NEW - EM230 Basemount COMPACT for 5-7 metre RIBS and small fast fishing boats with factory fitted approved all round light. Fits A frame or on to cabin roof and solves the problem where to fit the radar reflector and the light - simply fit and wire up!

Also NEW OPTIONAL EXTRA - BASEMOUNT QD Adapter plates - Fit and remove in seconds! Enables the Extreme or Compact basemounts to be quickly removed from the cabin roof or A frame to avoid damage by trees or low objects when trailering or restrictive barn or garage entrances. Made from robust 3mm stainless plate with welded 12mm stainless fittings. 150mm diameter with 4 x 6mm fixings @ 80 mm centres Weight 0.9kg

see www.echomax.co.uk for all Echomax Passive - Active RTE.

Aquapac’s Waterproof Case for iPad means you can safely use your iPad/iPad2 in the pool, in the bath or even out at sea. Tough, welded TPU material means no stitching to leak, so your iPad really is protected, even underwater. Add to this the Aquaclip® (our patented, ultra-secure rustproof seal) which opens and closes with a simple twist of three little levers, and you get a case which is guaranteed to 15ft depth.

The Waterproof Case for iPad has a 3.5mm nickel-plated headphone jack, so you can play your music as loud as you want or watch movies without annoying others by the pool.

The case has windows to allow video with both cameras, so you can FaceTime blog in the rain, or film the kids snorkeling for the first time.

Features include:

• 3.5mm nickel-plated headphone socket

• The Multi-Touch screen on your iPad works normally through the case (NB: capacitive screens will NOT work UNDER water – the water makes it like you’re using gloves)

• Wi-Fi and 3G work normally through the case

• LENZFLEX™ optically-clear front window

• LENZFLEX™ camera window on the back

• Adjustable shoulder strap and desiccant sachets included.

SRP: £45

Organisers of the British Leisure Show have unveiled plans for an inspiring FREE to attend Boat & Leisure Festival in Cowes, Isle of Wight, over the Jubilee bank holiday on Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th June 2012.

The Festival is designed to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and will feature live music, hospitality and a great display of British boats and outdoor leisure activities.

Internationally recognised as the home of world yachting, Cowes has been selected to host the Boat and Leisure Festival for a two-day extravaganza over the extended Jubilee bank holiday period.

James Brooke, Festival Director, commented, "We’re really excited to be celebrating such an historic occasion and delighted to be working closely with the Cowes community to make this memorable family event a great success.”

"We have previously organised major events at the Royal Windsor Racecourse and Earls Court and, for me, Cowes has to be the venue for such an occasion, given its historic links with our monarchy. It’s a perfect venue for an overtly British-themed event, and we’re proud that Cowes will be one of the most exciting places in the country to be celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee."

James Brooke is keen to get the marine industry to play its part adding, "This new event provides an exciting opportunity to generate additional revenue for companies trading within the marine industry as well as to play a part in making history. The Festival is being held at the home of world yachting, at the start of the Summer and the boating season."

For information about how to participate as a Festival exhibitor, visit the Festival website www.cowesfest.com or send your details in an email to: JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING .

Varied attractions and travel deals

Amongst the attractions for visitors will be a display of some of the finest British built yachts and motorboats, an exclusive preview of teams racing in the 2013 Cowes to Monte-Carlo Powerboat Race, a parade of fashion, and a range of outdoor leisure activities and accessories for families to see, try and buy.

Berthing will be available in Cowes Yacht Haven marina for visiting yachts, and visitors will benefit from special mainland ferry rates from Red Funnel, with vehicle crossings bookable via the Festival website: http://www.cowesfest.com .

Organisers will be promoting the Festival at http://www.cowesfest.com , through Red Funnel and other Festival partners as well as using social media.

The Boat & Leisure Festival takes place on Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th June 2012 at Cowes Yacht Haven, Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BD.

http://www.cowesfest.com

Gill has introduced a women’s specific drysuit design in order to offer the female consumer a much improved fit. The key design feature to this garment is that the zip placement is on the back. This means there is no cumbersome zip over the chest giving a more flattering fit. The women’s style also features an elasticated waist adjustment to achieve your preferred fit. Internally there is a female friendly mono brace with a side release buckle feature for ease and comfort.

Both the men’s and junior drysuits have received a design update and are all made of a waterproof and breathable 5Dot™, 3 layer fabric providing the perfect blend of comfort and durability. Additional protection is offered to the seat and knees with reinforced panels. A robust Dynat® waterproof zipper is used on the outer zip, to prevent water ingress. Additional features include ankle covers over the top of the latex seals and pre marked glideskin collar and cuff seals for a customised fit. Essential items can be stored in the low profile thigh cargo pocket and internal security pocket with zip closure.

