Scandvik Lighting’s Surface Mount Dome Lights provide consistent natural white light without hotspots or glare. The high-power LEDs have a three-stage dimming touch switch, are dust-tight and rated for water immersion.
MSRP $72 (rectangular) and $81 (round)
The Intrepid 475 Panacea (47’6″ LOA, 13’8″ beam) is a wave-crushing offshore machine that handles both fishing and cruising with luxury and style. Power choices include either triple or quad outboard engines ranging from 350-hp Yamaha F350s to 627-hp Seven Marine engines. Equipped with four F350s, the 475 Panacea will top out over 60 mph, and with four 627s she runs over 72 mph. The 475 Panacea’s signature transverse-stepped hull is designed to maximize fuel efficiency and stability. Effectively creating two separate hulls, the boat is supported on plane at twice as many points as conventional hulls, providing a smooth, dry ride. Bow rise is minimized, pitching and heeling are reduced and range is significantly increased.
The big Intrepid 475 Panacea weighs approximately 28,000 pounds—depending upon the power package—which flattens waves while being surefooted enough to maintain speed and comfort when other boats are throttling back. The Panacea’s helm features a state-of-the-art platform for electronics, fold-down armrests, footrests, LED lighting, and a convenient cooler. An expansive cockpit features rear seating and fish boxes/storage lockers. An oversized sunpad and wraparound forward seating create a versatile VIP lounge that converts to an alfresco dining area.
The cabin features a roomy head with a shower, vanity and sink, and is well equipped for overnighting with a spacious V-berth. The galley includes hard-surface countertops, a refrigerator, sink, and high-end cabinetry. intrepidboats.com; (954) 922-7544
By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating Magazine July 2016
It’s a beautiful Sunday afternoon in the anchorage and the big game is going to kick off in a few minutes. With this simple how-to guide, watch it on your new TV in the comfort of your cockpit instead of down in your dimly lit cabin.
1. Select a good mounting place. Although every boat’s cockpit is different, take a seat where you’re most comfortable and look around for a place with good visibility. Typical options are on a cabinet, wet bar, or on an arch or bulkhead. In this scenario we’re using an arch. Measure the selected mounting area and determine the maximum width and height for a TV, keeping in mind that the mount site will be the center of the television—most of today’s TVs are wider than they are high. Size does matter but be pragmatic about this. It may help to make a cardboard template of a TV to visualize the actual size.
2. Buy the TV. Once you have the maximum allowable dimensions, head to your favorite electronics store with a tape measure. First, find TVs that will fit, and then pick the brand and features you want. Your best option is a LED television since they are lightweight, thin and bright. If you plan to use an antenna or dockside cable, ensure the TV has a coax (Antenna In) connector. You may also want a built-in DVD player.
3. Buy a mount. Surfaces on a boat are rarely ever square or straight. In reality, most surfaces are curved and sometimes in a complex way—an arch might lean in and have a twist as it curves upward. The solution to arch and bulkhead mounting is to use a full-motion mount such as the Sanus VFS415 (shown). This is important since TVs that are fully retracted against the arch often look straight but when repositioned can appear twisted, and watching a TV when the top edge is running downhill is disconcerting. A full-motion mount solves all of these problems since it can be adjusted to all angles and any position that pleases the eye.
4. Prepare to install. Most mounts attach with two bolts that are included in the package. Throw them out and replace with non-rusting stainless steel bolts. This now begs the point that you need to put nuts on them and you need access, which is gained by two methods. The best option is to place the mount in a location near an access point for wiring already installed, such as a speaker cutout. The second best option is to cut a hole and install a small Beckson plate to provide access. It is possible to use lag bolts, but the larger the TV the more problematic this becomes since your TV can bounce around when under way (see step 6). In either case be mindful of wiring inside when doing any cutting and drilling.
5. Access power and signal source. Power for most TVs will be 110VAC. In this installation power came from a spare AC breaker. Triplex AC wiring was pulled from the AC panel to the TVs location and a GFCI outlet was installed. (If there is any confusion about how to do this, hire a good technician instead. You don’t want to be a statistic with a damaged TV.) The TV’s signal source can come from many places such as the boat’s existing cable TV backbone, satellite TV receivers, and stand alone digital TV antennas. When using the coax backbone, digital on-air signals will be very good quality, and dockside cable TV will be adequate quality. If you’re using satellite TV, most are not high-definition systems. Your best option is to use a HDMI output from the receiver to feed the TV, and the next best resolution is the five-wire component TV connection. You will end up with a good quality signal about equal to 720p resolution.
You will want to place the power and signal source connections as close as practical to the TV. In many cases you can place them behind the TV to hide them but sometimes that’s not possible. In our installation, since this was an aluminum arch filled with wiring and tubing, the outlets were placed below the TV in the coaming. The HDMI cable connection will need to be wrapped with electrical tape on the back of the outlet to keep it from vibrating out. The wiring to the TV gets covered with split loom and neatly tied up and harnessed behind the set.
6. Prepare TV for cruising. The TV should be restrained when not in use or during rough conditions. The best way to do this is with a couple of SS eyes and bungee cord. Your chartplotter is IP67 rated, but the TV isn’t rated IP anything so you it needs protection from the elements. The low cost approach is to use a good quality plastic garbage bag. It’s not attractive, but it’s functional. The better-looking option is a TV cover, which are available online starting at about $25. Also, an Allen wrench will most likely have come with your mount—do NOT lose it. You’ll need it to remove the TV for storage over cold winters or in adverse weather. Finally, kick back and enjoy that game!
Bill Bishop is a Florida based professional marine electronics installer and consultant. He writes extensively on the subject and publishes The Marine Installers Rant.
Southern Boating, February 2015, Bill Bishop
Lumitec’s SeaBlazeX is an underwater light that features twice the useable light of their popular SeaBlaze3. Completely surface mounted, the SeaBlazeX housing is made of bronze alloy with a designed underwater service life of more than 50 years. The circuitry is self-contained and tested to rigorous military standards for EMI, transient voltages, temperature extremes, and mechanical shock and vibration. Available in blue, green, white, and random cross fade. MSRP $429; lumiteclighting.com
Lunasea Lighting introduces two flood lights perfect for use on larger yachts. The 90-watt and 180-watt Lunasea Extreme Beam models are designed to maximize work area light and deliver reliable, efficient performance under the most demanding conditions. The ultra powerful LED lights boast rugged exterior housings machined out of solid marine-grade billet aluminum and hard anodized for corrosion resistance. Compact in size, the lights provide intense bright light. The 90-watt model features a 100-degree beam angle and produces 11,500 lumens; while the 180-watt unit with its 70-degree beam angle doubles that output with 24,000 lumens. The lights have a T4 temperature rating and meet all USCG specifications. MSRP 90/180 watt; $699/$1,399; lunasealighting.com
Southern Exposure, Nathalie Gouillou, February 2016
Electrical connections are vital for the safety of a boat. Hubbell Marine’s 50 Amp Shore Power Cable Set features a thermoset contact carrier that is arc and heat resistant as well as waterproof. Copper crimp barrel terminations provide tighter connections and a longer life. A bullring brings strain relief on the terminals, while a molded-in flex feature controls the angle of cord entry and keeps water out. The cord’s nickel-plated brass shell and contacts help prevent corrosion. A metallic threaded ring provides a watertight seal when mated with the shore power inlet, while the lip protects the plug/receptacle connection from moisture. Some of Hubbell’s 50 amp cords feature two bright LEDs. A green light indicates Power On and red designates Incorrect Wiring at the power source—both are visible even in bright sunlight. MRSP from $450; hubbell-marine.com
By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure, September 2015
OceanLED’s Pro Series HD Allure Lights, Pro 50XFM and 150XFM, boast 3,000 to 6,500 fixture lumens using the latest high-definition LEDs on the market. Exchangeable from inside the hull with its simple Plug & Play system, the lights have sleek aluminum bronze housing and optical precision Grade A electrical components for maximum light output. Offering a smooth, flush profile, the Pro Series HD Allure underwater light allows for mounting in the hull facing downward or out the sides of the boat—65-foot boats and more—providing simple solutions to create unique environments.
MSRP $1,499-$1,999
oceanled.com
Lumishore’s TIX202 Thru-Hull underwater LED light offers exceptional performance. Creating the smallest interchangeable light array, the lights have the brightness of 4,100 fixture lumens. Suitable for transom, bottom or hull-side mounting, the lights have a life expectancy of 50,000+ hours, have marine-grade aluminum bronze housing and are recommended for 25 to 80-foot boats. Available in blue, white or green.
MSRP $879.99
lumishore.com
South Florida-based Yacht Interior Designer Shelley DiCondina has been transforming the décor and design of luxury yachts for more than 20 years, maintaining functionality without sacrificing elegance.
SB: What prompted you to enter the marine world?
