Conceived with performance and efficiency in mind, Midnight Express’ Quintessence43 was named for its groundbreaking five 400-horsepower Mercury racing outboard engines set up with surfacing props and Sport-Master drives. By launching Quintessence43 in June, Midnight Express has extended its engineering acumen, reinventing the performance experience of its five-engine boats—the company introduced its five-engine outboard designs in 2007—with its two-lever control system, the ErgoEngine Control. The design, and having only two levers to maneuver, allows for simplified operations with speeds that can exceed 190 mph (78+ knots). This turnkey solution for advanced five-engine control offers an additional bonus: it takes just one key to start all five engines.
Midnight Express’ deck arrangement.
Midnight Express’ Quintessence43 was named for its groundbreaking five 400-horsepower Mercury racing outboard engines.
Quintessence43 features a true twin-stepped hull, which produces minimal bow rise to get on plane. It’s built with Midnight Express’ exclusive infusion-molded and cored structure across the entire boat, allowing for a lighter, faster, stronger, and fuel-efficient boat. It offers a 100 percent carbon fiber dive door with an integrated ladder, carbon fiber-infused hardtop, and a fully digital control system powered with Garmin touch screens. The entire system is operated with wireless remotes to enable selecting different lighting modes and to turn the battery switches on and off without climbing into tight spaces. Enjoy the full symphony that comes with the stereo system that includes 14 speakers, six subwoofers, and six amps producing 3, 200 watts in the company of family and friends with ample seating for near to 20 people.
Specifications
LOA: 43′
Beam: 12′ 6″
Draft: 20″
Displacement: 16,000 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 565/90 U.S. gals.
Power: Five 400-hp Mercury Verado’s/Sportmaster Gearcases
Top Speed: 78+ knots
Cruising range: 430 nm
MSRP: contact for pricing
Contact:
Midnight Express Powerboats, Inc.
3725 SW 30th Ave.
Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33073
(954) 745-8284 midnightboats.com
By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure, September 2015
SB: What attracted you to work for MarineMax?
RB: The company and the opportunity. MarineMax is a world-class organization. Everyone that works for MarineMax has a great passion for the water and for customer service. Bill McGill, Chairman, President and CEO is an incredible leader who walks the talk. It was also the opportunity of developing their world-class charter business with that same level of passion and service and simultaneously introducing the evolution of true purebred charter powercats to this market and industry with MarineMax Vacations. It was an exciting challenge and I knew it was a perfect fit for my passions and me. It has been less than four years since we launched MarineMax Vacations, and we are now the fastest growing charter company in the world.
SB: What sets your company apart from other competitors in the field? How has it accomplished this and how will it continue to do so?
RB: Our team and our yachts. The entire team of MarineMax and MarineMax Vacations is passionate about providing the world’s best pleasure-boating experience by consistently exceeding the greatest expectations of our customer with the highest level of personal service and product. Aquila Power Cats is the only brand of powerboat we feature in the MarineMax Vacations fleet and was designed by powerboaters for powerboaters. The Aquila power catamarans are true purebred powerboats offering all of the comforts that boaters are used to having on their own personal yachts at home.
We provide services including free Wi-Fi and onboard equipment for living comforts including watermakers on all of our yachts.
SB: How has the company developed and changed over the years?
RB: The boats offered by MarineMax have changed but the MarineMax values have not and that is why MarineMax has survived all of the economic changes. MarineMax is loyal to the customer and the customers are loyal to MarineMax. Bill McGill says that what we offer is all about “changing people’s lives” through boating. With that belief in mind, he took the risk to launch MarineMax Vacations in the B.V.I. to extend the boating season for the MarineMax stores in the northern states by offering an opportunity to go boating on our custom power catamarans in the B.V.I.
SB: Tell us a bit about yourself, your background and what prompted you to enter the marine world?
RB: I am a native of Barranquilla, Colombia, South America, and relocated to the U.S.A. with my family when I was just 12 years old. I graduated from Miami’s Florida International University with a degree in Business and Management of Information Systems. I have been married to my wife, Kelly, for 23 years, and we have four wonderful boating kids ranging in age from 8 to 19.
