Everyone knows the purpose of stabilizers on a boat—to keep it stable. In other words, to prevent the boat from rocking and rolling not only while underway but also at anchor. There’s nothing worse than being at anchor trying to calm your body down from that swaying sensation after being out in the waves and swell all day and the boat can’t sit still.
Marine stabilizers were primarily built and installed on large, ocean-going, commercial vessels, but as boating became more of a recreational pastime, it wasn’t long before stabilizers found their way into the hulls of cruise ships, then superyachts, and now yacht lengths less than 100 feet. It wasn’t just one design that followed that time line, but all of them, from fins to rotating tubes to gyroscopes, and as technologies advanced (and prices dropped), so did the ability for stab10ilizers to adapt to any size boat and for boat owners to have one.
Gyroscopic stabilization was in the forefront of that technology when Elmer Ambrose Sperry Sr. became seasick on an Atlantic voyage in 1898. Sperry built upon the work by Marinus Gerardus van den Bos in 1885 and Hermann Anschütz-Kaempfe’s invention of a usable gyrocompass in 1906 that could accurately find the direction of true (geographical) north no matter the vessel’s motion, weather, or amount of steel surrounding it. Sperry produced a gyrocompass that was easier to manufacture in 1908, but it was Sperry’s seasick voyage that prompted him to figure out a way to use the properties of a gyroscope to counteract the effect of waves on ships. The gyrocompass uses a continuously driven gyroscope to find direction, but alone, a gyroscope, simply put, is a mounted wheel that can spin rapidly about an axis whose orientation is not affected by the tilt of the mount because of the physics behind the conservation of angular momentum. To avoid a physics class, the gyroscope detects the deviation of an object from its desired orientation, so when installed on a boat and the boat rolls, the gyroscope counteracts that roll.
Sperry’s compasses and stabilizers were adopted by the U.S. Navy, the first installation in the World War I transport ship USS Henderson in 1917. It had two 25-ton, 9-foot diameter flywheels and was able to reduce roll to three degrees in rough seas. In 1932, the Italian passenger liner SS Conte di Savoia had three flywheels 13 feet in diameter that weighed 108 tons. It was because of such weight and bulk that gyrostabilization gave way to other forms, but with the continued advancement of technology and manufacturing processes, the gyrostabilizer has made a comeback.
This past February at the Miami International Boat Show, Seakeeper introduced the smallest marine stabilizer ever designed for boats as small as 23 feet—the Seakeeper 1. Compared to the size and weight of the first gyrostabilizers, the Seakeeper 1 measures only 22.9 inches long, 23.6 inches wide, and 15.7 inches high and weighs just 365 pounds.
Shep McKenney, who introduced the Hinckley’s line of Picnic Day boats and JetStick technology, and John Adams, a naval architect who pioneered Maritime Dynamics’ ride control systems, joined forces in 2001 to develop a practical and modern gyrostabilizer system. Their first prototype went into a Viking 43 in 2006, and in 2008, Seakeeper officially formed and launched the M7000 for boats up to 55 feet. By 2013, it had produced 1,000 units and in 2014, Seakeeper launched its first line of five stabilizers and hasn’t looked back.
The Seakeeper 1 has a new look and design that includes a window on top to show off the flywheel capsule and rounded edges for a streamlined, compact unit. Because of its small dimensions, the stabilizer can install beneath a seat. It is completely contained with no part of the sphere hanging below the point of installation for a flush mount. The Seakeeper 1 only uses 12V DC power. The flywheel capsule is vacuum sealed which cuts the power requirements in half, reduces the weight, and enables the flywheel to spin about three times faster (up to 557 miles per hour). In fact, the smaller package has the stabilizer up and running in 15 minutes. The capsule also keeps the flywheel, bearings, and motor isolated from the marine environment.
To keep the inner workings of the stabilizer cool, Seakeeper has patented a cooling system that removes heat from within the enclosure and dissipates it through a glycol/seawater mix. Smart technology gives the stabilizer active control to optimize torque so the Seakeeper automatically and instantaneously reacts to the sea state at all speeds and sea conditions. A passive-controlled gyro needs to shut down in rough conditions and faster speeds.
