KonaCats power catamarans are built from 100% composite materials. There is no wood, aluminum or steel is used in the construction of these catamarans. This makes them lighter and more resistant to rot and corrosion. They deliver performance and reliability and thanks to a “quick-build” system can be completed in 6 months or less. Noah Thompson, on the world’s top naval architects, is the designer responsible for KonaCats unique and innovative designs.
Jetsprint boat racing (also known as sprint boat racing) is one of the fastest and most exciting newer forms of boat racing. A crew of two race a small V8 powered jetboat through a series of channels in less than a metre or water, at times reaching speeds of up to 80 mph. The channels are usually about 12 to 15 wide, requiring the driver and navigator to negotiate the course carefully while aiming for maximum speed.
Jetsprinting originated in New Zealand in 1981, where races were held in natural “braided” rivers. Today, jetsprint courses are most often manmade. They typically change direction 25 to 30 times and are traversed in about 60 seconds.
Experience jetsprinting for yourself in this YouTube video (the race starts 45 seconds into the video):
You can learn more about U.S. Jetsprinting on the USSBA website.
A life vest is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you can buy for your boat. The U.S. Coast Guard requires all boats to carry a life vest for each passenger. Instead of just carrying the vests, we recommend that each passenger as well as the pilot of the boat wear a life vest at all times.
Another important piece of safety equipment is a kill switch lanyard, which is worn by the operator of the boat. If the operator falls overboard or loses his or her balance, the boat’s engine will automatically shut off.
See the graphic evidence of the power of speed and waves in this Video of a serious boating accident:
January through April are the prime months for boat shows. Whether you’re planning on purchasing a boat or just want to see what’s new in marine manufacturing, a boat show is the best place to view a variety of different boats and make contact with dealers and manufacturers. Many boat shows also offer classes, seminars, test rides and other special events. Even if you’re not in the market for a vessel, attending boat shows will put you in touch with the boating community.
There are some of the top upcoming boat shows in the U.S.:
The SunCat 46 is the first solar-powered yacht to go into serial production. The 14m yacht was designed by Juan Carlos Espinosa and built by yacht manufacturer Horizon Yachts.
The SunCat 46 combine elegant design and luxury with eco-friendly technology. The catamaran hull provides optimal handling while the yacht’s large flat roof is designed to house solar panels. The panels store power that can be used to power the SunCat as well as onboard appliances.
The SunCat 46 is said to have an unlimited travel range due to its freedom from reliance on fuel. It will be featured at the upcoming boot Dusseldorf boat show.
The world’s largest yacht and water sports trade fair, boot Dusseldorf, will be held in Messe Dusseldorf from January 22-30. The global financial outlook in the marine industry has improved since 2009 and the international marine industry is looking forward to a successful event. According to boot Dusseldorf, there has been an increased demand for exhibition space. More than 1500 exhibitors from 50 countries will be presenting marine goods and services in 17 different halls. Find the boat of your dreams at boot Dusseldorf!
The Cayman 42 Fly, designed by naval architects Nuovolari & Lenard, is an elegant yacht with sophisticated styling inside and out. The exterior includes a variety of safety features, including sunken walkways and a flat bow. The beautifully appointed flydeck is accessed by a molded fiberglass stairway.
The Cayman 42 Fly’s interior boasts a full-appointed kitchen and twin bedroom suites, each equipped with bath and shower rooms. The living area provides additional room for sleeping, with a luxurious leather sofa that converts to a double bed.
Find out more at this website about the Cayman 42 Fly. You can take a virtual tour of the Cayman 42 Fly by viewing the following video:
Winter will be here soon and the cold weather has already started in many areas. If you haven’t winterized your boat, now is the time to think about it. Here are some general tips for preparing your boat for winter:
Remove the prop and lubricate if necessary.
Add fuel stabilizer to full tank, then run engine at idle for a few minutes to distribute the stabilizer through the fuel lines and carburetor.
Change the motor oil and filter.
Add anti-freeze to the cooling system.
Replace worn belts and hoses.
Remove the battery, add water as needed and then charge it and store it in a dry place.
Every boater who travels from one place to another needs to give some thought to marine spare parts. Replacements for parts that are most likely to need replacement should be carried on board whenever possible. In addition to spare parts for engine repair, parts may also be needed for the exhaust, plumbing and electrical systems.
There are a variety of websites that allow boaters to order marine spare parts. Thanks to technology, this can even be done mid-voyage via short wave radio and the parts can be delivered to the nearest port of call. Alphastone is one of the marine supply websites that sells marine spare parts. You can find additional sites by searching for “marine spare parts” using Google or your favorite search engine.
The Bavaria 35 is a Hard Top sports yacht that doubles as a cruising yacht. The hard top provides shelter from the elements and extends the boating season. The Bavaria 35 HT’s cockpit area seats 10. Below deck are 3 compartments, including 2 sleeping areas and a full galley.
The boat’s fine entry works well, carving through chop and swell easily. And when the hull took on the Middle Head chop at speed, everything felt solid. The boat’s hardtop captures engine noise, so she gets a bit loud when the revs are up, but with the extensive engine insulation and sound proofing, we were able to have a conversation without screaming. The Bavaria 35 Sport HT is a tidy and well-considered package. The accommodation is stylish and the areas are brighter because Bavaria now uses lighter, straight-grain Mahogany timbers.
You can see the Bavaria 35 HT in action in this YouTube video:
