Your Monthly Boating Art Fix

It doesn’t get much better than this, unless of course you’re cruising! But if you’re not, then you want to fix your gaze on the new 2012 Onne van der Wal photo calendar. Every year, Onne turns his acclaimed photographs into art for your wall. Onne combines his love of sailing and the ocean with his artistic eye. It’s truly functional art for only $25. vanderwal.com

Brave The Elements This Winter With Gill North America

Just in time for the winter season, Gill has launched a new line of marine clothing with the “first ever fully waterproof Softshell Jacket.” Using waterproof, yet breathable seam-sealed fabric, Gill has developed a versatile water-repellent face and a soft, brushed interior for warmth, suitable for almost any waterbased fun. Available in blue (women’s), black or red (men’s), the jackets retail for $239. gillna.com

New Band On Board

There’s a new seasickness band on the horizon and according to the makers, it’s better than the old ones. Psi Bands (pronounced “sigh bands” as in “breathe a sigh of relief”) were invented by a couple of new moms who suffered through morning sickness. With a sense of fashion and relief, they created Psi Bands to be more fun to wear, plus they’re waterproof. They come in some bright colors and patterns and retail for $14.99 to $19.99. You can find them at major drug stores and online: psibands.com.

How To Get Back Into The Boat – The Easy Way!

Enjoying the water is why most of us go boating in the first place, but sometimes getting back into the boat can be… well, just plain difficult. Add wearing swim fins and even climbing up to the aft swim platform can become a huge task. Armstrong’s Telescopic Ladder, just featured at the Marine Equipment Trade Show (METS) in Amsterdam, makes it all easy and safe. The extra wide, flat steps have a rubberized molded tread and the ladder can attach either beneath swim platforms or can be inserted into larger ones. The telescoping ladder can be deck or transom mounted and comes in a three- or fourstep configuration. Of course, since it’s telescoping, it folds compactly for storage. Comes in three different mounting styles and two different links. Pricing starts at $565. armstrongnautical.com January

Let It Flow

Ever hear the annoying sound of your water pump coming on all by itself? Perhaps there’s a leak, but you’ve searched and can’t seem to find it. Thank goodness Jabsco has come up with the V-FLO 5.0 GPM (19 LPM) Water Pressure Pump. It is a variable flow constant pressure water pump. “These new pumps come with Jabsco’s new DiMOND technology designed to automatically diagnose and actively monitor all aspects of the pump’s performance,” said Jay Naval, Product Manager at ITT Corporation. “The underlying philosophy is to provide boat owners with the information needed to enable them to evaluate and respond to a problem before the pump or boat is damaged.” The DiMOND tech continuously monitors the entire system and can detect water system problems. When it does find something it shuts down the pump to protect both you and your boat. You have time to troubleshoot, evaluate and respond before anything is damaged. MSRP: $330. jabsco.com

A Regal Game Changer

Regal has begun production on two all-new deck boat models, the Regal 27 FasDeck and the Regal 27 FasDeck RX. These new models sport Regal’s UltraLounge aft bench and convertible sun pad. The Regal UltraLounge has a multi-position back-rest that is designed to easily convert from an aft facing bench seat to a forward facing bench seat, then to an aft facing lounger and finally to a flat sun-pad that is integrated into the cockpit arena seating. The FasDeck has a fully-enclosed head with sink and plenty of storage, plus the swim platform is mounted only inches from the water for easy boarding. Both versions offer the high-performance and fuel efficiency of Regal’s FasTrac Hull design. Regal’s full width stepped hull draws air under the planning surface of the FasDeck, literally, “un-sticking” the boat from water tension that builds up under traditional hulls. This makes the Regal 27 FasDeck models operate like high performance sport boats, while achieving exceptional fuel economy. “With our FasTrac hull, we made it sporty, similar to what Porsche accomplished with their Cayenne Coupe when compared to other SUVs,” said Duane Kuck, President and CEO. regalboats.com

Raritan Innovation For Better Discharge Control

Raritan knows more about effluent than anyone and that’s why they are interested in helping you to protect the environment by following mandated waste discharge regulations. To that end, Raritan offers the Tru-Design Electronic Aquavalve. Ideal for use in applications where remote push-button diversion and control of discharge flow is needed, Aquavalve can be integrated into a vessel’s electronic system to give owners full electronic control from one location. The control panel also has a Holding Tank Lock feature, which when paired with responsible holding tank use, helps prevent accidental discharge. raritaneng.com

Flexible Solar Panels  – Equal In Strength And Power

At least that’s what the folks at CBC Corp, manufacturers of the Ganz Eco-Energy Flexible Solar Panels claim. Made expressly for marine use, their solar panels are highly efficient, weatherproof and designed to provide clean, quiet and reliable power in 6W, 12W, 30W, 40W and 55W units. These solar cells have the industry’s highest conversion efficiency, providing maximum power while taking up less space on deck. An unbreakable plastic film surface with semi-flexible aluminum backing make these panels ideal for mounting on flat or gently curved decks. Each panel has 4 grommet-finished holes for mounting along with 10 feet of outdoor rated power cable that connects directly to your battery or a charge controller. These panels provide an excellent electrical source to trickle charge 12V batteries and other devices. cbcamerica.com

The Perfect Bungee?