The Seakeeper 1 has a control keypad on top of the unit, and a new dash display allows control from the helm. All Seakeeper gyrostabilizers eliminate up to 95 percent of boat roll in vessels from 23 feet to 75 feet. More than 12 boat manufacturers have plans to integrate the Seakeeper 1 into their newest models, but don’t let that stop you from fitting your boat with one. A simple leaning post installation usually takes only two days for small boats. The Seakeeper 1 will be available for shipment beginning June 2020 and will retail for $14,900. seakeeper.com
For faster, more comfortable and more economical boating, equip your vessel with the most advanced power options available.
In addition to boat builders, marine equipment manufacturers—from propulsion to stabilization to desalination—utilize boat shows to debut their new power products.
Some are kept under wraps so manufacturers can launch them with great fanfare and buzz at shows like the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. But if you couldn’t make it, here is a showcase of some of the latest power products introduced in 2018.
Propulsion
Yamaha V8 XTO Offshore
The Yamaha V8 XTO Offshore features a first-of-its-kind electric steering system. Rather than the typical electro-hydraulic setup, the integrated steering system directly moves the outboard to deliver secure, precise and responsive steering that is leak free, consumes less power and with its streamlined rigging, reduces maintenance. The 425-hp, 32-valve, 5.6-liter, four-stroke engine utilizes a direct injection powerhead to maximize power and efficiency, and its three-stage fuel pump system incorporates two independent, rpm-activated fuel pumps to create high injection pressures to maximize atomization. The XTO Offshore is compatible with the Helm Master Setpoint suite of functions that includes the ability to adjust heading and position while in StayPoint, FishPoint or DriftPoint modes, as well as troll below standard in-gear troll, speeds with the new Pattern Shift function. It’s also compatible with Yamaha’s CL7 7-inch touchscreen display that monitors vital boat functions and performance. yamahaoutboards.com
MAN Engines
MAN Engines introduces the MAN V12-2000, the only twelve-cylinder V engine with
2,000 horsepower (1,471 kW) to date, and the V8-1300 (956 kW), the strongest for yachts and sportfishing boats. The installation dimensions are compact (5’8” L x 3’9” W x 4’ H for the V8-1300), and the dry weights of 2,380 kg (V12-2000) and 1,880 kg
(V8-1300) contribute to a lower power/weight ratio. Through a series of modifications,
MAN engineers managed to add 100 horsepower compared to the previous, most powerful V12 and V8 engines from their range. An improved injection system, new turbocharger, newly developed cylinder heads, an adjusted cooling system, and a new crankcase ensures high performance throughout the engine’s long service. The engines run quietly and with low fuel consumption. Both engines meet the currently applicable emissions requirements U.S. EPA Tier 3 as well as IMO Tier II. engines.man.eu
Mercury Marine
Mercury Marine unveiled a new V6 3.4-liter outboard engine system earlier this year. In one of the largest, single new-product development programs in Mercury’s 80-year history, the Wisconsin-based company set a new benchmark with the recent introduction of the V8 4.6-liter platform. Available in the 250- and 300-hp Verado and FourStroke models and the 225-300-hp Pro XS and SeaPro models, as well as their racing engines, the new outboards, offer the performance, fuel efficiency and ruggedness demanded by professional anglers, the commercial segment and the avid boater. The Verado is equipped with Adaptive Speed Control for increased throttle response, noise, vibration and heat reduction for an ultra-quiet ride, an advanced midsection that delivers minimal vibration, and is compatible with the Mercury Joystick Piloting system. mercurymarine.com
Seven Marine
Seven Marine introduced its new line of outboards this past spring that takes the aluminum engines to a greater power. The new 527, 577s and 627sv each have supercharged, smallblock V8s with water-cooled stainless headers that deliver powerful acceleration and improved fuel economy. The outboards have a choice of gearcase setups to optimize cruise efficiency and low speed control based on the boat’s speed range—the new CR gearcase incorporates two contra-rotating propellers for boats with top speeds less than 60 mph, and the CT is for boats with top speeds greater than 85 mph. A new Quick-Start technology allows rapid automatic fuel system priming at the turn of a key, and the ZF Marine transmission includes inboard-style wet disc clutches, integrated trolling functionality and smooth, progressive shifting. seven-marine.com
Generators
Phasor Marine