SD: I began my career in design about 25 years ago. My life has always been near the ocean, first the Pacific, then the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea. It just made sense to me to be a yacht interior designer. Boating and design have always been part of my life and my parents always told me if you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.
SB: What is new in your line of work this year that mariners should keep an eye out for?
SD: There is so much happening in boating and yacht décor. One of my favorite tasks is changing old halogen lights to LED. There is no right answer as there are so many things to take into consideration when doing a refit and changing the lighting. Another area is that we are changing how we do things in the bedding and soft décor. Everything is less fussy, there are a lot less pillows, and bedding/linens are premium such as gorgeous European and Egyptian cottons with unique embellishments that are meant to be seen and enjoyed—and all are washable. We rarely do traditional bedspreads, now it is all about the linens.
SB: What are some of your signature styles that set you apart from other industry individuals in your field?
SD: My personal style is keeping function on the forefront and making sure it all works and is as comfortable as possible. That means for all day and all night! You won’t see one of our boat pulling up to a marina for guests to get off and spend the night at the hotel. We design for comfort and utilize every inch. Our interior style is soothing and reeks of relaxation. Our clients and their families are busy people, and I want the boat to be the place they unwind, appreciate each other and all they have earned.
SB: Tell me about the design process. What is your favorite and least favorite part?
SD: At Yacht Interiors we have developed our own unique approach to the design process. The first thing we want is for our clients to understand that we are experts in our field. Whether it is space planning, furniture designs, or art and décor; we are the real deal. Yachts are all we do.
For new construction projects, a builder often introduces us to the new client, who is in need of detail drawings and custom pieces. If it is a refit we meet the client in person, on board, review our process, get an idea of the scope of the project and discuss our initial thoughts. When we are selected as the design team we request a deposit to develop a unique interior proposal for that specific yacht. Budget is discussed as well as scheduling exceptions. Whether it is a new construction or a refit I find that the most enjoyable perk of all the hard work is developing life long friendships with clients. Our clients are amazing people that just happen to love the oceans as much as I do.
SB: What would be the smallest project you’ve undertaken? What about the largest?
SD: The smallest project we were asked to do was locate portholes for a California couple that had purchased a yacht under construction after the yard had gone bankrupt. Can you imagine, no one on site working on the boat knew where to put the portholes? We have complete autoCAD capabilities so we looked at the drawings, placed the portholes in about 20 minutes and sent the drawing to the client.
Our typical and favorite project is complete design responsibilities on new construction that also include a turnkey budget. I really enjoy finishing a yacht after a year or two of construction and all that entails—hanging art, making beds and placing the accessories etc. It is so satisfying to design, complete and mini-resort what you know will be a family’s favorite destination for years to come. They will celebrate holidays, birthdays, summer break, get engaged, renew friendships and just enjoy life. What an honor to help create that environment!
SB: Where do you get your inspiration for your projects?
SD: My inspiration comes from many things. I submerge myself in the world of fashion, whether it is clothing, residential or cultural trends—I am always looking to the future and what is happening.
SB: Is there anything else you would like to add?
SD: Yacht Interiors by Shelley is more than just a design studio, we are currently expanding our studio to offer comprehensive outfitting for owners and crew. Our 4,000-square-foot studio will be undergoing a refit to make the yacht outfitting process more accessible for all boaters. Who knows, we may even add a new name to the door. yibs.net
Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure August 2015
LightShip is a portable light that is easily installed with three powerful suction cups that face the solar cell to the sun for a powerful charge. Three bright white LEDs provide enough light for reading, or switch to one single red LED as a night-light. Built-in light sensor switches LightShip off automatically during daylight hours, and the LightShip is made of tough polycarbonate with a clear, molded lens and reflector to maximize LED intensity. For interior use only. MSRP $ 24.99; davisnet.com
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By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure
Before you cross the Gulf Stream to the islands, ensure your boat is well lit. Perko’s powerful, energy-efficient LED light series includes red and green side lights, white masthead light, white stern light, yellow tow light, and white, red, green, and yellow all-around lights. Made with marine-grade black or white polymer, they are UV-, corrosion- and impact-resistant, and pre-wired with 3 feet of 16/3-SO cable for easy installation. With 12/24 VAC or 120-volt DC configurations, these compact, durable navigation lights are 6 inches tall to punch up visibility and Coast Guard-third party certified for 2 to 5 nautical miles. MSRP starting at $660; perko.com
Southern Boating May 2014