We’ve all had bad experiences with bungee cords. They lose their stretch and fall apart from sun and salt air exposure. The Perfect Bungee from Just Ducky Products is designed to not crack, break, split, become brittle or scuff, and can withstand exposure to salt water, oil, ozone and even comes with a lifetime guarantee. Made of super-strong polyurethane, the Perfect Bungees stretch up to twice their original length. Available in a variety of sizes and colors, the Perfect Bungee is the perfect tool to have while enjoying a day on the boat.
The Flex Web Bungee is perfect for securing anything trying to jump ship. String several fixed end cords together via a central ring to create a 4, 6, or 8 arm “web” in two different lengths. Then toss them into your locker without a worry!
Just Ducky also makes the Boat Snubber which can withstand 1,000 pounds of pull and can accommodate up to a 3/4-inch diameter mooring line. justduckyproducts.com

Dual Touch Display With Fingertip Control

Are you addicted to the pinch and wipe associated with really smart devices like the iPhone/iPad? Now there’s a marine multi-touch monitor available with the same technology from Kessler-Ellis Products (KEP) Marine. The new KEPM GB Dual Touch Glass Bridge Display series offers fingertip control on a haze- and glare-free screen. Designed to enhance the use of nav software such as Furuno MaxSea, Nobeltec TimeZero Trident and others, the KEPM GB series comes in 15-, 17-, 19- and 22-inch (widescreen) displays. kepmarine.com

One Mean Looking Anchor

If the newest anchor on the market has a bite that’s as mean as its look, then the XYZ Extreme is bound to succeed. Founded in 2005, XYZ Marine Products has created a precision, heavy duty, light and compact anchor with a holding power equal to 2-3 times that of other anchors. The XYZ delivers almost instant and deep setting with a related 360-degree performance. Its design enables setting even on very hard-to-penetrate bottoms such as slippery weeds, corals and mixed sand/weeds/rocks. The modular XYZ offers a choice of flukes and is made of 316L stainless steel or light marine grade aluminum (3/8”/10mm solid machined plate). The anchor’s saw cutting blade is machined with the precision of ultra hard 17-4PH stainless steel. The fluke area of the 18lbs/8kg Extreme is about equal to the fluke area of a 45lbs/20kg
CQR or Bruce. The shank is built from mirror polished 2205 stainless steel. Practical Sailor Magazine gave the XYZ Extreme high marks stating, “We awarded it a top pick based on its performance. This boat anchor will not break out, even when overpowered. Competitors were Delta, Bruce, Spade, Bulwagga, CQR and all the other best boat anchors in the world.” xyzanchor.com

Keeping It New, Fresh, Clean and Dry

Aqua-Clean Foams Away
Bathroom Soap Scum

Thetford is the name you can trust for safe, gentle cleaners and green products. Their newly reformulated Ultra-Foam Aqua-Clean Kitchen and Bath Cleaner is proven safe for the environment with its “Design for the Environment” recognition. Plus it comes in a convenient trigger spray bottle. Its multi-purpose formula requires little or no scrubbing, so you can complete your cleaning tasks quickly and get back to the fun of being out on the water. Aqua-Clean Foam is gentle, non-abrasive, safe on seals and powerful on all surfaces. thetford.com

Functionality Of Space
In A Long Range Cruiser

Last month, Carver Yachts unveiled their newest yacht, the 54 Voyager, at boat shows on both coasts. Investing in style and innovation, the new design illustrates their continued commitment to delivering luxurious yet functional yachts at a great value. Carver takes pride in giving customers a reason to consider buying their family a new boat by creating new and exciting designs like the 54V. True to its pedigree, the new design focuses on space, layout, function, long-range cruising and efficiency, marked by a state-of-the-art joystick control and maneuvering system. carveryachts.com

Flush Your Engine Simply

Whether flushing an inboard engine for winterization, for regular maintenance, or when moving between bodies of water, the process has now been simplified with Perko’s FlushPro. Now there’s no need to crawl under the boat, open the engine hatch, custom-rig connections or turn valves on and off. FlushPro is available for hose sizes 5/8 inches, 1 inch or 1-1/4 inches, and it makes freshwater flushing as easy as connecting to a garden hose. A supplied adapter makes boat winterizing a snap. The unit’s transparent body allows visual monitoring of water flow. Flush Pro’s durable check valve system is activated by water pressure from the hose and automatically shuts off hull intake when pressure is applied.
Made of heavy-duty polymer with a stainless steel spring, Flush Pro is available in two models. The system also works for flushing onboard generators or air conditioning units. perko.com

Keep Your Tunes Dry

The new Digital Media Locker from Marine Audio Systems manufacturer Aquatic AV keeps most any digital music-playing device clean and dry on board—and allows the user to remotely select and play music up to 40 feet away. Rated for use in wet and dusty environments, the Digital Media Locker has a built-in amplifier and pre-amp outputs to connect external amplifiers. A radio frequency two-way remote controls music functions while the device stays dry inside the locker. Flush mounts easily. Compatible with iPod, MP3, U.S. and Euro FM radios. aquaticav.com

Yacht Club Mil-Spec

Naiad’s new 10-meter RHIB combines the finish of a custom yacht with a proven military-spec platform. Built on a 5086 marine-grade aluminum hull subdivided by three watertight bulkheads into four sealed compartments for reserve flotation. Naiad designs are famous for their durability, sea-keeping ability, safety and handling. This vessel shares its platform and hull construction with the 10-meter Naiads in use by the USMC off the coast of Somalia. They also share with those used by the U.S. Department of Justice in anti-terrorism and anti-piracy operations overseas. Fuel capacity of this vessel is 180 gallons with an option for up to 280 gallons, giving the boat a range of up to 400 miles at a cruising speed of 34 knots depending on load and selected options. Twin 300-hp Mercury Verados give a top speed of over 50 knots with optional jack plates. Full engine guard is standard. Electronics include a Raymarine C120W Hybridtouch chartplotter/radar/sounder, Raymarine autopilot, Icom VHF, and Fusion iPod dock stereo system. Naiad has many decking and seating options, including mil-spec (military specifications) shock mitigating seating for the ultimate in crew safety and performance. The tube system is Naiad’s patented polyurethane inflatable collar with rod and bolt rope attachment system. Foam collars in several configurations are available. These systems are the most durable in the industry. naiadnewport.com

These Lights Only Come Out At Night

Accon Marine offers up the 205 Series Pop-Up Port Lights, 206 Starboard and 207 Side Lights. These unobtrusive lights flip down flush during the day or when not in use, keeping the deck free of protruding, toe-crushing hazards. All three models are U.S. Coast Guard-approved for one nautical mile, are NMMA-accepted and meet 72 Colregs. Made of marine grade 316 stainless steel, they are illuminated with a #78 bulb. A plastic waterproofing cup prevents water runoff below deck. Installation is easy with a cut-out template and three #10 screw fasteners. Prices start at $156.49. acconmarine.com

 The “Buzz” About Anchors Says… Get A Rocna!

If you’ve been reading the cruising forums online, then you already know that the most preferred anchor of cruisers all over the planet is the Rocna anchor. Designed for smaller, lighter-weight boats, this galvanized hook sets firmly and is easily retrieved in all conditions. The Rocna Fisherman’s design is based on the original and possesses stopping power vastly superior to equivalent-weight plough or claw type anchors in soft sand or mud due to the large, concave blade.
Notice that roll-bar? It’s probably what makes the Rocna so well loved. Since it’s a self-righting anchor, it will always turn itself to the correct attitude for setting. The skid rails then direct the blade into the seabed and the chisel-like tip easily cuts through weeds or hard bottoms making it great for Bahamas cruising. The handy roll-bar can also be used as a handle if it’s fouled so it can be recovered from the surface by snaring the roll-bar with a grapnel or other hook. The Rocna Fisherman is also ecologically friendly—owners don’t have to worry about anchor drag in fragile environments. Rocna anchors have a suggested retail price starting at $159.99. rocna.com

Shoot Like A Pro Underwater

It’s always a delight to cruise in beautiful crystal clear Caribbean waters, but to be able to capture those undersea moments… well now, that’s even more delightful. To take those fantastic photographs of the family frolicking under the sea you’ll need this special camera, new Mini II from SeaLife, the choice of scuba pros everywhere.
Waterproof up to 130 feet and rubber armored for a sure grip, it’s also shockproof so you can drop it from up to 6 feet with no ill effects! The Mini II is compact, rugged and ready for adventure. The Easy Set-up mode on-screen guide ensures the 9 MP camera is set correctly for sharp, high-resolution pictures, both above or under water. Plus, the buttons are really easy to operate. The camera is perfect for anyone who loves the water: cruisers, divers, snorkelers, fishermen, paddlers and any fun-seeking adventurer. Though it uses AAA batteries, online reviewers claim that you’ll have enough power for two dives. The Mini II is compatible with many SeaLife accessories, including the Digital Pro Flash, Photo/Video Light and Wide Angle Lens. The Mini II retails for $229.95. sealife-cameras.com

Keep Both Your Tunes and Your Beach Party Cool

The new Igloo 40 qt. Cool Fusion Icy Tunes cooler fuses together the features and benefits of hard and soft side coolers. Featuring a sturdy telescoping handle and over-sized wheels for sand travel, there are several pockets for such items as a cell phone, sun block, sunglasses, etc. But what’s so special about this cooler is that it comes with speakers and an amplifier that can be used with any MP3 player. Just pop your iPhone or iPod Touch into the music player pouch that connects to the sound system from outside or inside and you’ve got a beach boombox! Or, listen to the built-in radio. It has an elastic cord on its lid that offers additional utility and carrying support and with the Ultratherm Insulation you also have enhanced ice retention. Retails for $149.99. igloo-store.com

Swiss-made, Spinnaker Ready!

STØLÅS Watch Company created the Harbormaster collection to be a fusion that successfully melds together luxurious design with practical and durable functionality. Highly refined, Swiss-made instrument boasts an ETA movement visible through its Sapphire exhibition case back. It is packaged with a stainless steel bracelet or rubber strap with orange stitching on the Genoa or, one can choose the Spinnaker, which features a beautiful carbon fiber dial. With its pleasant teal blue colors on the bezel, numbers, and a shocking orange lightening bolt second hand—it’s a timepiece that makes people stop and stare. But wait, there’s more: when the sun sets the Spinnaker’s photoluminescence properties are just getting warmed up. The Spinnaker features four different luminescence paints that all contribute to the awe-inspiring brightness this watch has to offer. The Harbormaster collection adds the “Wow factor” in its extreme case design, superior luminosity and reliable quality movements. It’s the choice of adventurists everywhere. stolaswatch.co/watch

Onos Unveils Ernest Hemingway Polarized Performance Sunglasses

Just in time for the crowning of the new Hemingway Look-Alike in Key West! (See Scuttlebutt – page 96.) Onos Trading Company has just launched their newest collection of bold “see-and-be-seen” shades, inspired by the author’s large life, world adventures and enduring literary works… it was simply a matter of time before his name also became a brand. “I look at the new Ernest Hemingway sunglasses and I think, yes, my father would have chosen to wear these and I think his characters would too,” said Patrick Hemingway, son of the Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winner.
Ernest Hemingway Polarized Performance Sunglasses come in six styles and will retail for less than $180 as single-focal “plano” sunglasses or as dual-focals, featuring standard upper lenses and low-profile bifocal readers with 1.50, 2.00 and 2.50 magnifications. Bifocal magnifiers help with close-up tasks like looking over a menu at an outdoor café, voyage planning, charting or reading Ernest Hemingway short stories in the cockpit. To get yours, call 866-865-4695 or go to onos.com.

New Pocket-Sized Life Saver

ACR Electronics has just received final FCC approval for their newest personal locator, the ResQLink, the world’s smallest 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) now being shipped to dealers for sale to consumers in the U.S.
The new unit is small and light enough to hold comfortably in one hand, yet powerful enough to guide rescuers to within 100 meters of the user’s position in a life-threatening emergency. It weighs under five ounces and is just four inches tall, but offers a lot of technology for its size, giving boating enthusiasts, pilots or other adventurers a true safety companion. Add the 406Link.com subscription service and ResQLink can be tested through the Cospas-Sarsat International worldwide network of rescue satellites, assuring owners that their beacon is ready when needed. MSRP: $279.99. acrelectronics.com

Dog it Down Without Damage

Sea-Dog has partnered with Chok-A-Blok in England to become the exclusive U.S. distributor of the patented Strap Guard, a product that protects boats, jet skis, ATV’s, motorcycles or any other important cargo from strap damage when being transported. An extremely tough polypropylene sleeve on top of a nitrogen-filled, closed cell foam backing is lightweight, tough and flexible while being resistant to moisture, oils, solvents, and UV rays. Here’s how it works: as tension is applied to the strap, friction-caused damage to the surface of the cargo is eliminated as the strap is allowed to slide effortlessly across the slick polypropylene surface.
The Strap Guard supports 2-inch wide straps and measures 2 and 3/8 inches wide by 7 inches long by 3/4 inches thick. Priced at $9.99 to $10.99, they can be purchased online. sea-dog.com