Phasor Marinehas been manufacturing generators for 28 years and introduces a new compact model at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The K3-15.0 kW is powered by a Kubota diesel engine, and the single bearing, direct coupled, brushless generator measures 37.5″L x 24″W x 28″H with a powder-coated aluminum, sound-attenuated enclosure. The unit includes a safety shutdown system, U.S.C.G.- approved fuel lines and Awl-Craft urethane finish. phasormarine.com
Stabilizers
Seaskeeper 2
Seakeeper now has a stabilizer for almost every size boat. Its groundbreaking Seakeeper 3 was a big step to stabilize boats in the 30-foot range, but now, they’ve made one that works on smaller boats. The Seaskeeper 2 became available in April and can eliminate up to 95 percent of boat roll on 27- to 32-foot vessels. The stabilizer weighs 414 pounds and measures 24x25x20 inches. The Seakeeper 2 runs exclusively on 12-volt DC power and because of its size can be installed almost anywhere, including as a leaning post replacement that can be integrated with no major structural modifications. A newly designed touchscreen control panel with an intuitive user interface allows users to capture real-time performance information. seakeeper.com
Refrigeration
Indel Webasto Marine
The Isotherm Clean Touch Stainless Steel Refrigerator by Indel Webasto Marine features a high-tech coating that remains clean to the touch, is scratch and abrasion resistant and provides protection from salt spray, sun, heat, UV light, and condensation in the marine environment. The Cruise 130 Elegance Clean Touch refrigerator is the latest in the line and has a thicker door than traditional refrigerators, so it better retains the cold and provides greater energy efficiency and performance. An innovative internal anchoring system allows flush or proud mounting with or without a flange for a wide range of design options. The new Isotherm Cruise Clean Touch Stainless Steel refrigerators are also available in the 42, 49, 65, and 85 models. indelwebastomarine.com
Water Treatment
Dometic
The new Dometic Spot Zero SZ Mobile Washdown System is a freshwater reverse osmosis syste. It’sdesigned for boats 60 feet and less that don’t have the space for a built-in, onboard system. The compact, portable design removes up to 99 percent of total dissolved solids (TDS) from freshwater dock sources from around the world that have varying water quality characteristics, pressures and temperatures. Dried dissolved solids in water leave water spots, so removing them allows for a spot-free washdown. The Spot Zero system takes water that’s typically a few hundred parts per million (ppm) down to 10-20 ppm. It utilizes the most advanced reverse osmosis technology for pure water from a potable source that can fill the water tank and also lets water-sprayed surfaces dry clean. spotzerowater.com
FCI
For larger boats, the FCI DTS+SOLO is specifically designed to treat dock water and can produce 2,000 or 3,000 gallons per day. The DTS (Dockside Treatment System)+Solo is a stand-alone dockside water purifying unit. It uses a granular activated carbon and sediment filter that produces purified drinking, cooking, and bath water from a dockside source. The system eliminates viruses, bacteria and cysts and removes up to 99 percent of total dissolved solids. The DTS+Solo uses utilizes FCI’s exclusive HMI/PLC touch control system and the DTS+SOLO’s compact, modular design allows it to mount almost anywhere. fciwatermakers.com
Climate Control
Webasto
Open cockpit, sterndrive boats can now have a fully integrated, engine-driven air conditioning with optional heating system. Webasto Thermo & Comfort North America and Volvo Penta of the Americas unveiled the modular Webasto Breeze system that provides ambient cooling and heating. The entire system is 12 VDC and eliminates the need for an auxiliary generator. Webasto Breeze puts out 7,000 BTU of ambient comfort at idle or slow speeds and up to 30,000 BTU at higher engine rpms. It is controlled by a simple dash-mounted unit with three fan speeds and a mode switch. The first U.S. boatbuilder to offer the system is Four Winns, which introduces it as an option on their HD270 model. webasto.com
The new Seakeeper 3 gyro system offers stability previously only available to boats 40 feet and up.
It still surprises me how many people suffer from seasickness in spite of all the medications that are available and technology developments that lessen the rock-and-roll at sea. Several years ago, I met a wealthy yacht owner whose wife was extremely prone to seasickness. To her credit, however, she wasn’t willing to give up on their dream to circumnavigate the globe. Her husband researched extensively and found a yacht that was designed to significantly reduce the rocking motion that causes seasickness. They then went to the North Sea to test a prototype in the most turbulent conditions possible. He found her calmly knitting a scarf during their sea trial, unaffected by the rough seas, and he ordered one built for their extensive cruising itinerary. Several years later they embarked on their circumnavigation together on their new yacht. Not everyone who suffers from seasickness, however, can afford to buy a custom yacht.