The Skiff Racer buoyancy aid has been added to Gill’s offering of buoyancy aids in order to provide a high performance style suitable for keel boat and dinghy racing. The Skiff Racer buoyancy aid has been engineered to offer a low profile high-fit, making it perfect for the race environment. Foam side panels and zippers have been eliminated to allow for unrestricted arm movement and aid agility around the boat. The high fit design frees up the lower abdominal area so harnesses can be worn comfortably.

The shoulder length and sides can be adjusted to ensure a secure fit. Neoprene padding to the shoulders offers additional comfort. Reflective piping features across the back as a safety precaution for low light visibility. Further to these features is a front zippered pocket with mesh drainage is well positioned for ease of access to essential items when racing.

Specifications:

Skiff Racer Buoyancy Aids - Colour: Graphite/Dark Grey -Sizes: S-XL - Price: £55.00 including VAT

Palmer Johnson, Westport, San Lorenzo and Feadship among leading exhibitors confirmed for 2012 show

Singapore; 20 February 2012: Organisers of the Singapore Yacht Show are delighted that more and more heavyweight international yachting brands including Palmer Johnson, Feadship, Westport and San Lorenzo will be heading to Singapore to participate in this year’s show – Asia’s top dedicated superyacht and luxury boat show. These industry stalwarts have produced some of the most spectacular luxury superyachts in the world, including the motor yachts Helix (48m) and Onyx (43m) all of which will be making their massive presence felt when they line up with some 30 other yachts and boats on the dock at ONE°15 Marina Club on April 27th.

A new addition in the world super yachting calendar, the Singapore Yacht Show 2012 is expected to attract some 6,000 high society guests from around Asia looking to experience all that Singapore has to offer, at the same time as connecting with the very best-known yacht and boat builders, brokers, dealers, designers and suppliers in the industry.  Burgess, Ocean Independence, Simpson Marine and Northrop & Johnson are all world-renowned yacht brokers and charter brokers who are there to support the new local industry in this exciting early phase of its development.

Andy Treadwell, Managing Director of Informa Yacht Group explains, “The show is obviously much bigger this year, and many of Asia’s wealthiest entrepreneurs, business people and movers and shakers will be converging on Singapore to see some of the biggest names in yacht building and brokerage. These guys are coming half way round the world to present some very well-known and eagerly anticipated boats which are making their Asian débuts at the Singapore Yacht Show.”

He added, “We are extremely proud to host industry leaders such as these, who are keen to introduce their yachts and yacht services to the new market in this region. We provide the perfect platform, in the perfect place, for them to launch their businesses in Asia. Singapore is now becoming known as the Switzerland of the East, as well as the Monaco of the East, and this is for a very good reason!  Private banking, casinos, night life and sport - that’s why we are getting such a great response when we and our partners extend a personal invitation to a very select audience to attend the Singapore Yacht Show!”

Palmer Johnson, the world famous builder of ultra-sleek luxury high performance power boats, are participating in the Singapore Yacht Show for the 2nd year running, confirming their commitment to growing their business in the region. Russell Morris, P-J’s Sales Director, explains, ‘We see it as a long-term strategy to participate in what we believe will become the key industry event in the natural hub for the whole region. We regard our role here partly as “educational”, in the sense that we are introducing the Palmer Johnson brand into a new market, but also introducing the many wealthy people in the region who are not familiar with yachting to a lifestyle that is perfectly suited to private entertaining for family and business associates.’

New to the Singapore Yacht Show this year is Burgess, one of the biggest and most prestigious yacht brokers in the world. Asia is fast establishing itself as a new yachting playground for the elite, and brands like Burgess now want to explore the most credible and valuable networking opportunities for forging lasting relationships with this exclusive but fast-expanding community. The Singapore Yacht Show, after only one edition, has already laid claim to a reputation of providing the best platform in the natural hub for the yachting industry, and the most appreciative regional audience with a real interest in yachting and an enormous propensity to consume.

The 4th Asia Pacific Superyacht Conference runs from 25-26 April, immediately prior to the Singapore Yacht Show, and is a highly important event for the global superyacht industry. It is the only platform in the region to bring together local industry professionals with global players from the West, to discuss the key issues and opportunities in Asia.

The conference programme is an energetic forum to listen and learn about from the pitfalls and the potential for new business here: yacht services; designing yachts to appeal to Asian tastes and lifestyle; how Western companies need to market themselves where there is little familiarity with the yachting lifestyle; and local rules, regulations, and obstacles. International industry players meet local service providers and government rule-makers, with the aim of promoting and developing the region for the superyacht industry. Guest speakers and a confirmed schedule of events will be available soon.

The Asia Pacific Superyacht Conference and the Singapore Yacht Show are important events striving to promote Asia as a yachting destination, grow the industry locally to the advantage of the local economy, and provide a quality showcase of luxury yachts to a select audience from around the region.

Helsinki-based Navis Engineering Oy has passed an important milestone in the yacht sector, after receiving MED-B type approval for its latest generation type AP4000 autopilot from classification society Det Norske Veritas (DNV).

Issued for a five-year period, the MED-B certificate provides assurance that the product complies with all the relevant international standards imposed on marine equipment of this type. The approval covers equipment delivery to newbuildings or existing vessels for retrofit.

Since its recent launch, uptake for the AP4000 has been rapid, with notable contracts including the 67m ketch Hetairos-II. This is the largest carbon-fibre sailing yacht in the world, and was completed at Baltic Shipyards last year.

The AP3000, the AP4000’s predecessor, has an extensive reference list and can be found on the bridges of several distinguished yachts. These include the 62m sailing yacht Athos of London (built at Holland Yachtbouw shipyard), the 70m mega-yacht Numptia (built at Rossi Navi Yachts), the 61m mega-yacht Diamonds are Forever (Azimut-Benetti S.p.A), the 53.7m mega-yacht Prima (Palumbo shipyard) and the 50m motor yacht Papi du Papi (ISA Yachts),  among others.

The AP4000’s IP67 level protection of the front panel and high-contrast anti-glare colour display are in line with its contemporary, while the unit also benefits from additional functionality. One of its new features is the fully self-adjusting Auto Tune algorithm that facilitates the adaption of the autopilot’s performance to the hydrodynamic parameters of any yacht of its displacement and dimensions.

The AP4000 is one of the few autopilots on the market that has a configuration for two independent rudders. In addition, it is designed to allow for an interface with bow thrusters, making it possible to keep the yacht’s heading at low speeds.

‘Barracuda’, the modern, low-priced Dutch top quality weekend cruiser.

The ‘Barracuda’, a completely new, modern weekend motor cruiser as a unique concept from Barracuda Yachts, is making its world debut at the HISWA Amsterdam Boat Show 2012 on stand number 07.402.

The HISWA Amsterdam Boat Show is taking place from 6 to 11 March 2012 at the Amsterdam RAI.

Barracuda Yachts will be presenting its completely new, modern and delightfully contoured polyester ‘runabout’ ‘Barracuda’ to the press and public for the first time at the HISWA Amsterdam Boat Show 2012.

The modern ‘Barracuda’ weekend motor cruiser for eight people is the final culmination of an innovative and completely new concept from Barracuda Yachts.

Passengers enjoy comfortable seating in the spacious, four metre-long open self-draining cockpit. The cabin under the foredeck has sleeping accommodation for two persons and a chemical toilet.

The new Dutch ‘Barracuda’ weekend cruiser is a one hundred percent Dutch innovation and a completely Dutch product.

Construction by this top notch Dutch builder is of world-famous Dutch top quality.

This unique innovative Dutch development is the combination of two concepts never presented in the Dutch yacht building industry before.

The ‘affordable sailing enjoyment’ concept

The ‘affordable sailing enjoyment’ concept means the modern, contoured polyester runabout ‘Barracuda’ has an unprecedented competitively low price.

For € 39,500.-- ‘modern affordable sailing enjoyment’ is already offered by the standard entry model.

The ‘variable size motor’ concept

The ‘Barracuda’ weekend cruiser also includes the ‘variable size motor’ concept. The ‘Barracuda’ has been specially designed to flexibly and simply grow its engine power.

Under the gas spring operated and locking transom hatch the entry model has an electrically starting 10 hp Yamaha with 25-litre petrol tank, ingeniously fitted and camouflaged in the special engine well.

The high stability and excellent sailing characteristics at different speeds and with different engine capacities enables the ‘variable size motor’ concept to fully come into its own. With its sophisticated and extensively trialled sailing characteristics the ‘Barracuda’ can be fitted with 10 hp to 115 hp outboard motors.

The unique combination of the two special concepts gives the buyer a high degree of flexibility and stability in vessel value.

Entry model for € 39,500.--

Using a trailer with the ‘Barracuda’ is simplicity itself. It is an open polyester motorboat, 7.5 metres-long in total including swimming platform and 2.44 metre beam. The forecabin contains two berths, a chemical toilet and a spacious, open self-draining cockpit four metres-long. The outboard engine is mounted in a well which is hidden by a hatch in the transom. This hatch is opened and closed using gas springs. The fully equipped entry model is supplied with a 10 hp electrically starting Yamaha long shaft motor. The draught is then approximately 65 centimetres.

Obvious advantages and value retention

The major advantages of the unique combination of the two special concepts are obvious. The prototype with a hull weight of 1,050 kilograms has been extensively trialled for sailing with long shaft outboards from 10 hp to 115 hp. The boat proved to be perfectly suitable for all these and intermediate capacities.

The top speeds of the 7.5-metre ‘Barracuda’ with the different capacities are:

• with 10 hp the top speed is 14 kph

• with 40 hp the top speed is 25 kph

• with 70 hp the top speed is 42 kph

• with 115 hp the top speed is 55 kph.