Vintage Classic Cold-Molded Vicem

Vicem Yachts, Istanbul-based builders of luxury classic motor yachts, plans to debut its 100-foot Cruiser later this month.
“The new 100 Cruiser epitomizes the three hallmarks of every Vicem yacht: exuding a classic look of timeless design, exemplifying the Vicem ideals for unmatched craftsmanship with a commitment to total customization, and the cold-molded method of construction. But this timeless, classic design 50 meter Vicem has undergone a sophisticated makeover with a number of new refinements, thanks to Vicem’s in-house design team,” stated Vicem Yacht’s President, Dirk M. Boehmer. The yacht was built at the company’s Antalya yards of all mahogany cold-molded construction, in-house wood and steel craftsmanship, inside and out. It features five cabins for ten guests, three crew cabins, an “over-sized” U-shape Gaggenau kitchen, plus a 70-square meter (750-sq. ft.) flybridge. vicemyacht.com

Mercury Marine Unveils Quicksilver Propeller Selector

Mercury Marine recently launched a new prop selector for Quicksilver branded propellers. The online prop selector allows buyers to select the correct propeller for their boats in five convenient steps. Simply answer a few questions and the Quicksilver prop selector guides you to the right propeller, no matter what brand of outboard or sterndrive you may have. Find the best propeller for acceleration, handling, fuel economy, overall performance and top speed. qsprops.com/prop-selector

Azimut 45: The New Italian Stallion

The newest model from Italy’s Azimut Yachts made its debut in Venice. The Azimut 45 Flybridge motor yacht gets it’s good looks from Italian yacht designer, Stefano Righini, while Carlo Galeazzi designed the interior. Power comes via twin 480-metric horsepower Cummins engines for a top speed of 32 knots. azimutyachts.com

Easy Does It!

TigerShark makes this top-mount outrigger holder, which features a bottom-mounted crank assembly for ease of deployment. Simply push up on the handle to release the gears and turn 10 to 12 times to completely deploy your outriggers to maximum bait spread. Then pull the handle down to lock them into place. It couldn’t be simpler.
No more climbing the gunwales to adjust your outriggers! tigressoutriggers.com

A Seat for All Seasons

This portable seat is a great solution for boat owners who want to accommodate additional guests on deck in comfort. Manufactured by WIC in The Netherlands and distributed in the U.S. exclusively by G2 Products of Jupiter, Florida, the ComfortSEAT is a durable folding cushion with a galvanized steel inner frame that allows you to adjust it into 14 different positions. You can even shape it to fit an angled foredeck. Don’t worry, you won’t feel the steel inside—the ComfortSEAT is filled with thick foam that provides cushioned yet firm support. Overall dimensions are 40″ L x 18″ W x 3″ H.
The easy-care seat has a UV-resistant Sunbrella cover that won’t mildew; the bottom is coated with PVC non-slip material. It’s available in navy blue, ocean blue, blue-and-white stripes, Persian green, dark red, and sand color, and comes with a one-year warranty. Retail price is $99.95. comfortseatus.com

Extreme Elements Wear

Grundéns USA, a name famous for protecting Bering Sea crab fishermen and other professional mariners in the world’s most extreme environments, has launched a new product line designed to bring this same level of quality and performance to all fishing, boating and outdoor enthusiasts. The new line—called Weather Watch Rainwear, is designed to provide lightweight, comfortable protection for boating and other outdoor activities. The Weather Watch family includes jackets, bibs and pants in a variety of colors and a full range of sizes from XS to 5-XL. grundens.com

Keep the Catch Cool

Fishing boat owners keen to preserve their catch in tip-top condition have been choosing Dometic Marine’s range of Eskimo Ice Cube crushed-ice systems for over 25 years. The Eskimo Ice systems can deliver freshwater flaked-ice up to 35 feet from the engine room position to convenient deck locations such as a fish box or a cooler.
Smart digital monitors can be mounted remotely at helm positions or in a cabin for convenience and ease of operation. They display the system’s operational status and any alarms to the skipper and crew at all times. If there are any problems, they can be resolved as soon as possible to preserve the ongoing production and supply of ice. dometic.com.

On-Deck Sandals

Living in sunny Florida, I welcomed the idea of adding a pair of sandals to my usual wardrobe of fully enclosed boat shoes. The OKA b sandals I sea-trialed (the Tara model, shown at top) have molded non-slip soles that gave me a solid grip on the boat’s deck. Fully waterproof and bacteria-resistant, they are manufactured using recycled materials, so you can feel like you’re helping the environment by wearing them. Not everyone likes thong sandals, but those who do will appreciate OKA b’s ergonomic design and signature foot-massaging bumps molded into the topsides.
OKA b offers an extensive line of women’s waterproof, non-slip sandals in a wide range of colors, adorned with jewels, flowers, ribbons or bows. I got compliments on my sandals wherever I wore them. New for 2011 is the Candy Colored Gems line.  OKA b women’s sandals range in price from $20 to $40. The company also has a limited assortment of men’s sandals that are suitable for marine use. – Louisa Beckett
shoesthatloveyou.com

Red, White and Retro

The latest project from this over 80-year-old builder of classic Fairform Flyer yachts is an elegantly retro sportfishing model. Billed as “stealth-inspired”, the Huckins Sportfisherman 44 will have the Jacksonville, Florida, builder’s patented Quadraconic hull, which combines a smooth, dry ride with optimum fuel-efficiency. Top speed is projected to be in excess of 30 knots. Huckins is offering owners the opportunity to extensively customize the boat to suit their taste and needs. huckinsyacht.com

Reel ‘em in

Ever want to kick back and drop a line in the water—just for the fun of it? Penn may have just the rod and reel for you. Its GT Level Wind combo combines a Penn reel with a lightweight graphite Penn Slammer rod. The reel also contributes to the lightness of the set-up. It has a graphite frame, machined and anodized aluminum spool and a high-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear. Penn’s GT family of Level Wind reels is a popular choice of anglers in just about every location due to their reliability, durability and performance. When matched to the Penn Slammer rods, the Penn GT Combos are well suited to all varieties of fishing. They are factory-balanced, great-looking, and ready for whatever fishing challenges you want to try. The GT Level Wind Combo is available in three lengths: 6.5 feet, 7 feet and 8.5 feet. Catch ‘em while they’re biting. MSRP: $130  pennreels.com

Country Eyewear

Costa Del Mar Sunglasses and country music star and four-time CMA entertainer of the year Kenny Chesney have partnered up to design the singer’s first line of signature sunglasses. Proceeds generated from the sale of Costa Kenny Chesney Limited Edition Sunglasses will benefit the Coastal Conservation Association, a shared cause for both Kenny and Costa. The five Limited Edition frames, which feature Costa’s patented 580 lens technology—Hammerhead, Caballito, Rincon, Howler and Little Harbor—feature Kenny’s signature and unique hand-drawn artwork etched onto each frame style. The artwork designs on each sunglass style are tied to a piece of Kenny’s life – one style features the song lyric, “No Shoes. No Shirt. No Problems!” while another commemorates the 2011 “Goin’ Coastal” tour. The etched sunglass designs are reminiscent of scrimshaw, an ancient art form practiced by Native Americans and then Yankee whalemen in the 1800s.   costadelmar.com

Bayliss Begins its Biggest Boat

Bayliss Boatworks in Wanchese, North Carolina, began construction of the B1-84’ Orion in April, its largest project to date. The sportfisher’s specifications also include many other company firsts and custom features. The design is a collaborative effort between Bayliss and yacht designer Robert Ullberg. The 84-foot Orion will be their first boat to feature a navy blue hull. Her five-stateroom/five-head layout will include Bayliss’ first full-beam master, featuring a six-foot walk-in closet, office desk, L-shaped sofa and king-sized berth. Powered by a pair of MTU M94s producing 2,600 hp each, she will have a top speed of 40 knots. Her 17-foot cockpit will feature a huge mezzanine, stainless refrigeration compartments, an in-deck stainless fishbox and transom box.

Wear the Shark

Long known for its marine footwear, RuggedShark is introducing an apparel line for Spring 2011. Every item of clothing uses fine cotton poplin and moisture wicking, quick-drying fabrics. RuggedShark apparel also is designed to allow unencumbered freedom of movement. Performance features include Shark Shield sun protection; Shark Gill thermo-regulating systems and Shark Repel breathable waterproofing. The line includes long- and short-sleeve technical fishing shirts with mesh-vented back panels, strategic pockets with hook-and-loop closures and button-down collars with Shark Shield in soft cotton poplin or quick-dry nylon, as well as shorts, pants, rain and head gear. ruggedshark.com

Cool on Wheels

Igloo Products Corporation has introduced a new, 110-quart, wheeled cooler featuring a unique, patent-pending telescoping handle. With the handle extended and locked, it provides the mechanical advantage of a rickshaw, allowing the cooler to be pulled and pushed with 50-percent less effort. If you find yourself having to move a load of drinks or fish and ice over sand or cobblestones, consider a cooler from Igloo’s All Terrain series. The Glide is offered in a series of three models: the Glide, Glide Pro and Glide Elite. Depending on the model, they are insulated for up to five to six days ice retention. MSRP: $129.99 to $159.99; igloo.com

Dehook ’em

Bahamas charter fishing boat Captain Billy Black had the need to retrieve his hook from deep inside the fish he’d caught. He was tired of losing his favorite lures, and they were expensive. So he invented the Dehooker.
Captain Billy Black’s “Pro-Series” Dehooker is the best device made in America for the purpose of removing dangerous fishing hooks from gamefish, according to the captain himself (and many fishermen agree). He designed it to retrieve prized fishing lures while simultaneously removing sharp hooks quickly and safely from the jaws of captured fish without further harming the fish. Field-tested by pro anglers, the Dehooker is fabricated by hand using the finest surgical stainless steel available. MSRP: $69.95; captbillyblackdehooker.com

Not Your Father’s Sunglasses

With the summer sun at full tilt this time of year, owning a pair of premium polarized sunglasses quickly becomes a necessity. But with so many options available, how do you select the pair that’s right for you?

Premium sunglass brands like Costa offer a variety of options for boating enthusiasts. For 2011, Costa features several new metal styles, like its South Point model, upper image. Costa recently introduced a line of sunglasses for women, available with its patented 580™ lens technology. Like the Little Harbor model shown above, Costa sunglasses are hand-assembled in Daytona Beach, Florida, and come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defects. To check out the latest styles or find a retailer near you, visit costadelmar.com.

Sun and glare protection: Look for polarized lenses with 100 percent UVA/UVB protection embedded into the lens, so it can’t wipe off no matter how many cleanings it gets. Also, choose a brand that features anti-glare technology. When you’re spending hours scanning the horizon from the bow, you want sunglasses that are going to reduce eye fatigue and prevent eye strain.
Lens colors: Where you are on the water makes a big difference when it comes to choosing a lens color that will work best for you. For inshore or freshwater boating, select a copper, amber or green mirror lens, which allows more light to enter your eye. The resulting contrasts will help you see through the water more clearly. For offshore boating, when you’re faced with miles of blue ocean and a vast horizon, select a gray or blue mirrored lens to cut distortion.
Frame fit: Look for sunglasses with a wrap shape to protect the sensitive skin near your temples from sun exposure. Also, features such as no-slip nose pads and flexible frame arms will provide a comfortable fit. Anti-fogging frame vents and anti-corrosive hinges will come in handy when you’re battling the elements this summer.