The Seakeeper 3 provides stabilization for boats from 30 to 39 feet.
Fortunately, owners of boats 40 feet or larger can retrofit their craft with aftermarket marine stabilization technology by Seakeeper, Inc., providing the boat’s design accommodates the unit. The company first introduced their gyro stabilizing systems in 2008 for boats larger than 40-feet LOA and commercial craft. Owners of boats smaller than 40 feet, however, have had no option other than to leave their seasick-prone family and friends at the dock. That recently changed.
At the 2016 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show last November, Seakeeper revealed the release of its newest and smallest model yet: the Seakeeper 3 designed for boats sized 30 to 39 feet. According to the manufacturer, the Seakeeper 3 reduces up to 95 percent of the motion that contributes to the often-debilitating effects of seasickness, including angst, nausea and weariness. The Seakeeper 3 is also 30 percent lighter and 25 percent smaller than their other models; the new addition gives owners of smaller boats the option to add increased stabilization to their existing craft. Seakeeper offered sea trials during the boat show so that builders, boat owners and the media could experience the stabilizing effects of the Seakeeper 3 firsthand. “We had a customer with us that just commissioned a 34-foot center console build and was on the fence about adding the gyro,” said Joel Kauffman from Xcelerator Boatworks. “Well, before we even finished the sea trial we had definite plans for a Seakeeper gyro on our new build! The customer was in true disbelief at how effective the gyro was in very extreme situations. We were also very impressed with its physical size for ease of installation, low noise level, and operation smoothness. We now have plans for gyros in our next three builds: a 64-foot convertible, 34-foot center console and a 40-foot walkaround. We are all very excited with what Seakeeper has brought to the table in recent years!”
Since many boats in the 30-39′ range do not already have a generator, adapting the product with that in mind was of paramount importance. The Seakeeper 3 runs exclusively on 12-volt DC power, so the refit process is simple and does not require additional power systems or complicated modifications. Installation involves a customized leaning post design and can be completed in only two days. Andrew Semprevivo, Seakeeper Vice President of Sales and Marketing said in a press release that the Seakeeper 3 offers their technology to smaller vessels, which is the next step in the company’s goal to bring stabilization to the boating mainstream. “By offering an optimized solution for boats between 30- and 39-feet long, Seakeeper is offering stabilization solutions to a whole new range of boats for the first time. It truly is our biggest, smallest thing yet.”
The Seakeeper 3 can be ordered now for shipments starting in Spring 2017. MSRP is $26,900.
— By Liz Pasch, Southern Boating Magazine January 2017
Power up! Last month we featured 38 of the must-see new boats making their debut in Fort Lauderdale. In this installment, we present some of the New Equipment from FLIBS we saw at the show.
Bennett Marine BOLT Control
Long a mainstay in the industry, Bennett Marine has been in the forefront of trim tab design and operation since 1959. Now the company offers its new BOLT electric system designed for fast and easy installation. BOLT is designed with a tough, watertight black nylon actuator and complete protection for wires and seals. Each set contains a pair of 12-volt actuators, the tabs and mounting plates, and two 20-foot or custom length harnesses with waterproof connectors. There are six sizes, starting with 12″ x 9″ going up to 24″ x 12″ and are recommended for flats boats, center consoles and RIBs among a long list of others. Three control options are available with rocker switches, rocker control with diagnostics module and auto tab retraction, and a rocker control with all that plus a lighted indicator. bennetttrimtabs.com
Low-Profile MCGXLP60 Titanium Chiller