I was living in Denver, Colorado when I received a call from a recruiter about a career opportunity in Florida with a yacht charter company, The Moorings. It was the middle of winter when I flew from a very cold Denver to a beautiful and warm charter base in the B.V.I. for an interview with the team. They extended me an offer to join them, and as I was overlooking the marina full of yachts, I called my wife and I told her “I can do this. We are moving.” It was an easy decision. I have always loved the water and am an avid fisherman, so it was also a great opportunity that this new job would get us back to warm Florida, too. Two weeks later I was back in Tortola racing in the B.V.I. Spring Regatta with the management group, and I was with that group for more than 12 years.
SB: What do you love most about what you do?
RB: I love “changing people’s lives.” Getting telephone calls and letters from customers telling us about what an incredible experience they had with MarineMax Vacations and hearing how cruising on a MarineMax powercat was their “best vacation ever” is something that just never gets old. It fuels the passion for our team and I. I love going to boat shows and meeting the customers, telling them about our boats and destinations, and then seeing them the following year and hearing all about their vacation as they recap their experience with tremendous smiles on their faces.
SB: We’d love to hear specific examples of how you believe MarineMax has enriched mariners experience on the water.
RB: From a MarineMax point of view, the focus is on making sure people enjoy their time on the water, and that includes numerous free classes offered at all MarineMax stores including the highly popular Women On Water, Kids in Boating, and Captains Orientation, just to name a few.
When you buy a boat from MarineMax, you become part of the family—they are not just selling you a boat. MarineMax is about developing a lifelong relationship with the customer, and our rendezvous, Getaways and group boating deepens the personal relationships and forms lasting bonds with the customers. I also strongly believe that MarineMax Vacations Charters and what we do enriches mariners’ experience by allowing them to explore places they could not do on their own boats.
SB: Are there any destinations or itineraries that you are particularly fond of?
RB: I am a big fan of the B.V.I. and have been cruising there for more than 15 years. The B.V.I. offers something for everyone and can meet everyone’s idea of excitement and relaxation from peaceful rest to energetic excursions. You can set your itinerary based on who is boating with you—I have a different itinerary when I go with friends versus when I go with the family.
Raul Bermudez relaxing aboard his “Little Raskal.”
SB: What would you recommend among the options you offer?
RB: We offer a wide range of Aquila power catamarans in our charter fleet ranging in size from 38 to 48 feet. Boat selection all depends on the size of the party.
I recommend that if someone has never chartered a yacht in the B.V.I. that they begin planning this experience right away. It’s an experience that gets people hooked immediately—we’ve seen it over the past three years as we have brought new power boaters to the destination. Some have just completed their third charter with us and have booked their next one already.
For returning guests, I recommend they look at our Charter Yacht Ownership Program, which allows an owner to enjoy numerous weeks each year while receiving a monthly check from MarineMax to cover the boat loan. MarineMax handles all service, maintenance, fees, and charter activity.
For those who want a purebred powercat at home, I recommend private ownership of Aquila. They are proven ocean-going vessels that can cross oceans or cruise the Great Loop and provide the best platform for living comforts and efficient performance no matter what the water preference.
SB: Do you own a boat? If so what is the make and name? Where do you like to boat?
RB: I currently do not own a boat but have access to large fleet of them. My last boat was a 2008 SeaRay Sundeck 220, which I purchased from MarineMax Clearwater before I was a team member. The boat name was “Little Raskal”—the initials of all of my family members (Raul, Adam, Sarah, Kelly, Alex, and Loren).
SB: What do you like most about being a mariner?
RB: The feeling you get when you are on the water—the freedom, the wind against your face, the smile on my kids’ faces, the special family time, and the memories we have and continue to create. I love the fact that my kids, including my 19-year-old, actually ask when we are going to go on our next MarineMax power catamaran vacation. They love the MarineMax 484 power cat and they love the B.V.I. marinemaxvacations.com
By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure, September 2015
It started off as a bold idea 45 years ago—an in-the-water boat show, one of the first to be held in the Northeast. Today, the brainchild of visionary former naval officer Paul Dodson is among the most celebrated venues for boat enthusiasts in the U.S. and kicks off the east coast boat show season. Scores of vessels, sailboats and powerboats from small crafts to 100 footers along with thousands of products and accessories are due to delight visitors in the City by the Sea.
The Newport International Boat Show (NIBS) is set to take over more than 13 acres of historic Newport Harbor September 17-19. “[We’re looking forward to] delivering a great experience for exhibitors and attendees by bringing in prospective buyers and having even more brands and models of powerboats, sailboats and innovative products on display for all,” says Nancy Piffard director of the Newport Exhibition Group, which owns NIBS.
More than 600 domestic and international exhibitors will showcase and sell their products and services, while never-before-seen boats will make their debut. “All of the ‘Newport For New Product’ entries are a must-see,” says Piffard of the popular program that gives attendees a chance to vote for vessels and marine products being launched this year in the U.S. market between April 1st and September 1st. (International products making their first official appearance in the U.S. at NIBS can also participate.) “Last year people swarmed the docks to see the new Gunboat 55, the 34 Outboard Express from True North and B&G’s ForwardScan sonar as well as dozens of other innovative products. This year we will have even more!”
NIBS is partnering for a second year with Confident Captain/Ocean Pros for yet another exciting “At The Helm” program to provide sailors and powerboaters of all experience levels the opportunity to take to the water. New shore-based courses—iPad Navigation and Boat Systems to be held in the Confident Captain/Safe-Sea Mobile Seamanship Lab at the show site—will add to the existing six classes available for powerboat and sailing. The program includes Powerboat Docking and Maneuvering, Advanced & Twin Engine Powerboat, Become a Power Boater, Advanced Sailboat Handling and Sail Trim, Sailboat Docking and Close Quarters Maneuvering, and Sailboat Crew/First-Mate Skills. Online pre-registration is required.
The Educational Seminar Series is also back this year and set to take place at Forty 1° North Marina Resort located within walking distance of the show. “After a hiatus of offering seminars last year, we have brought back a lineup of exciting speakers and topics,” says Piffard (the seminar schedule was not available at press time). Salty Dawg Rally—a non-profit organization with an emphasis on safety, communication and camaraderie—will host its own Seminar Series on September 16th at the Edward King House. Running from 9AM to 4PM, the seminars will cover topics such as blue water passage preparations, selection and care of emergency equipment, getting to know your steering and pump systems, and more. saltydawgrally.org
NIBS selected Clean Ocean Access as its 2015 charity partner. The organization, which conducts marine debris removal efforts, water quality monitoring and safeguards public access, focuses on the restoration and protection of natural resources. “Clean Ocean Access does such important work eliminating marine debris for the shoreline and improving overall ocean health—a task every boater should embrace,” says Piffard. “This partnership gives us the opportunity to remind the tens of thousands of people who attend our show that if all of us do seemingly small things locally, we can make a big difference globally.”
More than a boat show, NIBS is a destination event. “Newport is the quintessential New England seacoast town with great shops, award-winning restaurants, a vibrant night life, and many historic attractions,” says Piffard before adding, “[it’s] a venue that is unparalleled.” Southern Boating thinks so too—come and see us at the NYC Tent C, booth 60. newportboatshow.com
By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Boating Magazine August 2015
Conceived for fishing and diving, Zurn Yacht Design’s Zurn/NEB 38, expected for a February 2016 launch, is sure to grab the attention of boaters looking for a fast and fun pleasure yacht. Twin Volvo Penta D-6 Diesel engines power the ultra jet drives allowing the Zurn/NEB 38, with a choice of wheel or joystick steering, to comfortably cruise at 36 knots.
Boat production is already underway at New England Boatworks for this 38 footer that’s the ultimate adaptation of the iconic New England design with sleek lines, low-profile open pilot house, spacious cockpit, and stable hull form. The hull and deck are built with an epoxy resin-infused, cored composite construction for a lightweight and strong structure. With a hard-chined, moderate V-planing hull, the boat also comes equipped with Seakeeper’s new 3DC battery-powered gyrostabilizer.
The spacious queen-sized berth of the Zurn/NEB 38.
The pilothouse sports settee and table seating along each side with swiveling Stidd helm seat, while the open cockpit offers great space and includes removable bait wells, fish lockers and storage space for fishing and diving gear. Below deck, the Zurn/NEB 38 boasts a simple and elegant quarters for two with a queen-sized berth, a head and a modest galley with a sink, microwave, and small fridge.
Specifications
LOA: 44′ 2″
Beam: 12′
Draft: 2′- 0″
Displacement: 17,925 pounds
Fuel/Water: 290/51 U.S. gals.
MSRP: contact for pricing
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
Bypass the hassle of drilling or hardware, protect your gear and transport your fishing rods securely in the bed of your pickup truck with the Portarod. Easily installed, the Portarod can be removed just as quickly. Created with truck-owning fishermen in mind, the Portarod is fully adjustable, fits nearly every truck and is available with three, four or five rod holders—individual rod holders are available for a custom fit. The adjustable ratcheting crossbar expands from 53 to 84 inches to fit most make or truck models, doesn’t require drilling and prevents from causing permanent damage to the bed of your truck. The angle of the rods while in transit can be altered to allow access to low ceiling entryways such as garages, tunnels or a restaurant drive-through. Portarod locks can also be added to protect the rods from theft. MSRP starts at $115; portarod.com
The Ocean Master 336 CC is designed for long offshore runs and no-compromise fishing. Ocean Master’s new 336 CC is a power combination of seaworthiness, safety and rugged construction. Her large cockpit and 360-degree fishability are hallmarks of Ocean Master center consoles.
Crafted with 20 layers of hand-laid fiberglass, vinylester resin and oversized stringers glassed into the hull, the 336 CC is rock solid. Equipped with a pair of Evinrude E-TEC G2TM 300-hp engines—a flaring V-hull form softens the aft for better planing—the 336 is a performer that’s sure to inspire boat owners looking for a safe ride and great fishing platform controllable in a wide range of sea conditions.
In recent testing the 336 CC’s top speed was 54 mph, clocking in at 4.7 seconds to plane. It also sipped fuel displaying 2.11 mpg for 570 miles at 26.5 mph. Each semi-custom 336 is built specifically for its owner, allowing buyers to have direct input into the building of their boat.
Specifications
LOA: 33’5″
Beam: 10’3″
Draft: 18″
Weight without engine: 10,000 pounds
Fuel/Water: 300 U.S. gals.
MSRP: from $200,000
Nestled in a secluded harbor only minutes away from the Gulf of Mexico and ICW seats the Orange Beach Marina, a full-service family-owned facility run by the Long family for more than three decades. Severely beat down by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the marina underwent a complete overhaul from 2005 to 2008 and is noted in the Gulf Coast for being among the only marinas in a fully protected harbor that offers covered slips capable of accommodating large fishing vessels.
Onsite boat and yacht sales, engine repair, fishing charters, water sports, and a ship’s store make this facility truly unique. Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina—its one-of-a-kind restaurant was completed in 2013 and commended as one of the top 100 eateries in the South—houses two kitchens with distinct concepts and menus. Fisher’s Upstairs and Fisher’s Dockside are sure to satisfy food lovers.
Lose yourself among the world’s best sport fishing areas within minutes of the marina, where snapper, ling, mackerel, grouper, and wahoo gather, while a southerly course puts you in one of the hottest bill fishing areas in the country. And if you’re into competition, look up some the many tournaments hosted by the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club (MBGFC) mbgfc.org/tournaments/htm
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Want to stay ashore? Discover some of the historic forts that date back to the Civil War era or indulge in a day of golf at one of eight premier golf courses within minutes from the marina. A short car ride will also take you to the cradle of the naval aviation at the Naval Air Station Pensacola, home of the Blue Angels, and the National Naval Aviation Museum.
Amenities
• 180 covered/open stalls
• Six-bay fuel dock
• Dockage to 130′
• Laundry center
• Free Wi-Fi
• Free cable TV
• 24-hour security
• Private showers and restrooms
• Covered grilling and picnic areas
• Pet friendly
• Upscale dock store
Contact:
Orange Beach Marina
27075 Marina Road
Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 981-4207 orangebeachmarina.com
