers stress the rear facing orientation offers a much greater level of safety versus forward facing propellers. In the event that the pod strikes debris or bottom, the gear case and skeg protect the propellers. Most floating objects will be deflected downwards by the keel and skeg away from the propellers. Should the unit come into contact with a substantial object, the skeg is designed to shear below the torpedo, minimizing damage to the drive and costly repair bills. In the event of a catastrophic collision above the depth of the keel, the gear case is designed to shear away and remain water tight, so that there is no compromise in hull integrity.
Some of the most notable benefits from Project Zeus for boaters will be experienced at the helm. Around the dock, our intuitive joystick control eliminates anxiety. Underway, the automated trim control feature simplifies operation. Skyhook Electronic AnchorTM allows hands free control of the boat when maintaining position away from the dock. All of this technology was developed with a goal of simplifying the boating experience while maintaining safety.
Mercury Introduces 2 New Verado Engines at Miami Show 3/1/07
Mercury Marine introduced two additions to its flagship Verado outboard line - a 200-hp in-line four-cylinder and a 300-hp in-line six-cylinder. Verado is the world's only production supercharged outboard.
The six-cylinder 200, 225, 250, 275 and new 300 hp models feature 2.6L displacement, four valves per cylinder, a charge-air cooler and electronic boost bypass control. The 135,150, 175 and new 200-hp Verado models are built on a 1.7L, four-cylinder platform. Other than the engine blocks, the base engines of both are the same, with dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, and the bedplate-and-long bolt design often seen in Formula 1 race cars. This state-of-the-art concept yields maximum rigidity and durability in a compact package, according the Mercury.
Verado features SmartStart and has electronically controlled sequential multi-port fuel injection for smooth, efficient operation. With SmartStart, all you have to do is turn the key and release. The engine will automatically start itself.
The six-cylinder Verado models feature standard electro-hydraulic power steering. All four-cylinder Verado engines are shipped with the Mercury Universal Steering Cylinder, which can be used with the optional electro- hydraulic power steering or Mercury's bulletproof hydraulic system.
SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift is standard on the four-cylinder and six- cylinder models, which allow Verado to deliver an exceptionally smooth and responsive, engineered driving experience and automotive-like handling.
200-hp In-line Four-Cylinder
The new 200-hp in-line four-cylinder Verado is the lightest four-stroke outboard on the market, says Mercury. The right combination of weight and power makes this outboard perfect for its targeted applications, which include freshwater aluminum, saltwater coastal bay and flats boats, as well as dual engine offshore boats.
The new 200-hp four-cylinder Verado features new graphics to its cowl. It is available in 20-inch (L) and 25-inch (XL, CXL) versions. Left-hand rotation models are available with 25-inch shafts only.
This Verado runs on standard 87 octane fuel and has the standard Verado three-year limited warranty and three-year corrosion warranty.
300-hp In-line Six-Cylinder
Recognizing that more muscle is required as outboard-powered boats become larger, Mercury designed the 300-hp in-line six-cylinder Verado.
Like the new 200-hp in-line four-cylinder, the 300-hp Verado features special styling and graphics to the cowl. It is available in 20-inch (L), 25-inch (XL, CXL) and 30-inch (XXL, CXXL) versions. Left-hand rotation models are available with 25 inch and 30-inch shafts only.
Premium fuel is recommended for the 300-hp Verado to achieve the highest performance and to produce the very best fuel efficiency. However, the 300-hp Verado is designed to run on standard 87 octane fuel. The 300-hp Verado features the standard Verado three-year limited warranty along with a three-year corrosion warranty.
Mercury Racing Introduces 1200-hp Engine Package for “The Masses”3/1/07
At Miami, Mercury Racing introduced the all-new HP1200 SCi sterndrive engine package. The engine, featuring the dry-sump six drive, is the most powerful consumer sterndrive ever built by Mercury Racing.
The HP1200 SCi shares all of the “mild-mannered running qualities”, says Mercury Racing, as its HP850 SCi and HP1075 SCi counterparts. The HP1200 SCi gets its energy from the required high-octane race fuel. The spokesman for Mercury Racing’s skunk works says we should “think of it as a street legal race engine available to the masses.”
Like the HP1075 SCi and HP850 SCi, the HP1200 SCi features the Mercury exclusive propulsion control module (PCM) 07 microprocessor, which is the brain behind the brawn. Based on a high performance 557-cubic inch V-8 cylinder block, the HP1200 SCi features a pair of Lysholm twin screw super chargers with multiport fuel injection (two injectors per cylinder). This combination provides sport boaters with turn-key starting, great overall running quality and incredibly smooth idle quality for a high horsepower big block, says the company.
The engine's 800 RPM idle speed makes shifting into and out of gear “smooth as silk”, say the Mercury gear heads, “and makes docking much easier with less chance of stalling and other low-RPM drawbacks normally associated with big horsepower.”
Mercury Racing engineers designed the HP1200 SCi for ease of installation. Every component is strategically placed with an end package that is as compact as possible. The twin screw compressors, which require less power than traditional roots blowers, sit on a corrosion resistant charge air cooler and induction system, designed exclusively by Mercury Racing. Their low- profile design helps to reduce overall engine height and center of gravity.
Supercharger induction noise levels are controlled by twin carbon fiber inlet resonators. Twin flame arrestors act also as air filters, keeping the engine's air induction system clean and efficient. In addition, supercharger boost is variable. A boost bypass control valve, electronically activated by the PCM 07 microprocessor, continuously adjusts the amount of boost needed to provide consistent horsepower.
The company says “under optimum ambient conditions, the boost bypass control valve will open to adjust for the lowest boost required to obtain 1200 horsepower. The PCM 07 computer also enables individual cylinder control. This ability to optimize fuel and spark timing independently for each cylinder enhances engine running quality, performance, fuel economy and durability, they say. The use of eight independent ignition coils, one per cylinder, helps eliminate spark plug fouling and misfire.
The HP1200 SCi comes equipped with the digital SmartCraft® Controller Area Network system, a network of sensors that proactively monitor engine functions. SmartCraft links power, controls and internal and external sensors to provide precise data on all boat functions at a glance. The system monitors a variety of vital engine functions including fuel flow, fuel range, fuel used, and RPM, along with water depth, trim angle, water pressure and battery voltage. Boat functions monitored include fuel tank levels and water and waste tank levels. The CAN enables the PCM 07 to communicate data to the optional Mercury Racing SystemView - Race Edition monitor and SmartCraft® System Link gauges for real-time data on multiple engine and boat functions.
The PCM 07 also drives the exclusive Engine Guardian™ System. Engine Guardian monitors engine functions to forewarn of possible problems that could lead to engine damage. This "smart" technology not only detects and alerts the boater of a problem, it processes the data and reduces power to the maximum, safe level that allows the boater to continue operation. Engine Guardian also has the ability to proactively help prevent engine overheating by sensing not only engine temperature but cooling water pressure as well.
By sensing water pressure and temperature, the system can provide advanced warning to the PCM 07 control module, which then reduces engine power before temperature related engine damage takes place. The HP1200 SCi features a dry-sump lubrication system. Three scavenge pumps and one pressure pump keep oil off the crankshaft, reducing friction for enhanced power and performance. A remote oil tank separates air from the oil and gives it time to settle, providing the pressure pump with a constant supply of oil. The oil tank also reduces foaming, improving overall oil lubrication even in the most adverse sea conditions, says Mercury.
Custom sealing systems, developed by Mercury Racing, enhance engine durability. The use of corrosion resistant engine components and treatments improve engine quality and protection against the corrosive saltwater environment.
A thermostatically-controlled, high-velocity cooling system uses a combination of a circulating pump and sea pump to keep the engine at an optimal operating temperature and peak performance. The system utilizes a three-stage sea pump. Two stages feed cooling water to the engine block and cylinder heads while the third stage feeds the charger air cooler. A new bronze alloy sea pump design enhances protection for boats used in the corrosive salt water environment.
A high-output, 65-amp alternator provides increased power at idle and full power. The increased charging capacity makes running a variety of electronic accessories worry free.
The HP1200 SCi is built from the bare block to completion in Mercury Racing's four-cycle Race Shop. Technicians use specialized components throughout the engine, from the heavy-duty valve train to the custom fabricated steel oil pan. Engine packages come standard with a heavy-duty BAM Cyborg dry- sump transmission and the legendary Mercury Racing dry-sump Six drive.
New Mercury Racing and engine model graphics adorn the carbon fiber top cover and valve covers. The HP1200 SCi comes with a new universal engine mount for enhanced engine installation fit and finish. Polished pulleys and clear anodized hose fittings put the finishing touches on what is the ultimate in high performance sterndrive marine propulsion.
The HP1200 SCi is accredited by Mercury Racing's T.E.A.M. (Total Engine Application Management) initiative. The standardized T.E.A.M. process ensures proper installation of the engine with factory specified components, providing maximum performance along with unmatched quality and durability.
The HP1200 SCi will only be sold to accredited OEM boat builders and dealers who agree to the terms of the T.E.A.M. initiative. We’ve just run out of bandwidth, so if this was not enough information for you, call Fred at the Mercury Racing shun works.
Mercury Marine Introduces New 40-hp EFI Four-Stroke Jet Drive3/1/07
Mercury Marine announced today it will soon begin production of a new 40 horsepower electronically fuel-injected (EFI) Four Stroke Jet outboard. The new 40 hp EFI Four Stroke Jet Drive, based on the Mercury 60 hp EFI Four Stroke outboard, makes it possible to boat in shallow lakes, streams and rivers typically inaccessible with a standard propeller-driven outboard.
Unlike some competitive jet outboards, says Mercury, the Mercury 40 hp EFI Four Stroke Jet outboard is designed to fit on a 20-inch transom, making it an easy replacement for the standard outboard. The 40 hp EFI Four Stroke Jet Drive outboard features state-of-the art EFI technology. This sequential multi-port system uses an injector for each cylinder resulting in instant turn-key starting, unmatched smoothness and instantaneous throttle response in all types of atmospheric conditions, Mercury says.
This design provides improved fuel economy, greater range and smoother running quality than equivalent two-stroke models. Superior fuel efficiency is provided by a microprocessor controlled EFI, sequential multi-port fuel delivery system. In addition, these engines feature exclusive Mercury technologies, including Engine Guardian and SmartCraft. Engine Guardian constantly monitors and protects you're your engine by taking corrective action when needed. SmartCraft Integrated Technology provides digitally accurate engine performance and diagnostic information.
Mercury 40 EFI Four Stroke Jet Drive models will be available through authorized Mercury dealers beginning this summer.
The ABYC Recognizes Dedicated Boatmen with Awards3/1/07
The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) announced the recipients of its annual awards during its 2007 Annual Meeting and Reception held on Wednesday, February 14, 2007 in Miami, FL. These awards were presented to recognize the significant work of individuals and companies in furthering ABYC's core mission of boating safety.
Skip Burdon, ABYC President commented, "For ABYC, our value is the sum of our members, who everyday commit themselves to ABYC's mission. With these awards, we pay tribute to those individuals who represent the spirit of volunteering and a commitment to making our industry the best it can be."
The ABYC Service Award - Mr. Craig Scholten, Director of Product Compliance, Four Winns/Genmar Holdings, Inc. This award is presented each year to an ABYC member who has served the Council over a long period of time, through active participation on committees, Boards or other volunteer venues, in a manner that materially benefits the goals of ABYC. Craig has been an ABYC Technical Board member since 2004 and a committed member of several PTC's (specifically Hull and Deck Structures and Fuel and Ventilation). Craig is dedicated to the standards writing process, and recently opened the Four Winns manufacturing and testing facility to ABYC for work on a USCG grant, providing materials, product and staff support for a weeks worth of testing. Craig has been a supporter of ABYC education by promoting ABYC's industry training and certification, specifically at Four Winns. In addition, Craig has presented on behalf of ABYC at various industry events and meetings. He is both ABYC Standards Accredited and ABYC Certified in Marine Systems, and has advanced his way up to his current position, where he is responsible for maintaining product compliance/certifications of Four Winns products, with additional product compliance support to Genmar and all its boat brands.
ABYC Leadership Award - Mr. Phil Cappel, Chief of the Recreational Boating Product Assurance Division of the United States Coast Guard's Office of Boating Safety. This award was established to honor an individual that has provided outstanding leadership in support of ABYC, industry and the ABYC mission, and best exemplifies the leadership qualities of ABYC's past presidents. Phil is a shining example of leadership in action, having not only served on several volunteer ABYC technical subcommittees, he is also a member of ABYC's Technical Board of Directors, and has been responsible for taking the lead in assuring USCG participation in all aspects of the ABYC standards writing process.
Phil continually represents the USCG and the U.S. boating safety interests in domestic, as well as international meetings. Phil oversees a staff of seven who share his passion for boating safety. Phil's leadership is marked by the ability to assemble diverse groups of people, together to find common ground and solutions on matters that affect recreational boating. Phil was responsible for the launch of the USCG and industry cooperative effort to address the carbon monoxide and propeller injury avoidance efforts. It is through these kinds of active efforts to connect people and build community for the safety of the recreational boater that Phil received this award.
Lifelong Service Award - Mr. Jim Ellis This award was created to recognize someone for their service to the marine industry and their profound contributions to boating safety, design and/or the advancement of recreational boating. Jim brings an impressive resume of marine experience to not only ABYC, but the entire boating industry. Jim not only serves as a past Chair of the ABYC Board of Directors but he has also served in numerous other leadership positions on ABYC Board committees. In addition to his work with ABYC, Ellis has also held executive leadership roles with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) and was a member of the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF).
In 1982, Ellis was named director of the BoatU.S. Foundation before being appointed to BoatU.S. President in 2003. He is credited with growing the non-profit organization into a leader in boating safety and clean water advocacy. He is the past Chairman of the NSBC and was inducted into the NSBC Boating Safety Hall of Fame in 2004 for his leadership and support of boating safety. Jim has also been credited with being a visionary in the field of boating safety through his work in the early years of the Internet by bringing online boating safety courses to the national boating community and recognizing the need for bringing more comfortable, inflatable life jackets to the market. His personal experience in both the power boating and sailing arenas have allowed him to help develop services that continue to bring convenience, value and safety to the boating lifestyle. Jim recently elected to retire as President of BoatU.S., after 24 years with the Association.
The ABYC Bunzl Boating Safety Award Goes To…3/1/07
Also at the Annual Meeting, the ABYC Foundation presented the Bunzl Boating Safety Award to announced two recipients of the Bunzl Boating Safety Award during the 2007 ABYC Annual Meeting and Reception held on Wednesday, February 14, 2007 in Miami, FL. Established by the ABYC Foundation, this award may be presented in recognition of singular acts of great personal sacrifice or heroism in the saving of life or vessel at sea, or for extraordinary contributions to the safety of the boating public. The 2007 recipients are:
Captain Mike Stewart, owner and President of TowBoatU.S. North Miami - On April 15, 2006, Captain Stewart's quick and courageous response to a radio distress call saved an injured Sea Tow Captain who had sustained a serious head injury, which resulted in extensive bleeding and violent erratic behavior while in the Atlantic Ocean. Without concern for his personal safety and without hesitation, Captain Stewart assisted with the rescue of the fellow Captain. He rendered essential medical aid and the man's life was saved as a direct result of his heroic actions.
Joe Morris, a Maryland teenager who saved the life of a fellow sailor during a highly competitive weekend regatta off the coast of Brant Beach, NJ. During a 420 Mid-Atlantic regatta, the teenager momentarily looked down and spotted a girl's inert body lying face down in the waves, wearing a life jacket, while racing a two-man sailboat. The 17-year old immediately jettisoned thoughts about the race and headed his boat upwind, which brought the boat next to the girl. Joe grabbed her and brought her aboard as she was fading into and out of consciousness. Joe's rapid response and unselfish deeds helped save the girl from uncertain tragedy.
Burdon, President of ABYC and Secretary of the ABYC Foundation said, "The ABYC Foundation is honored to be able to recognize the extraordinary efforts and life saving actions of these two individuals. Both Joe and Captain Stewart sacrificed their own safety to come to the aid of fellow human beings in danger on the water, and their actions are to be commended."
BWI & NMMA Recognize Seven Marine Innovations3/1/07
Seven marine manufacturers were honored this for innovative achievement by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Writers International (BWI) at the Miami International Boat Show. Winning companies received their 2007 Miami Innovation Awards during the Miami Media Breakfast, held Thursday, February 15 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
The Innovation Awards, organized by NMMA and judged by BWI, recognize those products that best meet the following criteria: innovative distinction from other products currently being manufactured; benefit to the marine industry and/or consumer; practicality; cost-effectiveness; and availability to the consumer within 60 days of award receipt.
In the Consumer Electronics & Software category, the judges selected the CannonLink by Johnson Outdoors. The CannonLink module enables any Humminbird fishing system to simultaneously or individually control the operation of up to six Cannon downriggers. The user can automatically deploy or retrieve outriggers, monitor downrigger depth off the bottom and view temperature at depth and speed through water. “The only thing it doesn’t do is put the bait on the hook and drop it over the side,” says judge Duncan McIntosh, publisher of Sea, Go Boating and other marine periodicals.
An Honorable Mention in the Consumer Electronics & Software category was also presented to the GB 60 Glass Bridge System by Simrad.
The One Touch Winch Handle from Lewmar was the winner in the Consumer Installed Non-Electronic Hardware category, according to the judges. By simply squeezing the locking mechanism anywhere on the shaft, the user quickly engages or releases the winch handle. “To be able to improve on something so simple, and that’s been around for decades, is quite a feat,” says a judge. “Priced right and well designed, it’s a clear winner.”
In the Consumer Personal Gear category, the Innovation Award was presented to the Windmate 350 from Speedtech. The Windmate is a comprehensive wind and weather monitor that gives digital wind speed, wind direction, a digital compass, temperature, barometric pressure, humidity and an audio storm alarm. “Lots of features in a compact package,” commented judge Mundy. “It’s a complete weather station bundled in one ergonomic unit.”
The No Profile Boat Lift by Way Marine Design took home the Innovation Award in the Daysailing Equipment category. An alternative to the conventional metal boatlift, the auto-leveling No Profile 18K Platform Boatlift creates extra dock space and provides easy access for boat servicing and maintenance. “Aesthetically clean and completely out of the box thinking, it makes for easy launch and easy load,” according to judge Barron.
Glacier Bay’s Isle Runner was the winner in the Inboard & Outboard Cruisers category. The 30-foot Isle Runner combines a patent pending hull design, surface piercing rails and “Super Chines” to provide a soft and dry ride. Features include a unique sunken offside galley, port side entry, convertible helm and dual bait well locations. “Reduced rolling, increased stability and tracking in rough seas are just some of this unique boat’s features, which also offers great livability and fishability,” says judge Rudow.
In the Runabouts & Fishing Craft category, judges presented the Innovation Award to Chris-Craft for its Catalina 23. The Catalina 23 Center Console offers good looks and a serious fishing platform all in a family-friendly sport boat. “The blind mounted T-top ensures no toe stubbing, while the roomy head provides lots of comfort,” judge Prochazka notes. “It’s loaded with features for a serious day of fishing,” echoes scribe Rudow. “Now you can cast with class.”
Finally, the SP Cruiser by Island Packet Yachts was awarded the Innovation Award in the Sailboats category. The SP Cruiser combines good sail keeping with all the comforts of a trawler. Two cockpits, push-button sail control with the StoWinch sheeting system and a dry interior helm connecting to the forward cockpit are just a few of the unique features of this design. “This boat raises the bar on convenience and comfort in order to keep new and seasoned boaters sailing longer,” Prochazka says.
Digital Antenna’s New Global Marine Cellular Antennas3/1/07
Worldwide use of cell phones and other wireless devices has created an enormous demand for solutions to enhance coverage and performance. Known for its high performance antenna and cellular communications technology, Digital Antenna introduces a new 9dB gain marine cellular antenna designed for use with all North American, European and Asian cell phones operating on world-wide frequencies including 850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz and 2.1 GHz. The new PowerMaxTM Global Marine Cellular Antennas are the first ALL BAND marine cellular antennas and are designed and manufactured for all cellular systems including third generation (3G) and WCDMA technology.
Digital Antenna’s new multi-band omni-directional antennas are available in lengths of 18”, 30”, 4’ and 8’. For maximum cellular range of up to 50 plus miles, use the Global Marine Cellular Antenna with Digital Antenna’s North American DA4000 (850/1900 MHz) or Euro/Asian DA4000E (900/1800 MHz) direct connect amplifiers. “By designing an antenna for use with all cellular bands, customers can easily switch between using the DA4000 and DA4000E amplifiers without changing antennas,” stated Joanne Johnson, Vice President of Operations. In the company’s tradition of using high quality materials, the new Global Marine Cellular Antennas feature powerful brass radiators, soldered connections, stainless steel ferrules and a high-gloss urethane finish. All antennas are made in the USA, hand-assembled and tuned for maximum performance.
Go to their website, click here.
Riviera Yachts Selects Sea Safe Extended Warranty Coverage3/1/07
SeaSafe Group, LLC, the industry’s leading marine warranty and service contract company which specializes in component and comprehensive coverage for marine manufacturers and retailers recently added Riviera Yachts of the Americas to its growing stable of clients. Riviera Yachts of the Americas has an extensive network throughout the Americas representing Australia’s largest and most awarded builder of quality Flybridge Convertibles, Sport Cruisers and Sport Yachts. The company has been committed to boatbuilding excellence for more than three decades exporting boats to discerning buyers in over 30 countries around the globe. Riviera Yachts has formed alliances with some of the most well-known names in boating around the world to produce a range of world-class products.
SeaSafe Group provides marine manufacturers a vehicle for issuing customized coverage in the quest for a stem-to-stern product. With over 25 years of experience, SeaSafe Group’s administration has over 150 employees dedicated to customer service in a state-of-the-art environment for administering and paying claims promptly. SeaSafe Group provides manufacturers with the kind of comprehensive warranty coverage customers have been demanding for years.
“After a thorough evaluation process we found SeaSafe Group to be the most capable of delivering extended protection products measuring up to the quality and reliability of Riviera’s product itself,” said Riviera Yachts of the Americas President Mike Scruggs. “SeaSafe Group also demonstrated advanced technological capabilities with regard to administration, reporting and marketing for this service.”
“We are excited about this new partnership with Riviera Yachts of the Americas,” said SeaSafe Group Senior Vice President Jamie Gaskins. “They are a forward-thinking company, and recognize the services that SeaSafe Group can effectively and efficiently provide the company while simultaneously providing increased support and satisfaction for the company’s growing network of customers.
For more information call Jamie Gaskins at 904-219-3423, or go to Sea Safe’s website. Click here.
Industry’s “First Black Box” Forward-Looking Sonar3/1/07
Interphase, maker of affordable phased array LCD depthsounders for the recreational marine market as well as the serious cruiser, sailor and fisherman, introduces the industry’s first “black-box” forward looking sonar with both VGA and video outputs. The new SE-200B Sonar EngineTM adds scanning sonar capability to today’s popular multifunction and large panel displays and easily turns most video-capable chart plotters, radars, and other multifunctional displays into full-featured forward-looking sonars.
Designed to work with video-enabled multifunction displays from companies such as Raymarine, Garmin, Navman, Northstar, Simrad and Furuno, the versatile SE-200B Sonar Engine goes an important step further, and also works with large VGA flat panel displays including products from VEI, Nauticomp, Big Bay Technologies, Computech, Vartech Systems and many others – even large inexpensive consumer computer monitors.
Interphase’s new SE-200B Sonar Engine includes the phased array transducer(s), a small module that houses the sophisticated electronics and a keypad which can be located close to a remote display. For custom installations, individual components can be selected, including an optional Interphase color VGA display with integral keypad. The system can easily support multiple displays and keypads and owners can even mix several video, VGA and Interphase displays using a single SE-200B Sonar Engine —all operating at the same time, says the company.
The SE-200B Sonar Engine scans a forward-looking beam both vertically and horizontally over a 90 degree segment using a single dual axis thru-hull transducer or two transom transducers. In the vertical mode the beam scans from the surface ahead to the bottom below and is particularly useful navigating unfamiliar waters, detecting coral, rock pinnacles and other submerged objects directly ahead of the vessel.
In the horizontal mode the beam scans horizontally over a 90 degree segment from 45 degrees to port to 45 degrees to starboard. In shallow waters, the horizontal mode aids in the location of underwater channels, openings in reefs, underwater rocks and helping direct the captain to steer away from dangerous situations. In deeper water, the horizontal scan is ideal for locating and tracking schools of fish and bait and other submerged objects.
The SE-200B Sonar Engine also operates as a traditional down-looking color depth sounder with a maximum depth range of 600 feet. In this mode, the operator will get a detailed view of bottom depth, contour, composition and fish. This view can also be displayed on a simultaneous split screen with either vertical or horizontal scanning.
Inside the new SE-200B Sonar Engine a powerful processor sends and receives phased signals to the transducer elements millions of times each second. These signals are processed and a complete display picture is actually created within the SE-200B Sonar Engine and then simultaneously sent out, as both composite video and high-resolution VGA pictures. By creating a complete picture in the sonar engine, rather than sending raw sonar data to the display, the SE-200B Sonar Engine does all the work, and doesn’t bog down the multifunction display with the time consuming tasks of coordinate conversion and complex picture creation, says the company.
Although small and lightweight, the SE-200B Sonar Engine sports an impressive list of important features such as Auto Gain, Auto Range, Keel Offset, Shallow and Range Alarms, Scan Sector Adjustment, and a unique Transducer Test feature. To help identify targets and improve overall display resolution, the 12 color display shows different target strengths as unique colors. For extra connectivity, the SE-200B Sonar Engine includes NMEA 0183 input and output ports to connect to GPS and temperature sensors or to output digital depth to other NMEA devices. An optional loud external alarm can also be connected to the SE-200B Sonar Engine.
Using transducers with no moving parts, the SE-200B Sonar Engine uses a focused 200 khz beam for both transmitting and receiving. The narrow transmit beam directs the power where you need it rather than indiscriminately throughout the surrounding water—resulting in maximum range and resolution. Interphase was the first to develop phased array technology for recreational forward-looking sonars and today there are over 35,000 forward looking vessels, cruising throughout the world ….with Interphase sonar units.
For more information, go to Interphase’s website for an incredible underwater experience, click here. http://www.interphase-tech.com/main.htm
“VesselView”™ Promises to be an All-Ship Monitoring System3/1/07
Mercury Marine revealed its all-new VesselView SmartCraft display as part of its booth opening at the Miami International Boat Show. VesselView was one of more than a dozen new Mercury products unveiled when the show opened its doors Feb. 16 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
SmartCraft is Mercury's exclusive control-area-network-based (CAN net) system that gives boaters an unprecedented level of information about their boats. SmartCraft links the propulsion control module on each engine to an advanced computer network so the driver can access all manner of data such as speed, engine rpm, cooling water temperature, water depth and fuel consumption via SmartCraft gauges and displays.
VesselView is different than previous SmartCraft user interfaces in that it has an advanced five-inch color screen that is direct-sunlight visible. It can monitor SmartCraft Networked peripheral items such as a generator, sounder, HVAC and inverter/charger. It is also fully compatible with the do-it-all NorthStar 8000i unit, which serves as fish finder, chart plotter, radar and infotainment.
VesselView is all-new hardware, but it fits the same hole and footprint as Mercury's venerable System View interface. VesselView also features more buttons than previous interfaces, so it's very user intuitive, even in rough weather or higher speeds. As with all SmartCraft products, VesselView has been subjected to brutal testing. By the time it goes into production in the latter part of 2006, it will have undergone thousands of hours of validation, which far exceeds the industry norm for electronics, says Mercury.
To find out more visit the SmartCraft website. Click here.
NMMA Presents Two Consumer Electronics Awards3/1/07
The National Marine Manufacturer's Association awarded two Consumer Electronics category awards, one each to Simrad, for their WR20 Remote Commander, and to Brunswick New Technologies Marine Electronics, for their Northstar 8000i.
SIMRAD's WR20 allows wireless control from anywhere on the vessel. It also includes a VHF Marine Band radio which the captain can carry with him at all times.
NORTHSTAR's 8000i offers video, navigation, radar display, and CD player, as well as a network bridge to instrumentation networks such as the Mercury SmartCraft system.
Raymarine Introduces a New Color Dome Camera 3/1/07
With its low profile wall or ceiling mount, the petite black dome-shaped camera is the ideal choice for monitoring indoor and enclosed areas, such as a boat's wheelhouse, salon or engine room.
Similar to the CAM100, the CAM50 is a plug-and-play device that is compatible with Raymarine's E-Series High Definition Multifunction Displays and G-Series MarineMonitors, enabling boaters to view the camera's output in a full screen or alongside their radar, chartplotter, and fishfinder.Additionally, up to four cameras can be connected to construct a total view of the vessel and its surroundings, allowing boaters to build a robust video observation system that can monitor activity taking place anywhere on the boat.
"The CAM50's sleek and unobtrusive design allows boat owners to monitor activity below deck without compromising the boat's decor," said Terry Carlson, president of Raymarine. "Many of our customers invest a substantial amount of time and money to achieve a desired look, and we're happy to provide them with products that offer the latest safety technology with minimal impact to their design."
In addition to the new CAM50, Raymarine has introduced new reverse image variants of the both the CAM50 and CAM100 cameras. Designed for use as aft- deck monitoring and backup cameras, these new models keep images on the correct side of the screen versus flipping them from left to right as is done with a normal camera. The new reverse image cameras are ideal for monitoring blind spots, decks, engine rooms, salons and crew members.
The CAM50's features include excellent color reproduction, high quality Sony CCD (380 TVL), manual pan and tilt adjustments and a highly sensitive IR sensor for use in low light conditions. The technology is available in NTSC and PAL video output versions, offering extremely high resolution.
For more information about Raymarine call 1-603-881-5200 or visit http://www.raymarine.com.
Miami Boat Show Yields Higher Sales for Many Companies 3/1/07
Fountain Powerboat Industries, Inc. (AMEX: FPB), a leading manufacturer of high performance sport boats, fish boats and express cruisers, announced that it recorded sales of approximately $20 million during the show. Fountain had boats in the convention center, outside the convention center, and at the Sea Isle marina.
"This has been a tremendous show for Fountain and the most successful boat show in our history," said Chief Executive Officer Reggie Fountain, Jr. "Show attendance was down from last year, but traffic to our booth was spectacular with this year's sales increasing approximately 17 percent over last year. Not only did the new 35' Lightning and 38' Sportfish Cruiser ramp up our sales during the show, but we sold six 48' Express Cruisers -- our top-of-the-line boat.”
The Miami Boat Show proved to be a great success for Azimut Yachts, Italian world leader in the luxury yachts doing over $500 million in sales the last time we looked. The Italian shipyard attended this important international event for the 24th year running. More than 60 yachts were sold during the Boat Show, overtaking last year’s record, according to the company.
"This year’s sales trend at the Miami Boat Show," said Federico Martini, CEO of Azimut Yachts, "confirms the appreciation shown for our products by our American clientele… In fact, over the last ten years, more than 400 yachts have been delivered there, placing Azimut as the top non-American shipyard for sales."
In order to best serve its client base, Azimut Yachts has 11 dealers in North, Central and Latin America.
Azimut Yachts’ next stop will be the Dubai Boat Show from the 13 to 17 March 2007 where its new flagship of the open range, Azimut 103S, will be presented.
Tiara Yachts announced the third consecutive year of increased traffic and robust sales during the 2007 Miami International Boat Show.
Robert Slikkers, President of Tiara Yachts, reported, "A preliminary review of our results shows that visitors to our booth increased by more than 30% this year, led by a larger than ever number of new domestic customers. Many people came to see a sneak-peek of our 5800 SovranTM which will launch this spring. Others came to take a closer look at the Open and SovranTM models we had on display. Most importantly customers came to the show to buy, which is demonstrated by the strong order volume we received this year.”
Tiara Yachts had large displays at both the Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center and the Miami Beach Convention Center. A key feature of their exhibit was a preview of their 5800 SovranTM, the new flagship for the company that will be introduced later this year. Click here to see tested Tiaras.
"It was an exceptional show for us," said Michael J. Scruggs, president of Riviera Yachts of the Americas. When we spoke to Mike on Friday night at his owners’ party at the Bentley Hotel -which Riviera rented in its entirety - the company had sold 12 new boats, but when all of the dust had settled, Riviera ended up with $25 million worth of orders, the company said. Scruggs praised his dealers for getting over 200 Rivera owners to the show. “We had a great show but we worked for months to make it successful,” he said.
Bertram Yachts was standing tall at its display on Collins Avenue, part of the huge Ferretti Group display. Don Jones, VP of Marketing and Sales said that were having their best Miami show since he joined the company many years ago. "Usually we close customers a week or two after the show, "Jones said, "but this year people are giving us checks right in the booth."
ABYC Elects New Officers and Names Board 3/1/07
The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), the organization responsible for setting the standards to which American boatbuilders are expected to meet or exceed in order to be a member of the NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association), elected new officers during its annual meeting at the Miami show.
During the meeting, Past Chair Dennis Graham of Teleflex Morse, Inc. officially introduced the incoming officers:
Chairman of the Board - Bill Drake. Bill is Vice President Engineering at Marinco-AFI and has been with Marinco since 1988. Bill serves on the Executive Committee, and he is a member of ABYC’s electrical project technical committee, as well as a member of the Nominating Committee. He is also a speaker at ABYC’s Electrical Systems in Boats seminar. Bill is a member of the National Electrical Code Technical Correlating Committee, past member of the National Electrical Code, Code Panel 5 and 17, member and past chairman of the NEMA, Wiring Device Section’s Technical Committee, and member of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors.
Vice Chairman of the Board - Gerry Douglas. Gerry is Vice President and a Principal of Catalina Yachts and has been employed with Catalina since 1976. Gerry most recently held the position of Treasurer of ABYC and chair of the Business & Financial Planning Committee. He also serves on the Executive Committee, Nominating Committee and is on the Technical Information PTC. Gerry is also a member of the Industrial Designers Society of America and the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers. He actively sails his own boat and pursues other sailing and volunteer activities.
Technical Chairman of the Board - Dave Marlow. Dave is the Director of Product Integrity for the Brunswick Boat Group. Dave is a Past Chair of the ABYC Board of Directors and is a current member of the Board's Executive Committee and Nominating Committee, as well as Chair of the Technical Board and a PTC member. He currently serves as a presidential appointed member of the USCG's National Boating Safety Advisory Council. Dave is a member of the Recreational Craft Sectoral Group for the development of ISO standards, the Boat Owner's Association of the USA, Society of Automotive Engineers, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers and a member of the Board of Directors for IMCI. He is a past Lippman Award recipient and a contributing member to ABYC's TC 188 Technical Advisory Group.
Treasurer - Dan Gribble. Dan Gribble is the President of Boatswain’s Locker and a lifelong marine enthusiast who has raced sailboats his entire life. Dan graduated from UC Berkeley with a BS in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Naval Architecture. He also has an MBA from UC Irvine. When Dan assumed ownership of the family business, he changed the focus of the company to the wholesale distribution and service of marine propulsion. He is a sponsor for various inner city boating programs and fishing tournaments.
Incoming Board Directors include:
Barry Acker, President/CEO of The Landing School of Boatbuilding and Design.
George Bellwoar, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Miami-based Perko.
Thomas J. Marhevko, VP, Engineering Standards for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) in Chicago.
Returning Board Directors include:
Joe Charles, Charles Industries
Jim Ellis
Dennis Graham, Teleflex Morse, Inc.
F. Steven Herb, Nelson, Hesse
Jack Hornor, Marine Survey & Design
Rich Kolb, Volvo Penta of the Americas
Eleanor Mariani, State of CT - Dept. of Environmental Protection
Jeff Melby, Genmar Holdings, Inc.
Tim O’Connor, LEM Products, Inc.
Bill Parlatore, Passagemaker Magazine
Lorenzo Pollicardo, UCINA
John Sima, Sima Marine
Chris Washburn, Washburn’s Boatyard
Jack Westerbeke, Westerbeke Corporation
"Pod-Drives" Are Being Embraced By a Wide Cross Section of Builders, Designers, and Customers. 2/21/07
We heard it again and again all over the show this year -- "Pod-drives are here to stay and they are going to be standard equipment on all boats where they are appropriate." That means right now we are seeing them on mid-range cruising boats that were V-drive or inboards from about 32’ to 45’, but clearly that window will widen both up and down as drive units become available for larger and smaller diesel engines, and gasoline engines later. The scuttlebutt on the dock is that they will be ready for gas engines in a couple of years, maybe sooner.
Introduced two years ago by Volvo-Penta, their IPS (Inboard Performance System) with its pod attached to the bottom of the boat and its forward facing propellers, was revolutionary. But the boating consumers were slow to warm up to the concept. That is now changing. The talk on the dock is how easy the IPS system with its joystick is to dock and maneuver a boat. It makes everyone look like a professional captain – and wives and girlfriends love it. Now they don’t have to lug lines and fenders when coming into port. With an IPS drive and joystick, that’s now man’s work – along with anchoring – and the damsel on the boat will gladly take the helm.
With about 20 minutes of practice almost anyone can get the hang of it. It also eliminates the need for bow thrusters on small and mid-size boats which have been getting increasingly popular over the last 5 years, as have stern thrusters on boats over 75’.
MerCruiser has announced its version of the concept, called the Zeus drive which is paired with a Cummins/MerCruiser diesel. The company says they will be available to ship production units for 2008 models.
But right now your only choice for 2007 is the Volvo-Penta IPS, and having tested several boats over the last 12 months powered with this equipment, all of our test captains praise the system. More and more companies are designing new boats specifically for the IPS drive, and at least one company - Formula - has re-tooled their 45 Yacht to take full advantage of Volvo-Penta’s new technology.
We interviewed Formula’s exclusive designer, John Adams, at the Miami Boat Show and he said, "If we had our way we wouldn’t build any more boats with V-drives or inboards. These pod-drives push the boat faster with less horsepower and are lighter. The joystick makes docking easy for anyone."
Both Volvo-Penta and Cummins/MerCruiser claim that their drives increase fuel efficiency by "up to 30%" and give the boat "as much as" 15% higher top speed." But even if performance improvements are only half of those numbers, most people will be elated, particularly since the price is the same as standard drives.
Consumers are getting used to the notion of Volvo-Penta’s forward-facing props, and if they are good enough for the Queen Mary II, one might suppose that the design is more efficient. Cummins/MerCruiser is banking that consumers will prefer their more standard aft-facing prop pod. Since the Zeus drive requires pockets or tunnels and have a more restricted field of movement, it will be a long time before there is anything close to an apples-to-apples test.
Yamaha Surprises Miami Boat Show with a New 350-hp Outboard Engine. 2/21/07
While most of the engine makers had a new engine or two to show, Yamaha took a huge bow for its new 350-hp, four stroke EFI engine. And when we say "new" we mean, designed from scratch. According to Phil Dyskow, President of Yamaha, the idea of building a 350-hp unit came to him while fishing with Eddie Smith on the latter’s new, 36'Grady-White. Dyskow said that he hopped the first plane he could to Japan and the rest is now history. Designing and tooling a new engine is not easy or cheap, and in all likelihood Yamaha has invested $40 million or more into the unit, say some industry experts. While some parts from other Yamaha engines could be used, Dyskow says that there are over 600 completely new parts in the engine.
The company says that it has 45% more thrust than their 250-hp outboard engine. Company spokesmen said that they could easily envision the new 350s on boats up to 40 feet. With the increased reliability of four-stroke engines and electronics, perhaps these engines will also be used as efficient singles, replacing twin 200-hp motors.
Dyskow says that the engines will be available for commercial shipment this summer.
USCG Announces Plans to Tighten Security for Coastal Ports and Shipping. 2/21/07
At the annual meeting of the Boating Writers International held at the Miami Boat Show, a representative of the US Coast Guard put the boating industry on notice that it has been tasked by the Department of Homeland Security to begin measures to make ports and shipping more secure from terrorist threats from small vessels. The Coast Guard will be having hearings this spring and summer to receive input from the interested parties.
Some of the measures being discussed are: universal licensing, requiring transponders on boats, restricting pleasure craft to certain channels of navigation, and having restricted areas near ships. Obviously the attack on the USS Cole on Oct. 12, 2000 which killed 17 sailors and 2 suicide bombers in the harbor at Aden, Yemen is instructive.
None of the options on the table are satisfying from either a "freedom of the waterways" nor from a "security" standpoint. The new rules, whatever they are, will try to navigate between a police state and a fools-in-paradise scenario. We urge you to get involved in this discussion this year as boating in coastal areas is going to change.
NMMA Takes Tough Stand Against Non-ABYC Compliant Boat Builders 2/21/07
Tom Dammrich, president of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) announced at the show that in the future the organization will bar builders from membership who do not comply with ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) standards. For years the ABYC, which is made up of people in the industry respected by their peers for being experts in different aspects of boat construction, has set standards for construction of pleasure boats that go far beyond those required by the USCG. Until two years ago those standards were “optional” or not required by any regulatory authority or even the NMMA.
Historically, some boat builders religiously followed all of the standards, some followed standards that suited them and discarded ones that were too expensive, too much trouble, that they didn’t agree with, or that they felt were not rigorous enough. Other builders followed tougher standards in certain areas, using DNV rules of those promulgated by organizations in Europe.
Two years ago the NMMA started an "ABYC Certification" program. The certification means the following according to the NMMA: "The NMMA program certifies that the design meets the standards as outlined in the NMMA Certification Handbook. The manufacturer has the responsibility of assuming that production units are manufactured in compliance with the certified design."
In the end, you must rely on the integrity of the builder to build all of its boats, all of the time, to ABYC standards.
Last year, BoatTEST.com announced that it would not test any boats that did not have NMMA-ABYC certification. BoatTEST.com Editor Capt John Wenz has been deeply involved with the ABYC and we will keep you posted as the standards evolve.
ABYC standards are intended for small to medium-sized pleasurecrafts, and the scope of the standards does not include motoryachts over a certain size. In most cases quality-builders of those boats meet even stricter rules. European-built boats by well-known companies are built to ICCOMIA standards.
To view a list of all of the builders which the NMMA has certified as complying with ABYC standards, click here.
NMMA Dealer Certification Program Tops 400 and is Growing. Buyers are Now Given a "Bill of Rights" by Certified Dealers. 2/21/07
Over 426 US boat dealers have enrolled in the NMMA-sponsored Dealer Certification Program and 161 have completed it. The NMMA-sponsored workshops teach best dealer practices. While some builders such as Sea Ray and a few others have had programs for years to upgrade the buying and service experience for consumers and there have been some private companies offering this training for dealers, the industry association has never been as aggressive as it is today in upgrading dealer skills. The stated goal of the certification is to upgrade the consumer experience to help keep people in boating once they get in. Click here to read the NMMA’s Consumer’s “Bill of Rights.”
New MerCruiser "Vazer" 100-hp Sterndrive Introduced 2/21/07
Mercury MerCruiser will begin production of Vazer -- a first-of-its kind sterndrive system designed for some boats traditionally powered by outboards -- in March.
Vazer is a 100 horsepower sterndrive engine built with a compact design. It uses an innovative and patented approach to reduce engine height by tilting the engine to 50 degrees, allowing it to fit under seats, platforms and decks of a variety of boats, including pontoons boats, fishing boats, and runabouts. The unique design of Vazer allows boat builders to utilize more space for passengers and gear, and provides improved access to the water compared to traditional sterndrive or outboard engines, according to MerCruiser.
"Vazer will revolutionize the boating industry," said Kevin Grodzki, president of Mercury MerCruiser. "This sterndrive system will enable boat builders to design boats in configurations previously unimaginable."
Anti-Roll Gyro Promises to Reduce Rolling by 50% 2/21/07
Bertram Yachts, a division of the Ferretti Group, had the Mitsubishi "Anti Roll Gyro" (ARG) on display at it’s floating booth in the in-water show at the Collins Ave. venue during the Miami Boat Show. While the product has been out for a couple of years, the news is that Bertram and Ferretti engineers have given it their blessing is significant. Bertram VP of Sales and Marketing and industry veteran, Don Jones, says that the device not only works, but keeps the boat incredibly stable in most sea conditions.
Ferretti engineers are so impressed with the product that they offer the ARG units as optional equipment on most Rivas, Ferrettis and Pershings, and it comes as standard equipment on the largest models in each line.
According to Mitsubishi, not only does the ARG reduce rolling 50%, while under way, but it also reducing rolling at anchor. Since the gyro does not have fins or anything extending through the skin of the boat it does not cost a knot or two in boat speed from the drag caused by fin stabilizers. The company says that it can be installed in all sizes of pleasure boats, both new and as a retro fit. A typical installation will require two units in the stern and one in the bow.
However, the ARG’s are neither light nor inexpensive; just one unit for a 46-footer weighs about 640 pounds and a single unit for a 112-footer weighs about 3,700 pounds. Despite their weight, the units are surprisingly small.
"Earthrace" the Wave Piercing Cummins-Powered Boat is Now Fueled with North Carolina Poultry Fat 2/21/07
"Earthrace" is ready to try to break the world record for circumnavigating the globe in a powerboat and using only renewable fuels. The vessel has visited 40 U.S. cities, promoting fuels like biodiesel and raising awareness about the use of sustainable resources.
Owner-Captain Pete Bethune, a Kiwi, and his three-man crew allowed one and all to walk through "Earthrace" for a $5 donation during the Miami Boat Show. There was a constant stream of people through the narrow carbon fiber and Kevlar vessel during the show.
Circumnavigating the globe represents the pinnacle of powerboat challenges, and at 24,000 nautical miles, is also the world's longest race. The current record of 75 days was set by British boat "Cable & Wireless" in 1998.
"Earthrace" aims to smash this record by completing the voyage in less than 65 days, and will mark the first time in history that an official UIM Powerboat record will be attempted using renewable fuel. It is a showcase of environmentally-friendly technologies such as low-emissions engines, non-toxic anti-fouling paint, and efficient hull design. It is also one of the coolest looking boats ever imagined.
The vessel left Miami on the Tuesday after the show and is currently in the Bahamas making its way to Puerto Rico where it will be on display Feb 24-25th. Current plans call for the record attempt to be started on March 6th from Barbados.
And for those of you who believe what these plucky New Zealanders are doing will make a small difference, you can help them by making a small donation. Go to their website to follow their day by day progress around the world. They plan on being back in Barbados April 28th. Go to