Dometic Marine offers its mobile-enabled STIIC—for Smart Touch Integrated Intelligence Control—that allows you to connect to six onboard Dometic systems, including reverse osmosis systems, water purification, Eskimo ice machines, premium chillers, refrigeration, and climate control equipment. STIIC allows you to monitor, check system status, change settings, turn on/off, or diagnose a problem even from a remote location using a phone, tablet or computer. Next up is the XTC-ZTC Double Pass Watermaker. This fully automatic, integrated double pass system—to further cleanse the water—can purify onboard water as well as sea, brackish, lake, river, and dockside water. The company’s Titan Chiller, with its new titanium tube condenser, resists corrosion from barnacles and other fouling organisms while being able to withstand the harshness of chemical cleaning. dometic.com/marine
FCI DTS+ SOLO 3000 Dockside Treatment System
FCI’s latest offering is its DTS+ SOLO, for Dockside Treatment System, an innovative product from this worldwide designer and manufacturer of reverse osmosis systems. The DTS+ SOLO is a stand-alone dockside water-purifying unit that allows you to enjoy fresh, purified water for drinking, cooking and bathing dockside, but it also includes a GAC and sediment filter, a feature that can optimize membrane life. According to the company, the DTS+ SOLO eliminates viruses, bacteria and provides bottled quality water. A compact, modular system, it is designed to fit into tight spaces. FCI’s DTS+ SOLO requires no equipment on the dock and comes complete with all pumps and motors. Its low power consumption is complemented by a quiet and vibration-free operation, and it is bulkhead or deck-mountable. fciwatermakers.com
Honda BF 100-Hp Outboard
Honda has been in the forefront of four-stroke engine technology in the U.S. for some 50 years. To boost its mid-range offerings the company now presents its latest, the BF 100-hp outboard. As with all Honda power, the engine contains the entire range of design and technology DNA the manufacturer has become known for in the automobile industry. The result is a high performance, fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly, four-cylinder, 1496 cc engine.It has a full-throttle rpm range between 5500-6300 and tips the scales at 366 pounds. Innovative and advanced design elements include VTEC™ for power, torque and efficiency at any speed; BLAST® for improving hole shot and acceleration; lean burn control for automatic adjustment of the air/fuel mix as per speed and load; programmed electronic fuel injection for precise delivery of fuel/air to each cylinder; and a new high performance gear case.The Honda BF100 has NMEA 2000® certification, is covered by a five year, non-declining, limited factory warranty and is CARB 3-star certified in all 50 states. marine.honda.com
Kohler 200 Kw Big Powerhouse Generator
Kohler has added some new units to its expanding Tier III compliant lineup. First up is the 200EFOZDJ 200-kW system, a big powerhouse generator, designed for superyachts or commercial applications. Also being introduced are the 20EKOZD, 20-kW and 23EKOZD, 23-kW single-and triple-phase generators. All feature Kohler diesel engines as well as the company’s Decision-Maker® 3500 controller (DEC 3500).With the DEC 3500, two or more Kohler generators can easily be paralleled with a single communication wire. For example, with instant and automatic transfer and paralleling, should the first generator’s load be light, the second unit automatically drops off. Conversely, when there is a heavy load on, the second genset will take up the power slack. The controller’s space-saving design eliminates the need for oversized switchgear. Other benefits of the DEC 3500 include built-in load management software, remote monitoring, fully potted circuit boards and sealed connectors, and fewer failure points for an enhanced level of reliability. kohlerpower.com
Man High-Speed-Four Stroke V12-1900 Powerhouse
The big news from MAN is its high-speed, four stroke V12-1900 powerhouse that extends the range of its engines for yachts to 1,397 kW (1,900-hp). The company has completely redesigned the injection, power train, and cooling systems. With its compact size—approximately 7′ l” x 3′ 8″ x 4′ 2″ and weighing in at about 5,200 pounds—both new builds and repower jobs in larger boats and yachts can be accommodated. As with all MAN engines, the V12-1900 is EPA Tier 3 compliant. And if you want to dress up your engine room, optional gilded or chrome-plated cylinder head covers as well as a design cover are available. engines.man.eu
Mercury Marine 6.2L-V8-ECT
Besides Mercury Marine’s introduction of the Verado® 350-horsepower outboard, Mercury Racing Verado 400R outboard, Mercury Racing QC4v 1550 sterndrive, and Mercury 4.5-liter 200-hp/250-hp sterndrives at the 2015 Miami show, the company introduces several new additions in Fort Lauderdale as well.