With this unique flexibility in choosing and increasing the motor power the value of the basic vessel is retained, often better than with a vessel with fixed motor.

There are also many optional extras including an Esthec deck.

The lockable transom hatch means the ‘Barracuda’ is protected against motor theft.

The ‘Barracuda’ from Barracuda Yachts can be viewed at the HISWA Amsterdam Boat Show, stand number 07.402 (Amstelhal, Hall 7) immediately next to the route to the port.

Technical information on the standard design ‘Barracuda’ weekend cruiser:

• Overall length 7.5 metres, including swimming platform

• beam 2.44 metres

• draught: ± 65 centimetres with 10 hp outboard motor

• hull weight 1,050 kilograms

• motor: Yamaha electrically starting long shaft 10 hp outboard motor

• petrol tank 25 litres

• morse controls

• steering wheel including control cable ready-to-sail

• maximum number of persons: 8

• 3 x RAL colours

• antislip on deck, cockpit and steps

• stainless steel hinges and locks

• exterior: foredeck with 8 mm Marlon windows in window seal and frame of stainless steel mullions with stainless steel corner construction

• tarpaulin over the cockpit

• 2 fixed front seats including seat cushions, back cushions and stainless steel brackets, one round sofa with seat cushions

• open self-draining cockpit, four metres long, with 6 seats in the open cockpit

• aft deck with transom hatch opened and locked by gas springs

• well for outboard motor under transom hatch

• swimming platform finished with a rounded stainless steel strip

• navigation lighting

• 6 folding stainless steel cleats

• 2 mooring ropes

• 2 fenders

• interior:

forecabin, 2 berths with mattresses

chemical toilet

• antifouling

• construction material: glass fibre reinforced polyester, hull 10 mm, other parts 7 mm, laminated bulkhead 18 mm waterproof aucoumea panelling 150 mm tall: transom, keelson and longitudinal beams. Transom 4 cm solid aucoumea, decking in sandwich construction, balsa wood and/or foam.

• trailer: the boat can be placed on a trailer

• development and design: Jacco Klein, Enkhuizen

• construction: Adel Polyester, Genemuiden

The British Marine Federation’s South West region brought together over 60 key representatives from industry, marine and local businesses at its Conference and AGM, held at South Devon College, in Paignton on 10th February.  The event was sponsored by Hayes Parsons, Bartons Solicitors, and Boatshed Dartmouth.

The South West has seen plenty of activity during 2012 with a 15% increase in new members in 2011, the launch of a new website, and a successful ‘Try a Boat’ event held in May.  The region’s growth and activities were congratulated by the British Marine Federation’s Chairman Alan Morgan, who also spoke about the BMF‘s activities nationally and internationally.

The AGM was followed by the conference, which included round table discussion on key business sectors, enabling delegates to gain useful and practical information and support for their businesses.  Subjects included the superyacht sector, renewables, export, HR recruitment and retention, waste management, legal and business support, sources of finance, and boat registration.

Each discussion group was hosted by a facilitator and a specialist, including Stephen Reynolds from Barclays Corporate, Neil Stallard from Alpha Logic Waste Management, Nick Kirsop-Taylor from REGEN SW, Andrew Storey from Credit Protection Association, Tom Reed from Scanstrut, and Tom Chant from BMF Superyacht UK.

Three 45 minute sessions enabled delegates to move between tables, ensuring plenty of lively discussions and useful networking opportunities.  Ben Sharp, from Devon-based electronics manufacturer Sharp & Tappin Technology Ltd said; “The day was well planned at an excellent venue and proved to be a very valuable networking opportunity. I have already attended one follow up meeting with one of the companies I met there with a positive outcome.

The discussion topics were relevant to current business issues and the specialists on the tables were very helpful. It was an excellent opportunity to meet fellow BMF members and it also re reinforced that we should use the BMF services as a resource more frequently.”

Following the conference, there was a short presentation by marine apprentices from South Devon College, and delegates had the opportunity to tour the college’s boat building and repair facilities at Noss.  BMF South West’s Chairman Will Blagdon said; “This was the second year that we have held this style of conference with round table discussions and networking at our AGM, and it has again proved very successful.  Attendees had the benefit of hearing about the BMF’s activities and support for its members from the very top, and could also take the opportunity to raise the pertinent questions and issues facing them in their businesses.  I’d like to thank all the experts for their time and support, our sponsors, and our secretary Paul Singer who organised the majority of this event.”

The next key event being organised by BMF South West, in conjunction with South Devon Marine, is the On the Water event, taking place on 2nd and 3rd June at the South Embankment, Dartmouth.

The high performance of a hydrofoil doesn't have to come at a high price.  Helping create safer, more enjoyable times on the water, Davis Instruments offers its popular yet economical Doel-Fin stabilizer.  It maximizes lift without creating excessive drag, helping boats plane quickly.  The efficient design can reduce fuel consumption by up to 30%.

Created by an aerospace engineer, the Doel-Fin boasts a unique two-piece design and a true foil shape.  Each high-strength plastic fin flexes independently to enhance stability and discourage propeller cavitation.  It works on all outboards and outdrives with a cavitation plate and installs in as little as 15 minutes.

Boat owners can experience better visibility, and safety, as the Doel-Fin decreases stern suction and bow rise.  It also steadies the boat during turns and improves control, especially in rough water.

Performance enhancements include faster hole shots and higher top-end speeds.  Doel-Fin also creates consistent planing at lower speeds.  This makes watersports more enjoyable for those at the end of the tow rope, with fewer throttle adjustments for those at the wheel.

Contact Davis Instruments, 3465 Diablo Ave., Hayward, CA  94545  USA.  +1-510-732-9229; Fax: +1-510-732-9188.  In Europe: Davis Marine Europe, Uilenkade 12, 3336 LP Zwijndrecht, The Netherlands.  +31 (0)78 6194316; Fax: +31 (0)78 6192689.   JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING ; www.davisnet.com.

· Garmin® Introduces GHP™ 20 Steer-by-Wire Autopilot for Teleflex Marine® Optimus 360 Systems

http://garmin.blogs.com/ukpr/2012/02/garmin-introduces-ghp-20-steer-by-wire-autopilot-for-teleflex-marine-optimus-360-systems.html

- This is an auto pilot product for both power and sail boats with a Teleflex Marine Optimus 360 steer-by-wire autopilot system.

- Both outboards can work independently from each other

- The Garmin autopilot can control the boat though the Teleflex system when moving

- Integrated shallow drive technology

- The pilot will automatically engage / disengage

- When NMEA integrated the autopilot will follow g2 vision auto guidance routes

- The autopilot picks up tachometer information through the Optimus system for optimal performance.

· Buy with confidence: Garmin® offers new chart guarantee for pre-programmed BlueChart® g2 and BlueChart g2 Vision® cards

http://garmin.blogs.com/ukpr/2012/02/buy-with-confidence-garmin-offers-new-chart-guarantee-for-pre-programmed-bluechart-g2-and-bluechart-.html

- Now available via the website.

- Entitles customers who have recently purchased a new preprogrammed BlueChart g2 or BlueChart g2 Vision microSD/SD card to one FREE update to the newest    version of charts. *(This offer is limited to one free update per card. The New Chart Guarantee is valid within 6 months of purchase).

· Garmin® Debuts BlueChart® Mobile Marine App for iPad

http://garmin.blogs.com/ukpr/2012/02/garmin-debuts-bluechart-mobile-marine-app-for-ipad.html

- Plan and create routes, view shaded depth contours and inter-tidal zones with spot soundings.

- Uses ActiveCaptain which provides real-time content for marine data, reviews, local knowledge, anchorages and hazards generated by mariners for mariners.

- With an internet connection, BlueChart Mobile helps mariners keep track of weather conditions

- Once on board, users can wirelessly transfer routes, waypoints and tracks created with BlueChart Mobile to a networked Garmin chartpotter.

· Garmin® Introduces New Line of Thermal-Imaging and Low-Light Marine Cameras

http://garmin.blogs.com/ukpr/2012/02/garmin-introduces-new-line-of-thermal-imaging-and-low-light-marine-cameras.html

- GCL 20, Garmin’s low light camera, is especially useful at dawn, dusk and in light fog.

- The high-resolution GCT 30 and low-resolution GCT 20, aid in navigating in total darkness

- GCT 30, GCT 20 or GCL 20 will automatically lock onto a point and follow it.

State-of-the-art sonar module offers anglers phenomenal fish detection, clarity, and depth performance.

Miami International Boat Show, 16th – 20th February, Booth A100

Raymarine announced the launch of its new CP450C ClearPulse™ CHIRP sonar, a cutting edge black box fishfinder option for the all new Raymarine e-Series and c-Series line of multifunction displays.

The CP450C with ClearPulse™ CHIRP technology goes beyond high definition and offers up to 10 times the resolution of traditional fishfinders. ClearPulse™ CHIRP technology takes advantage of a wide spectrum of sonar signals to deliver amazing detail and accuracy. The CP450C also features TruZoom™ mode for a precise and magnified view of fish targets, bottom structure, and baitfish without any loss of resolution seen with traditional fishfinder zoom mode.

Shallow water or offshore the CP450C can operate in a wide range of sonar frequencies simultaneously, using two independent CHIRP sonar transceivers. The CP450C detects fish and other underwater targets using any discreet frequency from 25 to 250 kHz. CP450C also offers mid-band frequency support in the 75 to 130 kHz range. This means no matter what they fish for, no matter where they hide, CP450C intelligently detects and targets the fish fishermen want to catch!

The CP450C also features an ultra-fast 80 ping-per-second update rate, providing anglers with enhanced target detail in shallow water and when moving at high speeds. Unlike traditional high-speed scrolling, the CP450C actually images the bottom at up to twice the speed of typical fishfinders, providing real time information of water depth and bottom conditions when you need it most.

CP450C’s ClearPulse™ CHIRP technology excels in the most challenging conditions where other sonars fail. ClearPulse™ CHIRP technology sees right through dense schools of baitfish, marking individual targets while simultaneously identifying larger game fish. CP450C also works well in soft sea bed conditions where holding bottom is difficult for traditional fishfinders. The CP450C is designed to operate in depths ranging between two and 10,000 feet.

The CP450C ClearPulse™ CHIRP Sonar Module is compatible with Raymarine’s all new 3rd generation c-Series and e- Series multifunction displays and connects using SeaTalkhs networking. Raymarine is also offering a wide range of Airmar CHIRP compatible depth transducers to complete the CP450C system.

CP450C sonar RRP £1,245/ €1,495 excluding VAT

New PC app lets Raymarine owners sync waypoints and routes with their multifunction display and online.

Miami International Boat Show, 16th – 20th February, Booth A100

Raymarine announced the introduction of Voyage Planner PC software, a powerful, easy-to-use, route planning and data management software solution for Raymarine multifunction displays.

Voyage Planner allows Raymarine owners to effortlessly manage waypoints and routes between their vessel’s multifunction display and their personal computer. Boaters can plan at home or bring their PC onboard and import and export waypoints and routes in real time, using the built-in Wi-Fi capability of Raymarine’s new c-Series and e-Series multifunction displays.

Alternatively, waypoint and route plans can sync through SeaTalkhs (Ethernet) or with flash memory cards. Voyage Planner supports native Raymarine waypoint formats and also offers GPX and KMZ waypoint file format support, giving boaters the flexibility of importing waypoint locations from other brands of marine electronics.

Voyage Planner is very flexible and supports many different types of electronic navigation charts, topographic charts, weather overlays, and custom fishing data. Raymarine owners will appreciate Voyage Planner’s standard support for Navionics vector charts. Voyage Planner supports Navionics, Gold, Platinum+ and HotMaps charts. Owners of Raymarine multifunction displays can download a free Navionics Ready-to-Navigate base map for their Voyage Planner application by simply registering their multifunction display online.

Voyage Planner users can also connect their routes and waypoints to the cloud using the all new Voyage XChange website. Access to the Voyage XChange website is through a low cost annual subscription, and Voyage Planner users receive free 12 month access. Voyage XChange allows Raymarine Voyage Planner users to store waypoints and routes online and purchase charts for use in their Raymarine multifunction display or Voyage Planner software. Voyage XChange can also connect with your Facebook account and let you share your trip plans with your friends online.

For additional product information please visit www.raymarine.com.

Premium High-Resolution Thermal Night Vision with a Color TV Camera

Miami International Boat Show, 16th – 20th February, Booth A100

Raymarine announced the newest addition to its family of thermal night vision products for boaters, the T470SC gyro-stabilised thermal camera.

Engineered with FLIR thermal imaging technology the T470SC is equipped with a high resolution, long-range thermal imager, a color low light visible TV camera with 10:1 optical zoom, and active gyro-stabilisation.

Using internal gyroscopes that compensate for vessel movement automatically, the T470SC’s active gyro-stabilisation provides a steady image when seas are rough. Now boaters can have the best of both worlds: the power to see small objects from great distances, and smooth imagery on the open water.

The T470SC also has a color TV camera with a continuous zoom lens that automatically matches its field of view to that of the thermal camera, so users won’t get disoriented when switching between cameras.

The T470SC integrates seamlessly with Raymarine multifunction displays including Raymarine’s all new e-Series multifunction displays with HybridTouch™. The T470SC combined with an e-Series display gives boaters simple touch screen pan and tilt control, plus full access to all camera functions directly from the e-Series interface.

Housed in a rugged, waterproof gimbal enclosure that provides continuous 360° pan and +/-90° tilt capability, theT470SC provides horizon-to-horizon thermal imaging or low light color camera coverage.

Leisure marine industry leaders focus on ease of use and practicality

Actisense, the world leaders in the leisure marine industry, have through meticulous research and development unveiled the latest additions to their growing NMEA 2000 product range. The NMEA 2000 range of cables and connectors, designed by Actisense, are fully certified and are available internationally from their network of distributors and dealers.

Actisense, a brand from Active Research Limited, has created their range of cables and connectors to be superior to any similar products available. The focus has been to carefully consider any existing industry install and usability issues found with other manufacturers connectors and have their new range designed to combat these issues and make the user experience uncomplicated and trouble-free.

The Actisense Micro Bulk Cable is UL certified and is available in 100 metre reels. The same cable will be used in the Cable Assemblies that are available in lengths from 10m down to 0.25m. The Actisense T piece provides simple installation where a drop connection is required and the male and female Terminators are used at either end of an NMEA 2000 backbone to ensure proper operation. Further additions to the range include a Power T, featuring a 3m cable to offer flexibility when installing, as well as Panel Mount Connectors.

Managing Director of Active Research Limited, Phil Whitehurst, commented: “When we first started Actisense, we did it to make the lives of installers and boat owners easier and more fulfilling. This series of NMEA cables and connectors will prove greatly useful in both installation and use.

For more information about Actisense, visit www.actisense.com and follow them on Twitter and Facebook.

Storing or retrieving gear from lockers onboard should be hassle free.  Accon Marine's 101 and 102 Locking/Non-Locking Lift Rings enable boat owners to conveniently access their supplies with the pull of a handle, while keeping items effortlessly secured when not in use.

Both models are offered in locking and non-locking versions.  They feature a spring returned loop.  Recessed ends allow for water runoff.  Designed with style in mind, the 101 and 102 Series are constructed from long-lasting, sleek stainless steel.

The 101 Lift Ring measures 4.7cm x 5.3cm, while the 102 Lift Ring is 4.7cm x 5.7cm.  Both models require drilling a 2cm hole and secured with #8 screws for installation.

The 102 Series is offered with single or double cam.  Various cam lengths and offsets are available for either series.

Accon Marine has been associated with superior-quality precision metalwork for more than 30 years.  The company offers a full range of stainless steel marine hardware.

Contact Accon Marine, 13665 Automobile Blvd., Clearwater, FL  33762.  727-572-9202; Fax: 727-572-7621.

www.acconmarine.com.

Whether before Spring launching or Fall storage, anode inspection is most easily performed when a boat is out of the water.  When replacing anodes, owners should consider the type of water in which they boat to best protect their craft. The potential environmental impacts of anode materials also come into play, as all anodes are not the same.

Anodes are needed to protect against galvanic corrosion.  Immersing two different metals in water can create a small electrical current.  This steadily corrodes the less noble metal, such as the aluminum outboard housing connected to a steel prop, or the copper plumbing joined by steel fittings.  Saltwater, which is highly conductive, speeds this process.  So does any stray electrical current, as could be found in a marina or even aboard the owner's boat.

Sacrificial anodes, made from the least noble metals such as zinc, aluminum and magnesium, attract the electrical current. Anodes are meant to be destroyed, so expensive equipment isn't.  They have been used for centuries.

The water in which a boat sits helps determine the best anode type to use.  Zinc and aluminum alloys work well in saltwater.  In brackish waters, aluminum is better, as zinc's efficiency decreases with reduced salinity.  Freshwater boaters cannot use zinc at all – magnesium is the only metal alloy that will offer anode protection in freshwater.

Zinc is one of the most well-known anode materials, a readily available and inexpensive metal.  However, zinc anodes contain small amounts of cadmium, a heavy metal known to be toxic.  When the zinc anode corrodes away, small amounts of cadmium are also released into the water.  The environmental impact of zinc and cadmium is one issue the boat owner should weigh when selecting anodes.

An alternative is aluminum alloy, which contains nothing environmentally threatening.  Aluminum anodes perform as well as, or better than, zinc.  They have better electro-chemical properties, are lighter, and have become competitively priced.

CMP Global is one supplier who offers a broad array of zinc, aluminum and magnesium anodes to protect boats in all types of water.  Its Martyr II aluminum and Martyr III magnesium anodes contain no cadmium.

From CMP Global, The Business Center, Upton, St. Michael, Barbados BB 11103.  +604-940-2010; JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING ; www.cmpglobal.com.

London, 16 February : Rally driver Simon Wing (Newark, Nottinghamshire) is the latest powerboat racing newcomer to join the P1 SuperStock Championship as entries for the 2012 season continue to flood in thick and fast.

Wing, who celebrates his 37th birthday today (Thursday, 16 February), has been competing in club-level motorsport for 20 years and intends to dovetail his ongoing rallying involvement with his maiden season of powerboat racing.

“I’ve never been on the water in my life so this is all totally new but I wanted to do something different, alongside the rallying, and with the P1 SuperStock season being just five weekends it all fits in really well”, said the powerboat novice, “I wasn’t sure what to look at doing originally but I saw P1 advertised, thought it looked really interesting and here I am.”

The Nottinghamshire clubman, who is a kitchen manufacturer by trade with his own business Newark Joinery, has competed in a variety of cars over the years in rallying, from Ford Escorts and Ford Sierra Cosworths to Peugeot 205s and Subaru Imprezas.

Particular rallying highlights include finishing first in class in the 2007 Carlton and District Motor Club Single Venue Championship andsecond in class in the Rainworth Skoda EMAMC Multi-Use Stage Rally Championship.

Wing’s powerboat racing debut will come during the opening round of the season on 19/20 May, the Plymouth Grand Prix of the Sea, but before then he will be required to undertake official training in order to obtain his competition licence. “I start my licence training in a couple of weeks so I’m looking forward to that and hoping I can do all four days in one go”, he added.