Horizon’s New Cat

After building a small solar power catamaran and a one-off 80-foot cat, Horizon Yacht—whose mainstay is offshore monohull motoryachts ranging up to 148 feet—decided to add a 58-foot power cat model to its portfolio. The result, the Horizon PC58, will be on display at the 2011 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October.
Built at Horizon’s shipyard in Taiwan utilizing the high-tech SCRIMP construction process, the P58 has three ensuite staterooms, including an on-deck master with a king-size berth. The other two staterooms sleep four in queen and twin berths, respectively. A perfect party platform, the yacht has a huge saloon and a sheltered aft deck with a teak table that seats eight.
One of the primary benefits of a power cat is its stable ride. The P58 is equipped with a pair of 600-horsepower Cummins diesel engines that are projected to provide a top speed of 25 knots, and a comfortable cruising speed of 20 knots. Bridge deck clearance is an acceptable 34 inches. horizonyacht.com

Just in Case

A boat can be a rough environment for personal electronics, but the Defender Series case for iPhone 4 by OtterBox offers the utmost in protection. A polycarbonate shell with built-in screen protector completely encases the device. The case is finished with an impact-absorbing silicone skin that covers all ports and plugs, protecting them from wear and tear while still allowing for easy access. A holster-style swivel belt clip that doubles as a media stand is also included.
OtterBox also offers the Defender Series case for the iPad (shown), as well as the Utility Series Latch to keep your iPad from going flying. The Latch’s straps wrap the corners of the iPad to securely hold the device. Its padded hand strap is adjustable to accommodate different hand sizes. It comes with an adjustable lanyard, screen cover and s-biner utility clip. otterbox.com

Bahama Goes Hawaiian

Tommy Bahama sets sail with a new sportswear collection in honor of the 46th running of the Transpac Yacht Race, which starts July 4, 2011. A special “Collector’s Edition” shirt serves as the centerpiece of this sea-inspired collection, which also features select sportswear pieces, including long and short sleeve shirts, shorts, pullovers and hats, and a technical sailing shoe. It will be available in stores and online starting in June. Held every other (odd-number) year, the Transpac, which runs downwind from Long Beach, California, to Honolulu, Hawaii, is one of the oldest offshore yacht races in existence. It gets warmer as you go, and you finish off Diamond Head. tommybahama.com

Serving Up Fresh Libations

Always ready, Conelly Cocktails come in a twin-can configuration with the correct measure of alcohol in one can, and the proper amount of mixer in other, to make a delicious drink. It’s the ingenious way the alcohol and other ingredients are kept separate until mixed that makes these cocktails fresh and unique. Order up a Sex on the Beach, Mai-Tai, Planters Punch, Ladykiller, or Tequila Sunrise. Any of these five Conelly’s Cocktails are available as individual servings ($5.99), or you can purchase them in the Happy Hour Cocktail Set ($17.99): Designed to resemble a traveler’s bar, it contains three cocktails and a shaker. conelly-cocktails.com

Great Loop, Good Read

Over the course of four summers, from 2005 through 2008, Bruce and Susan Armstrong cruised the Great Loop counter-clockwise starting from their homeport in Naples, Florida. Thanks to several side trips, the Armstrongs put 7,000 miles under the keel of their Nordhavn 35 Coastal Pilot, Gulf Cart. The book they recently published about their experiences, Coming Full Circle: A Voyage on America’s Great Loop, makes for good reading, not only for the accounts of the trip’s more harrowing moments, like the violent squall that hit them while returning from the Dry Tortugas to Key West, but also for the cruising advice you can glean from their descriptions of ports they stopped at along the way. Their writing is evocative enough to make you truly appreciate the appeal of this classic American cruise, even during the voyage’s quieter moments. The book is illustrated only with maps of their route, but the Armstrongs posted more than 300 photos, along with relevant excerpts from the book, at ArmstrongTravelVentures.com. 284 pages; $18.95

Seeing Red

Fully adjustable illumination, including red lighting for night navigation, is now available with the touch of a finger. The Red/White Light EuroLED Recessed Touch Lamp and Dimmable EuroLED Recessed Lamps from Hella Marine can be recessed into a side wall or overhead. Innovative switching technology on the Red/White Light enables users to lightly touch the red pad for red light or the white pad for white light. Touch the control pad for more than two seconds, and the lamp cycles through increasing or decreasing intensity levels. Light levels are maintained by the lamp circuitry, even if power is interrupted.
The Dimmable series EuroLEDs include a connection with remote dimmers to achieve ambient control. Power consumption is a mere 4 watts on neutral white or warm white and less than 1.5 watts on red. Each device is a sealed unit, highly impact- and shock-resistant. They are available with white, UV-resistant plastic or polished stainless steel rims and measure 5.9 inches in diameter. MSRP for the Red/White Light EuroLED Touch Lamp, $199; Dimmable EuroLED, $119. hellamarine.com.

Nostalgia Is Not a

Thing of The Past

Ritchie’s Skylight Binnacles are manufactured to the same specifications and using the same materials as the Skylight binnacles made by E.S. Ritchie & Sons, Inc. from 1920 to 1950.

The new binnacles already are prized by owners and builders of classic and traditional vessels. They are available in polished brass and polished chrome finishes. The binnacle encloses the Ritchie Globemaster six-inch compass. Special LED green or red lighting is available in 12V and 24V. Compass dials can be ordered in 2 degrees with points or 5 degrees without points. MSRP chrome $2,959; brass $2,792.00;
ritchienavigation.com

Intellian’s World View

Like to watch TV at sea? According to Intellian, its t110W and t130W w-Series antenna upgrades are the only commercial marine satellite TV antennas compatible with programming signals in all world markets. Thanks to the w-Series’ newly designed multi-band WorldView Low Noise Block-Down Converter (LNB) and receiver, these powerful antennas now provide DVB-S2 digital TV reception at sea just like ashore. When the vessel moves from region to region, the t110W and t130W three-axis antennas switch between circular and linear polarized services simply by selecting a new location. The Antenna Control Unit (ACU) adjusts the Intellian-exclusive Auto-Polarizer and the all-new WorldView LNB module to the required frequency and polarization for satellite reception. Intelliantech.com

Keep Baby Safe at Sea

Stearns has produced the first infant-size PFD that conforms to International Convention of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) standards, and it is also U. S. Coast Guard-approved. The SOLAS-approved Infant PFD is the third category of safety devices that must be kept aboard commercial vessels in international waters. The Stearns PFD’s features include maximum buoyancy, heavy-duty hardware, SOLAS whistle, s-biner light clips, lifting loop, and buddy line.  stearnsflotation.com

True North Goes Green

True North Yachts recently launched a diesel-electric hybrid version of its 34-footer, called the 34G. This Downeast-style boat can run quietly at up to six knots for more than four hours on its electric motor. Even with this added feature, however, the 34G doesn’t sacrifice performance. Fire up the conventional 280-hp Steyr diesel engine and it will deliver a 19-knot cruise, a 22-knot top speed, and a 250-mile range.  While the lightweight Steyr diesel engine is operating, it produces 48 volts of electricity to recharge the battery bank. Combined with the Mastervolt inverter/charger, it provides ample AC power to run the hot-water heater, microwave and even an air conditioner, making a generator unnecessary. Canopy-mounted solar panels also supplement the 34G’s batteries. The True North 34G accommodates four people overnight—two on the V-berth in the forepeak and another couple on the convertible cockpit settee. The galley is up on the bridge deck, behind the helm chair. tnyachts.com

Maui Jim and Guy Harvey Team Up

Sunglasses maker Maui Jim commissioned four of marine artist Guy Harvey’s works and translated them into some of the coolest wearable art under the sun. Scenes from Guy’s paintings are depicted on the frames and inner temples of the collection. The “Yellowfin” sunglasses feature a tuna hunting mackerel inside the frame. The “Grander” shows a marlin breaking the water’s surface. “Mahi Mahi” depicts a pair of dorado chasing baitfish. The “Sailfish” style illustrates an iconic Guy Harvey sailfish design on full, wraparound frames. Guy’s marlin line art is also featured on the outside of each frame. Lenses come in three colors: Neutral Grey, perfect for especially bright, direct sunlight; HCL Bronze for everyday variable conditions, and Maui HT (High-Transmission) for times when most sunglass lenses would be too dark. Every pair of Guy Harvey glasses also incorporates Maui Jim’s patented PolarizedPlus2 color infused lens technology. The frames are made of high-grade  nylon, smooth and high-gloss as a result of being tumbled in teakwood and bamboo. mauijim.com;  guyharveydepot.com

Talk to Me

Furuno’s FM4000 is a 25-watt VHF with built-in DSC functionality. Its compact and submersible case design allows for a simplified installation. It features dedicated control buttons and a rapidly operated rotary channel selector, offering easy access to all U.S. and international marine VHF channels. There is also a one-touch Channel 16/9 key. In an emergency, you can simply press the dedicated distress button and transmit an electronic alarm.
You can add the optional remote second-station microphone and remotely control all available functions of the FM4000 (except DSC operation) from a second location on board.  Fitted with the remote mic, the radio also functions as an intercom system. The unit is Bluetooth-headset capable, freeing up your hands for the boat. furunousa.com

Shedding Light on the Sunshine State

As the cover states, the 2011/2012 Florida Cruising Directory contains “Everything you need to know to take your boat, large or small, power or sail, anywhere in Florida.”  At first, that seems boastful, until you read through the book and realize it is complete; from tide tables to sketch charts, bridge schedules, local knowledge, restaurants, and more—it’s all here between the covers of the 29th Edition of the Florida Cruising Directory. The book even includes sections on cruising the Okeechobee Waterway and The Bahamas, along with classified services arranged by region. MSRP $16. floridacruising.com

Bungee Evolution

Everything evolves, including the bungee cord. In fact you’ll covet these bungees. Made completely of polyurethane, the Perfect Bungee from Just Ducky Products won’t crack, break or become brittle. The material can stretch up to twice its original length and it has terrific memory retention. Perfect Bungees are guaranteed for life (that’s a deal) and come in seven colors, including orange and pink. They are offered in eight configurations, all part of the evolutionary process. Get some and start stretching. MSRP starts at $8 apiece; combo packs start at $28.55. theperfectbungee.com

Cutting-Edge Coatings

Italian manufacturer Boero has introduced three new high-tech coatings for the boating market. The first, Boero Corsa 642 Antifouling, is formulated specifically for aluminum hulls and aluminum inboard/outboard parts. It is a copper-free protective coating resistant to slime, algae, barnacles and other marine fouling organisms. It contains no cuprous oxide, so its bright colors look fresh and can be mixed with each other to create different shades. It is well suited for hulls made of fiberglass, wood, and steel.
Boero Altura 619 is a hard, protective antifouling paint formulated for use in the highest fouling areas. It is extremely effective on vessels requiring a harder coating for high-speed usage in demanding operating conditions; it is formulated for use on vessels traveling at 4 to 50 knots, in fresh or salt water. Its hard surface is abrasion-resistant and can be scrubbed if desired.

According to Boero, its Mistral Extra 633 Advanced Self-Polishing Ablative antifouling paint is the longest lasting multi-seasonal formulation on the market.  Yachts coated with this antifouling even can be hauled and relaunched without repainting. It has 50 percent more biocide than some popular ablative products. Mistral Extra 633 is formulated to wash away at a highly controlled rate and will not need to be sanded at the end of its life. boerous.com

What a Life Saver

Ocean Signal’s SafeSea E100 and E100G EPIRBs operate on 406MHz Cospas-Sarsat satellite band and contain a 121.5MHz homing beacon, helping responders locate a mariner in an emergency situation more easily.
The E100G model incorporates an integral GPS and offers the option of manual-release or float-free mounting. It features an LED strobe light with the highest brightness in the industry, making it easy to spot the person in the water at night.
Thoughtfully, the battery—featuring a 96-hour operational life—is both user-replaceable and non-hazardous, so it can be sent through the mail. Intuitive controls for both activation and inspection ensure that the SafeSea E100 will be ready when needed. MSRP $518 oceansignal.com

Serving Up Memories

For more than 30 years, the cartographers at NV.Charts have produced nautical charts of the Baltic Sea, Caribbean, and now, U.S. waters for recreational boat owners. Many of their customers have asked for chart-related gift items, so NV.Charts recently introduced its first accessories: color serving trays and cocktail napkins.

The sturdy 14-inch by 11-inch trays are made in Sweden, and comprise numerous layers of birchwood veneer. They are printed on one side with your choice of charts of these favorite cruising destinations: Newport, Rhode Island; Nantucket, Massachusetts; Exuma, Bahamas;  the Virgin Islands, or the Tobago Cays. The dishwasher-safe trays have melamine-based surfaces capable of withstanding the onslaughts of high heat and detergents. MSRP: $24.
Cocktail napkins featuring a Virgin Islands motif also are available at 20 to a package and are folded to 6.5 by 6.3 inches. MSRP: $3.50 per pack. nv-charts.com

New Boat for The Moorings

Global bareboat and luxury charter company, The Moorings, recently introduced the newest yacht in its bareboat sailing charter fleet: the three-cabin, two-head Moorings 3900, designed by noted catamaran experts Morelli & Melvin Design & Engineering. The new sailing cat joins the fleet as part of a recent $65 million investment the company has made towards the purchase of more than 140 new yachts for the 2010-2011 charter season, including the recently introduced Moorings 50.5 monohull.
The luxurious new Moorings 3900, built by Robertson & Caine, is based on the award-winning hull design, interior accommodation plan and helm station of Morelli & Melvin’s private model Leopard 38. The Moorings 3900 features a raised helm station offering 360-degree visibility beneath a hard bimini. It is equipped with cockpit-led sail controls, anchoring system with electric windlass, convenient dinghy davit with electric winch, and generator. Inside, comfort remains a priority with an ergonomic galley-up design and air-conditioning throughout the saloon.
The Moorings 3900 will be available for charter first at The Moorings charter bases in Greece beginning June 2011. It will come to the British Virgin Islands, Bahamas, St. Lucia, and Mexico in late 2011. moorings.com

Reach for the Stars

Sea Tel’s new ST24 antenna features a greater elevation range than most standard antennas, with two axes of stabilization and one axis of polarization. This high elevation range allows you to view TV at higher latitudes. The ST24 features high performance stabilization and satellite tracking. A state-of-the-art, 4.3-inch touch-screen Graphic Antenna Control Panel (GACP) is standard equipment. Compact size, a large viewing area and easily recognizable icons make operating the GACP fun. The ST24 antenna is compatible with most Ku-Band HDTV services worldwide and supports multiple satellite receivers. It is available with automatic skew and it performs automatic satellite switching, capturing numerous satellite signals without changing internal equipment. cobham.com/seatel

Don’t Get Lost Again

Magellan’s new eXplorist 510, 610 and 710 handheld GPS devices allow users to navigate to outdoor destinations worldwide, capture “geotagged” photos along the way, and share their experiences online when they return home. Each model combines high-sensitivity GPS, an intuitive user interface, easy-to-read mapping and accurate navigation. Key features include a three-inch color touchscreen, 3.2 mega-pixel camera with auto-focus, a microphone and speaker to record geo-referenced images, videos, and voice notes. All the eXplorist models are waterproof (IPX-7) and come preloaded with Magellan’s World Edition map, which includes water features as well as a complete road network for the U.S., Canada, Western Europe, and Australia with a realistic shaded relief background. MSRP: $350 – $550. magellangps.com

Grand Banks Flagship

Grand Banks’ 76 Aleutian RP is set to be the largest and most luxurious motoryacht in the company’s model line when it launches this summer.
The 76RP shares its proven Tom Fexas-designed hull and timeless exterior styling with the other yachts in Grand Banks’ raised-pilothouse Aleutian Series, which currently tops out at 72 feet. Its interior layout encompasses four generous staterooms and a much larger saloon, made possible by a longer, more expansive deckhouse. This new model will introduce a contemporary interior design with more European flair than its predecessors.
The large flybridge, generous foredeck, and spacious aft deck dining area all serve to expand the yacht’s alfresco living options. Notably, the vessel’s range will let owners stretch their voyage to nearly 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles), or they can speed to the next port at over 30 knots, depending on engine options. grandbanks.com

Inspired by Nature

Eco-Clad has created an innovative antifouling coating that works on a principle akin to fish skin, which is naturally antifouling. Fish produce a natural film that prevents hard fouling and helps the fish move faster through the water; the new Eco-Clad coating supports the growth of a beneficial natural bio-film with similar properties on your boat’s hull. Produced by Luritek, it provides superior antifouling performance based on this breakthrough “biomimicry” technology.
Eco-Clad’s slick coating has several benefits, including increased speed, improved fuel economy, multi-season performance, and reduced hull cleaning. It’s also environmentally friendly. This revolutionary new coating is available in black, blue, bronze, green and red and can be purchased only from authorized dealers (boatyards), and applied by them as well. ecoclad.com

Small yet Mighty

At 2 Mbps and $0.99 per MB, KVH claims its TracPhone V3 antenna with its trademarked mini-VSAT Broadband is more than four times faster and 1/10th the price of Inmarsat service.
Featuring a diameter of`14.5 inches and weighing just 25 pounds, the TracPhone V3 is one of the smallest broadband antennas on the market. It incorporates a fully stabilized antenna, a powerful ViaSat ArcLight spread spectrum modem, and a sleek antenna control unit, all fully integrated and configured for easy installation. ArcLight spread spectrum technology enables very small antennas to receive satellite transmissions with the speed and reliability of older, 1-meter VSAT antennas that use TDMA transmission schemes. kvh.com

Be Cool, Be Seen

Sea-Dog recently introduced the first in a series of high-style, low-profile LED navigation lights. They each feature a stamped stainless cover over the fully sealed light unit, which is mounted on a heavy-duty, cast stainless steel base. Each individual light measures a mere 2.5 inches in length by 2.25 inches in width by 1 inch in height. Two models are now available: a single-unit, combination bow light, and a pair of port/starboard top-mount side lights. Both sets of lights are USCG approved for two nautical miles visibility. sea-dog.com