The Flo-Torq SSR HD is a propeller hub system designed to improve shift noise and vibration on high horsepower
Mercury Marine Flo-Torq SSR HD Propeller Hub
outboards that use a heavy-duty 1.25-inch propeller shaft. According to Mercury, the result is a 25 percent improvement in shift noise and vibration. The company’s GPS-based controlled
Active Trim System (ATS) automatically delivers instant, effortless trimming of boat engines. Tests on a broad range of boats indicate improved engine performance and decreased fuel costs. ATS has five selectable trim profiles, regular manual trim, and is compatible with analog or digital gauges as well as any new Mercury Outboard or MerCruiser engine with SmartCraft. Mercury MerCruiser’s new 6.2-liter V8 300-hp and 350-hp sterndrive engines feature Adaptive Speed Control, Axius Joystick control (optional) and freshwater cooling, anti-corrosion protection, freshwater flush system, easy access maintenance points, and a QR code on the engine’s service label for smartphone users to access “how to” videos online. mercurymarine.com
Phasor 2016 Compact Series Model K3-15.0 Kw
Phasor Marine introduces its new 2016 Compact Series Model K3-15.0 kW marine genset. Phasor Marine employs a fuel-efficient Kubota diesel engine—renowned for its quality and dependability. The freshwater, heat-exchanger cooled marine generator features a cost-saving, low 1800 rpm operating speed for less noise, vibration and wear. Weighing in at 646 pounds (34’5″L x 21’W x 26’H) the K3-15.0 kW will be available with Phasor’s optional powder coated aluminum, sound attenuated enclosure. Standard features include single circuit control system with no printed circuit boards, cast stainless steel exhaust elbow and molded blue silicone water hoses with stainless steel AWAB hose clamps among others. Options range from DC gauge panel with start/stop/preheat/20-foot plug-in wiring harness to 24 volt DC starting system and 50 cycle output and many more. phasormarine.com
Seakeeper Battery-Powered 3DC
Seakeeper, whose long list of gyro stabilization units has made this particular piece of equipment the option boat owners must have, offers its battery-powered 3DC. Designed for boats from 30 to 40 feet in length, the 3DC works without a generator making it an especially perfect fit for the rise in popularity of the center console design. Indeed, to show off its abilities, Seakeeper had one installed in a Contender 35ST, the same boat that will be docked at the nearby Bahia Cabana and available to the public.
The unit is mounted at deck level and positioned underneath the leaning post. During sea trials on a rather nasty day according to Seakeeper, the result was a 94 percent reduction in roll.seakeeper.com
Sea Recovery Aqua Whisper Pro Compact
Along with Sea Recovery’s many other watermakers, including the AW Mini for smaller boats, they will be displaying the new Aqua Whisper Pro unit. Designed for offshore cruising and fishing as well as the charter sector, its manual and touch pad control system allows for easy operations with water production rates from 450 to 1,800 gallons per day, and the AW Pro is upgradable to high-capacity operations.
Features include a one-pressure adjustment to accommodate varying water feed conditions, LCD touch screen, failsafe water diversion valve, shielded terminals and covered high voltage components, and replaceable pre and post filters fit right on the frame. Units are shipped complete and ready to go right from the factory with an entire installation kit and comprehensive operations and maintenance manual. A remote control touch pad is available as are a commercial prefilter, oil water separator, pH neutralizer, and automatic fresh water flush. searecovery.com
Sea Star TFX Optimus360 Joystick
SeaStar Solutions has upped its Optimus Electronic Power Steering System (EPS) to include inboard powerboats from 40 to 70 feet in length. Taking its operational parameters from the company’s proven applications with single, twin, triple, and quad engines, the inboard EPS system offers the inboard boat owner programmable options covering lock-to-lock ratios, steering response and wheel resistance. For example, when moving slowly and more rudder is required, Optimus EPS can be programmed to lower the number of lock-to-lock helm turns to four or five. This reduces the number of times the captain has to turn the wheel to get the rudders positioned properly. Helm resistance can also be lessened so the wheel requires less effort to move. These and other customizable settings make controlling the boat in tight spaces easier and more intuitive. When at cruising speeds, the lock-to-lock turns and steering resistance will automatically increase. Features include an exclusive design for use in salt water, Optimus CANTrak display, a pump control module, and a newly designed SmartCylinder. seastarsolutions.com
Torqeedo Deep Blue
In the electric outboard sector, the offerings from Starnberg, Germany-based Torqeedo cover the gamut from ultralight, lithium battery-powered 1-hp motors for kayaks to 1.5- to 3-hp and 5-hp to 8-hp for various other applications including tenders and sailboats, to its Deep Blue, high-voltage, high-performance lithium-powered models up to 40 and 80 horsepower. (All hp numbers are the electrical equivalent.)Getting a lot of attention are the Deep Blue i1400 and i1800 rpm inboard systems, also in 40- and 80-hp models. Deep Blue includes an onboard, touch screen computer with 14 application views including heading and range, ETA, and battery status, battery charger. Other features consist of an electronic remote throttle, emergency magnetic kill switch, connection box for all electrical and signal cables, and, of course, the high voltage electric motor.torqeedo.com
Volvo Penta 300 V8
On the gasoline sterndrive engine side, Volvo Penta will be showing its next generation of 5.3L V8 engines. Available in 300- and 350-hp, the series is based on GM’s GenV platform and was developed with input from a select group of boatbuilders. Technical features include direct fuel injection, lightweight all-aluminum block, standard closed cooling, variable valve timing, and wideband oxygen sensors—according to Volvo Penta to reduce CO emissions by 95 percent. A host of common parts and service points across the range reduce the number of parts dealers need to stock, thus simplifying service and maintenance.volvopenta.com
Webasto FCF Platinum
Webasto Thermo & Comfort North America is adding two new models to its FCF Classic and BlueCool systems. The FCF Platinum series comes in 12,000 and 16,000 BTU/h ratings in either 115 or 230v. These units feature an improved, slim design making them perfect for retrofitting older and larger systems as well as for boatbuilders. Rugged design, a durable marine-grade stainless steel frame, a larger proprietary condenser for better water flow and improved performance in high-stress conditions typify the outstanding engineering put into the Platinum series. FCF Platinum 12,000 and 16,000 BTU/h models come standard with a digital display and feature low-cost replacement parts. webasto.com
Whale Electric 12V Water Heater
Whale Marine has a rather innovative solution for the small boat owner who would like hot water available on board. The Whale 12V Water Heater is lightweight and compact making it ideal for this kind of use where space is an issue.
The Water Heater connects to a 12V power supply eliminating the need for a generator, inverter or shore power. Rapid heat-up time provides hot water in less than an hour and high-efficiency heat retention of up to 10 hours, so the 12V Water Heater is a quick and easy way to have hot water when you need it. whalepumps.com
Individuals with disabilities stay active on the water through products, boat designs and organizations.
Individuals with disabilities make up the nation’s largest minority group, which is also the only minority group that one can become a part of at any time in their life. In the last two years more than 20 million families in the U.S. have reported at least one family member with a disability, and nearly 40 percent of disabled individuals live in the South. When someone close to you is affected, that statistic becomes very personal and passion to spread awareness ignites. Thankfully, there are many companies, organizations and individuals in the marine industry that strive to enhance on-the-water accessibility for people with varying degrees of physical disability.
Twenty-seven-year-old Rob Murphy—an avid spearfisherman, diver, snowboarder, angler, and wakeboarder based in Palm Beach County, Florida—was spearfishing on a routine dive with five friends, just as he had done dozens of times before, when his life drastically changed. While surfacing, Rob was run over by a 36-foot sportfishing boat that negligently sped towards him despite his proper dive flags and warning yells. The propellers struck his oxygen tank—which saved his life—but his legs were severed just below the knees. Just two months after his accident, the diving and boating community celebrated Rob’s return to the water with custom prosthetic swim legs made by Matthew Bailey of Palm Beach Prosthetic Services, part of Florida O&P Services.
“Since Rob not only wanted to be out on the water on a boat but actively in the water, we had to make sure his dive prosthetics were completely saltwater-resistant, so we removed all the metal we could,” explains Bailey. Rob’s dive legs are exoskeletal, which means all the strength is in the outer shell. They are hollow with holes in the shell to allow water to flow through freely while swimming and ensure they aren’t buoyant. They also allow drainage once back in the boat. “His dive prosthetics are shaped just like regular legs, so they have the same hydrodynamics and allow him to swim normally,” Bailey says. “We ordered special dive ankles and beachcomber feet to allow Rob’s ankles to lock in a 70-degree swimming position or 90-degree walking position, so he can walk in the boat without changing his legs.” Bailey located a fly-fishing shirt company that had an “underwater camouflage” water pattern that he laminated onto the legs with clear resin per Rob’s design request.
Rob not only survived against the odds in a sudden tragic accident, but today—almost six years later—he is thriving both in and out of the water. When not hunting big fish for both recreation and spearfishing tournaments onboard his 31-foot Contender that he custom-designed for spearfishing, you can find him advocating for increased diver safety and building his growing business. “I will always love scuba diving, but I love how natural and pure freediving is—the freedom of diving down on a single breath of air is unlike anything else,” Murphy says. As an active young professional, he continues to inspire both disabled and able-bodied individuals to pursue their passions despite any obstacles. palmbeachprosthetics.com
Dr. Stanley Seidman, a successful psychologist in Fort Lauderdale, had an accident at six years old and when a doctor made a mistake, Stanley’s left arm required amputatation. Despite his physical setback Dr. Seidman began boating in 1974 and he and his wife Carol have cruised on their 63-foot Neptunus Pan-a-sea-a since 2001. When Carol cannot join her husband on the water, however, docking the large vessel single-handedly is a challenge. Around three years ago Dr. Seidman began using Yacht Controller, a battery-operated wireless device that allows him to remotely control his bow thrusters, stern thrusters, anchor, and engines in and out of gear at the press of a button. It sends a unique coded signal between the transmitter and receiver on Pan-a-sea-a to control docking functions anywhere on board. “When I used to dock the boat by myself it was a challenge, but Yacht Controller makes it much easier,” says Dr. Seidman.
The remote has a simplistic design with easy-to-use controls and requires very little adjustment time to become proficient. “I also love my Yacht Controller when we have to stop at bridge openings. I use the remote to effortlessly keep us in the same position,” Dr. Seidman says, who explains how the installation process is very simple for all standard powerboats. yachtcontroller.com
Captain Mick Nealey is an experienced Keys captain and guide who launched Active Disabled Americans and Tranquil Adventures over 20 years ago to keep people with disabilities active and engaged in the water through fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, sightseeing, and other eco adventures in Key Largo. Captain Mick suffered from polio as a two-year-old and sometimes still uses a wheelchair to board his 28-foot pontoon boat via a ramp, which he also uses for guests. “I also modified a Jet Ski lift, called The Swinger that allows someone to simply sit in a chair that swings over the side of the boat and lowers into the water for easy access to swim, snorkel and kayak,” he says. “I’ve modified fishing equipment for people who cannot hold a rod and reel, scuba gear, and special kayaks for individuals with specific needs,” he states. Individuals can charter half-day or whole-day experiences that are catered specifically to their needs. activedisabledamericans.org
Two and half years ago husband-and-wife team Andrew and Karen Grego had the idea to build an attractive, versatile aluminum sportfishing boat. When someone mentioned outfitting it for wounded soldiers, Blue Water Warriors was founded with the purpose of helping veterans experience the ocean’s renewal through deep-sea fishing and diving adventures. Alongside marine engineers and innovative boat designers, Blue Water Warriors has developed and built the completely custom 37-foot Warrior—Hull #1 for the couple’s new line of Vision boats. “Our able-bodied brain would choose to do something one way based on what we know, but the guy who is physically injured might think differently,” says Andrew Grego. “I visited Walter Reed [Medical Center] several times to discuss what specifications on a boat would suit them and we have created a boat that someone in a wheelchair can basically board and run independently.”
When you see her, you recognize that Warrior is a vessel worthy of the brave men who will use her. “The guys we are dealing with are type-A personalities who don’t want to look or feel any more physically handicapped than they already are, so our main directive when designing Warrior was to create the feeling of empowerment and independence,” says Grego. Her features include wheelchair accessibility without a hoist, SeaKeeper gyrostabilizer for maximum stability, specially adapted fighting chairs, harnesses and equipment for fishing, transom and side doors that swing open, specially developed non-skid floor surfaces, on-deck wheelchair locks, storage for prosthetic limbs, and a deck-level head with an elevator lift to accommodate people with and without wheelchairs with no assistance.
One of the most inspiring details of this project is the overwhelming support from the local marine businesses. “The majority of this boat—electronics, labor to build, paint, motors, anchor, etc.—have been donated from local business and services who believe in this organization and its purpose,” Grego explains. “We are putting the logos of each donor on the boat and plan to attend as many boat shows as possible to introduce Warrior.” The couple dreams of growing their line of Vision boats by building one of these custom boats for each of the six polytrauma rehabilitation centers at military base hospitals down the East Coast and over to Texas’ Gulf Coast.
These individuals, products and organizations are just a handful of the many that positively impact the quality of life through boating for the disabled. Organizations and initiatives exist throughout the country that offer a multitude of on-the-water adventures. If you or someone in your life is challenged with a physical disability, research opportunities in your cruising area to ensure everyone can benefit from the refreshing, renewing experience that only the water can bring.
By Christine Carpenter, Southern Boating November 2014