There is a strong synergy, of course, between P1 SuperStock and rallying with the use of a driver and navigator in both sporting disciplines. Before the start of his maiden season in powerboats, Wing is on the look-out for someone to partner him in the five events between May and September.

Any navigators interested in teaming-up with Simon Wing in the headline P1 250 Class are invited to contact SuperStock UK Championship Manager Paolo Callea on 07826 947092 or by email to JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING

Trade Show Expands and Broadens Its Reach to All Segments of the Boating Industry, Scheduled for Oct. 2-4 in Louisville

MIAMI – Feb. 16, 2012 – (Marine NewsWire) The 22nd annual International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) is scheduled to take place Oct. 2-4, 2012, at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. The trade show and industry gathering is owned and co-produced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Professional BoatBuilder magazine.

“It’s not too early to start planning for IBEX 2012,” said co-director Carl Cramer. “The boating business is finally starting to turn the corner, and at IBEX you can get a jump-start on the business upsurge by seeing what’s on the horizon in new products for the coming year, learning about new technologies and techniques, making deals, engaging with customers, meeting with your distribution partners and networking with your peers.”

IBEX show management anticipates an increase in attendance as the marine industry business climate continues to improve. “With more than 100,000 sq ft of exhibit space, 500+ exhibitors, 90+ technical/business seminars, 12+ free exhibitor workshops and three full days of meetings with business partners and trade customers, IBEX will be the premier trade event on the boating industry calendar for 2012,” said Cramer. “IBEX is moving beyond its traditional core market of production and custom boatbuilders, and is becoming an industry-wide event with something for everyone. We’ll again be featuring an outdoor demo area, Connect Fest, sponsored by the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA), and the dedicated Aftermarket Pavilion sponsored by Soundings Trade Only will offer exhibits, seminars and events tailored to the interests of distributors and retailers and much more.”

IBEX is moving to a new time slot for 2012, two weeks earlier than 2011. “Under our agreement with the Kentucky Exposition Center, we will gradually move it earlier on the calendar over the next two years into a mid-September timeframe, which research has shown is the most desirable time for exhibitors and attendees,” said Cramer.

Last year’s IBEX, held Oct. 17-19, was a successful event despite the economic slump affecting the boating business, with 555 exhibitors, including 41 international companies from 11 countries, showing their products and services to 4,672 marine industry professionals attending. There were also 90 seminars in 14 different tracks presenting technical information as well as management, service and operations.

“IBEX has been and remains important to us because during these last few years of a slower than average economy, our experience has been that the quality of attendees has been much higher,” said Ronnie Free of Frees, Inc., a long-time exhibitor at IBEX. “By quality I mean that the persons visiting our booth were in key decision making positions. We are seeing more owners and top executives. And the value of seeing our customers, getting to say thank you and getting to say hello to old friends is priceless.”

About IBEX

IBEX is owned and produced by Professional BoatBuilder magazine and NMMA. For boatbuilders, designers, repairers, surveyors, and boatyard/marine operators, IBEX is the single source for the latest boatbuilding technologies, tools, and materials. For complete information, visit: www.ibexshow.com.

About Professional BoatBuilder magazine

Professional BoatBuilder, a boatbuilding-industry trade magazine, was first published in 1989 in response to a growing need for a dedicated forum for boatbuilding-related professionals. The magazine’s worldwide readership exceeds 24,000 (subject to BPA international audit). Professional BoatBuilder is online at www.proboat.com.

About NMMA

The NMMA is the leading association representing the recreational boating industry. NMMA member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, accessories and gear used by boaters in North America. The association is dedicated to industry growth through programs in public policy advocacy, market statistics and research, product quality assurance and promotion of the boating lifestyle. Learn more at www.nmma.org.

The 18th century mill building at Birdham Pool Marina, Chichester Harbour, is to be sold by auction on 16th April 2012.  As one of the most significant and picturesque buildings in Chichester Harbour, this impressive Grade II listed property is truly a one-off.

Set beside the lock at the end of its own peninsula, the Mill offers an extraordinary restoration opportunity.  Most recently used as a store, the beautiful brick and timber building could potentially be converted to residential usage; either as one exceptional home or divided into three deluxe units.   Alternatively, with its prestigious waterside location and unparalleled dual aspect views across the harbour, it would make a fantastic restaurant subject to all the necessary consents being obtainable.

Sam Bourne of Castle Marinas, owners of Birdham Pool comments, "With access across the harbour lock and spectacular views over the marina, there can be few buildings in Chichester with such a sought after location.”

Birdham Mill will go to auction at the Hilton Brighton Metropole on 16th April 2012.  For more information about the property, contact David Adams, Henry Adams, on 01243 533633 JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING or Sam Kinloch, Clive Emson Auctioneers, on 0845 603 6614 JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING