Sydney Boat Show - 2012 Preview

ALASKA

Reviewed by Trade-a-boat

ARVOR

Sydney’s Collins Marine presents the Arvor Weekender as part of its range at the Sydney show. A derivative of the Arvor fishing boat range, the 7m Weekender has additional features like a larger lockable cabin, big vee-berth, convertible dinette, galley with 12V fridge and gas stove, plus head compartment and two sinks with pressurised water for family-friendly weekends away. The European-built boat sports a single 150hp Cummins CMD diesel, the shaftdrive engine mid-mounted for superior balance. Top speed is 22kts. For more information, see www.arvor.com.au

BACK COVE

When Trade-a-Boat reviewed EMarine’s Back Cove 34 last February our editor thought the test boat’s owner summed-up the vessel perfectly, when he said, “the Back Cove 34 quite simply makes me feel good about owning a boat. To be able to indulge my passion for a life afloat with my wife and a dog in stress-free style is something I cannot put a price on. Fortunately in this case, the price was not even that high.” For more information, log on www.emarine.com.au

BAVARIA POWER & SAIL

Ensign Ship Brokers presents a range of Bavaria sportsboats at Sydney including the Bavaria Sport 34 Hard Top (pictured). Trade-a-Boat reviewed the boat in March and said the following: “As an entertainer the Bavaria 43HT makes a strong case for being as good as gets in this class of sportsboat. With seating room for at least 15 guests, loads of refrigeration, a barbecue, sun-lounger on the bow and the enormous fully submersible swimplatform, there is no excuse for not making the most of a destination like Sydney.” For more information, click on www.ensignbrokers.com.au

BELIZE
Boating Syndication Australia will have the beautiful Belize 52 Hardtop on display at Darling Harbour. The new Australian luxury marque, Belize Motoryachts, is also releasing the new Daybridge model featuring an open flybridge at the show through parent company Riviera. New Belize boats are distributed through the R Marine and Riviera dealer network nationally and internationally, so Belize Motoryachts now come with Riviera’s aftersales care and support service.
For more information, see www.boatingsyndicationaustralia.com.au; www.belizemotoryachts.com.au

BENETEAU POWER

“It looks like a trawler, but it’s swift,” so said Allan Whiting in his test of the Beneteau Swift Trawler 44 in July last year. And that was no pun. That 45-plus-footer to be exhibited by JW Marine, touched 25kts with eight people onboard. The two-cabin passagemaker can cater for a crowd, sleep six at night, or be an ideal liveaboard for the seafaring couple. For more information, visit www.jwmarine.com.au

BENETEAU SAIL

Vicsail, Australia's Beneteau and Lagoon distributors will be highlighting the Beneteau range including the 2012 European Yacht of the Year, the Beneteau Oceanis 45 (above), at the Sydney International Boat Show. Complementing the Beneteau range, Vicsail will introduce you to beautiful daysailers, the Tofinou and Ringle. For more information, visit www.vicsail.com

BERTRAM

Legendary American sportsfishing boatbuilder Bertram, represented in Australia by Eagle Yachts, presents a brand-new Bertram 63 Hardtop at Sydney this year. It’s a boat we are yet to review so we are as excited as anyone to take a first look. Smaller Berties have an almost cult following in gamefish hotspots around the globe, while the big girls have proven time and again to be offshore weapons with few rivals. For further information, see www.eagleyachts.com.au

BUIZEN

On public debut for the first time in Darling Harbour the Buizen 52 was the talk of the town at its launch in March. Trade-a-Boat yachting maven Allan Whiting had this to say, “Buizen yachts have established an enviable reputation for quality and cruising ability. The 48’s cruising credentials haven’t been compromised, but the 52’s larger pilothouse and cockpit expands the marque’s appeal to those who simply want the best.” For more information, log on www.buizenyachts.com.au

CARIBBEAN 

Melbourne’s venerable boatbuilder International Marine will have the Caribbean 40 MkII alongside the C35 MkIII on its stand this year. The two flybridge cruisers are both powered by twin diesels and cruise between 20 and 24kts, utilising the same great offshore hulls. A hands-on inspection of one of Australia’s most popular production fishing boats is a must. For more information, see www.caribbeanboats.com

CATALINA

Ausail Marine Group (AMG) showcases two award-winning Catalina models, the C445 and C355, at Sydney. The Catalina 355 took out the 2011 Cruising World magazine Domestic Boat of the Year award, while the Catalina 445 was named Sail Magazine’s Best Boat 2010, as well as Best Full-Size Cruiser by Cruising World in the same year.
For more information, visit www.ausailmarine.com

CHAPARRAL

This American sportsboat builder’s Australian distributor, Chaparral Boats Australia, has a hardstand display this year for its nine-boat entourage. The exhibition includes seven trailerable models including the 327 SSX (above) and the 310 Signature cruiser. For more information, visit www.aussieboatsales.com.au

CLIPPER 

Clipper Motor Yachts will be displaying its Hudson Bay 50. In a radical departure for Clipper, noted for producing semi-displacement trawler yachts, the Hudson Bay 50 is a sedan-styled cruiser targeting weekend family boaters. The company has spent a great deal of time and energy to ensure they combine the classic lines with the relaxed lifestyle aspects of a sedan cruiser. For more information, go to www.clippermotoryachts.com.au

CHRIS-CRAFT

Hollywood stars, presidents and the well-heeled are among those who prefer these Yankee boats with a long history. According to the official figures, the Corsair 28 (pictured) hits 55mph or almost 48kts. The old company slogan, “a piece of the good life”, remains true today. Rumour has it Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe agree.
For more information, see www.premiermarine.com.au

DEHLER YACHTS

Dehler yachts are performance cruisers with a quality build, fit and finish. The 41 has a fast cruising option with folding bathing platform and moderate draft or a racing variant with deep lead keel, carbon or alloy rig, open cockpit and forestay taken right to the stem. The Dehler 32 offers great performance and racing ergonomics. Both boats make their debut at Darling Harbour.
For more information, go to www.windcraftdehler.com

DELTACRAFT ISLANDER

Not everyone in this fast-paced world will embrace the idea of a classic-design displacement boat, but there are those who like the idea of adopting a relaxed mode when boating. The Deltacraft Islander makes no pretense about being a speed machine, but if the idea of regularly getting out fishing and mucking around on the water, while only filling the tank every few months appeals then the Deltacraft Islander might just be the ticket.
For more information, visit www.deltacraft.com.au

DRAGONFLY 

The Dragonfly 35 is said to be the perfect trimaran for the monohull sailor who wants to explore the world of multihull sailing. The folding floats allow entry to regular marina berths, while providing the speed and exhilaration of true multihull performance. There’s full standing headroom of 1.94m and you can sleep six in comfort. For more information, visit www.eyachts.com.au/sailing_yachts_47

FAIRLINE

Fairline is one of the world's leading manufacturers of luxury motoryachts. The British-based builder is considered a class leader in terms of design innovation, technical integrity and craftsmanship. The award-winning Targa 58 Gran Turismo will be on display at the Sydney International Boat Show and is must viewing for those looking for something out of the ordinary. For more information, log on www.fairline.com

FJORD

Fjord boats stand out from the crowd. Yet they’re practical, powerful and deliciously luxurious. With twin Volvo IPS diesels the 40 has a speed of raceboat with a 5-star king-sized owner’s cabin to boot.
For more information, see www.eyachts.com.au/motor_yachts_5

FLEMING

The fabulous long-range Fleming 55 passagemaker returns to Sydney. Sam Nicholas of Fleming Yachts Australia, says that while the F55 hull no.213 is the builder’s only SIBS show boat it is an experience not to be missed. While this is not the actual Fleming 55 that wowed Trade-a-Boat editor Jeff Strang in May, this beautiful vessel is an absolute for lovers of quality at SIBS. For more information, go to www.fleming.com

FOUNTAIN PAJOT 

Headlining Multihull Solutions’ display is the exciting Southern Hemisphere launch of Fountaine Pajot’s new flagship sailing catamaran, the Sanya 57. Multihull Solutions will also stage the NSW launches of the new Catana 47 and the 2012 model Fountaine Pajot Lipari 41 sailing catamarans. For further information, see
www.multihullsolutions.com.au

GRADY-WHITE

Runaway Bay-based sportsfishing specialist Game & Leisure Boats presents the Grady-White 290 as part of a range of hardcore American gamefishers. Although Trade-a-Boat is yet to review this model Grady-Whites are considered one of the finest and best presented small to medium sized sportsfishers available.
For more information, visit www.gandlb.com

GREENLINE

Greenline Hybrids have captured Trade-a-Boat’s attention since their Australian launch in 2010. Featuring cutting-edge hybrid technology these vessels can cruise up to 20 nautical miles on no fuel at all. With Euro-styling and quality furnishings Greenline Hybrids are a home-away-from-home with a conscience.
For further information, see www.eyachts.com.au/motor_yachts_19

HAMPTON 

The second of two exceptional vessels at Sydney from Leigh-Smith Cruiser Sales, the majestic Hampton 680 Pilothouse is certain to take centre stage at the company’s display. Leigh-Smith Cruiser Sales is a third generation, family-owned business backed by Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard at Coomera. Take it from Trade-a-Boat, this team can “walk the talk”. For more information, log on
www.lscruisersales.com.au

HANSE

Debuting at SIBS, and less than one year since its global launch, the Hanse 385 has become the marque’s best-selling yacht. Buyers speak of its increased interior volume and ease of sailing as being the key features of this economical model. And new for 2012, the Hanse 415 has a lot to live up to. Her predecessor, the 400, is Australia's best-selling 40-foot sailing boat ever.
For more information, visit www.windcrafthanse.com

HORIZON MOTOR YACHTS

Horizon Motor Yachts Australia are excited to be showcasing three brand-new models at this year’s Sydney boat show — the brand-new E54, the AC80 Catamaran with huge 27ft beam and the world-class P105. For a touch of superyacht style check out the Horizon stand.
For more information, visit www.hmya.com.au

HUNTER

Both the Hunter e33 and the Hunter 50AC make their debuts at the Sydney show. The 50 is described as “an absolute dream”, its luxurious interior boasting caramel leather, teak, two flatscreen TVs, beds with inner spring mattresses and an excellent galley. Visitors will also be able to check out the e36 and the 45DS — both very popular Hunter models.
For further information, go to www.usyachts.com.au

INTEGRITY

After a successful Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, Integrity Motor Yachts will display its popular 330 Sedan and 360 Sedan models at Darling Harbour. Wide, walkaround sidedecks and stylish, functional interiors ensure these beautifully crafted motoryachts are the perfect cruising and entertaining option for families and couples alike. For more information, log on www.integrityboats.com.au

JEANNEAU POWER

Jeanneau presents its NC9 and Leader 10 models at Darling Harbour. Demonstrating all the qualities that have made the NC11 a success, the new NC9 express cruiser incorporates a contemporary atmosphere, modular design, and a modern apartment feeling atmosphere. The Leader 10 is the largest of the new Jeanneau cabin cruisers, with sporty lines, large stylised windows, and a choice of soft or hard top.
For more information, visit www.MWMarine.com.au

JEANNEAU SAIL

Cruising World's Yacht of the Year for 2012 and European Yacht of the Year 2012 nominated, the Sun Odyssey 379 is joined by the Sun Odyssey 33i, the Sun Odyssey 439, and for the first time in Australia, the Sun Odyssey 509 designed by Philippe Briand. The Jeanneau SO509 combine’s timeless design and seaworthiness with a high-aspect ratio sail plan to allow for a large selection of sails. For further information, go to www.yachtbrokers.com.au

JOHNSON MOTOR YACHTS

When Trade-a-Boat editor Jeff Strang tested the Johnson 65 in March he described it as one of the two best boats personally tested during his tenure. With a superyacht’s fit and finish this large volume, classy cruiser features a level of handling unique to its class. A tour of the Johnson 65 is a box that must be ticked.
For more information, see www.johnsonmotoryachts.com.au

MARITIMO

The first new Maritimo 45 Cruising Motoryacht is currently under production and will be on display at the Sydney International Boat Show. The company says the M45 will be one of its standout models in 2012 and has evolved after considerable R&D, including one-on-one research sessions not only with dealers but also current Maritimo owners to ensure that it meets all market expectations.
For more information, log on www.maritimo.com.au

MJM 

A new American yard to our shores, Boston’s MJM Yachts presents the new MJM 36z Downeast cruiser, and like the name implies has timeless Down East styling. Robert Hawke from Sydney-based MJM Yachts Australia says the 36-footer is a refreshing take on the design. “It’s also a lively, easy to dock, shallow drafted born entertainer,” he tells us. For further information, visit www.mjmyachts.com

MOODY

Moody sailboats are always favorites with the SIBS crowd. The Moody 45 Deck Saloon offers single-floor living with panoramic views from the upstairs living space, while the Bill Dixon designed Moody 41 AC Classic combines quality engineering with traditional craftsmanship.
For further information, log on www.windcraftmoody.com

MUSTANG

The third model to be released under Bill Barry-Cotter’s new line is the Mustang 43 Sports Cruiser. The twin-diesel shaftdrive has three cabins, a bathroom with separate shower, enclosed hardtop, starboardside galley with Euro appliances, and cockpit featuring alfresco seating. The new Mustang range was released at last year’s SIBS and the company is happy to report the completely revamped brand has been a star performer for the company over the past 12 months. For more information, visit www.sbmmaritimosydney.com.au

OUTER REEF

The Outer Reef 63 motoryacht is a long-range passagemaker, and the one on display at Sydney will have travelled from Melbourne via Sanctuary Cove for that earlier show. Local agent Andrew Coffey says the original six-day journey was at an economical 8.3kts with a total consumption of around 22lt/h between the two 503hp Caterpillar C9 diesels. Outer Reef Yachts are American owned and Taiwanese built, with models from 58 to 115ft.
For more information, see www.outerreefyachts.com

PELORUS 

The new Pelorus 44 should find a niche in the crowded trawler yacht market. The fully-equipped cruiser recently made its Australian debut and can cater for two couples or a family, entertaining up to 16 by day. Built in China by respected manufacturer Poly Marine, the boat is powered by twin 370hp Volvo Penta D6 turbo-diesels for a top speed of 20kts, with best cruise at 16kts. For further information, visit www.pelorusmarine.com

PRESTIGE
Currently the European Powerboat of the Year, we agreed the Prestige 500 was a vessel designed with a simple yet elegant style and quality seakeeping characteristics. A large living space provides the balance of requirements that owners expect. Of particular appeal is the owner’s suite with its unique separate entrance and en suite. Along with her sister ship, the Prestige 500 S, the 500 will be popular choice for Australian customers. For further information, log on www.MWMarine.com.au

PRINCESS 

Luxury British marque Princess has two boats at Sydney, the new V72 V Class sportsyacht (above), featuring latest infusion technology and a modified deep-vee hull, and the Princess 60 flybridge with carbon fibre hardtop. Exhibitor Princess Yachts Australia will have the boats alongside its floating corporate facility, offering a relaxing environment for Princess owners and invited guests to enjoy coffee and a selection of culinary delights.
For more information, see www.princessaustralia.com.au

RANGER TUGS

Ranger Tugs recently released R-27 27 joins the R-21, R-25 and R-29 models already on the water in Australia. In only a couple of months this distinctive vessel has garnered huge interest with a large number of genuine buyers from the recent Queensland show following up with extended sea trials. Ranger Tugs now has an extensive dealer network in all states.
For further information, visit www.rangertugs.com.au

RIVIERA

There's plenty to see from Australian luxury boatyard Riviera, with a $12.8 million line-up of new boats from its Sport Yacht, Enclosed and Open Flybridge ranges, including boat show debutantes the 63EF (above) and 5000 SY, but most intriguing is the launch of a completely new model series. The builder is saying very little at this stage, apart that the new range is in the mid-40ft size bracket, will have wide appeal and is "something quite different". The Riviera display is at the southern end of Cockle bay Marina. For more information, see www.riviera.com.au

SABRE

Combining traditional boatbuilding with the latest in technology, the Down East-styled Sabre 40 cuts the mustard out on the water with a top speed of 32kts from twin 380hp Cummins QSB5.9 turbo-diesels, or ease the throttle for an economical 10kts with a total fuel burn of 45lt/h. Best cruise is between 14 to 17kts, with consumption at around 75lt/h. For more information, see www.emarine.com.au

SALONA

US Yachts is the new Australian distributor for Salona Yachts, a range of performance cruising keelboats from 35 to 60ft. The yachts are made by AD Boats at Split, on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Salona’s yachts are designed for use as family cruisers as well as for serious offshore or international racing, and excel in heavy weather. The Salona 38 will be making its Australian debut at the Sydney International Boat Show.
For further information, go to www.usyachts.com.au

SEALEGS

Sirocco Marine has a massive display of tenders and amphibians at the Sydney show. A full range of Brig, Sirocco, and Williams jet tenders will be on display, including the world release of the Brig Eagle 645. Rounding out Sirocco’s range are the innovative and globally successful Sealegs amphibians. Look for the recently released Sealegs 7.7 Cuddy Cabin.
For more information, visit www.siroccomarine.com

SEAWIND

In a world debut, Seawind Catamarans launches the Seawind 1000 XL2, the first boat out of new factory, at SIBS. Also on show is the flagship Seawind 1250. The XPac version (stands for Trans-Pacific) is kitted for ocean voyages, with Raymarine electronics, cruising sails, watermaker, and more.
For more information, visit www.seawindcats.com

SUNSEEKER

Sunseeker Australia launches the brand-new Manhattan 53 for the first time locally at this year’s Sydney boat show.
With a range of interior and engine options, this stunning new model is an exciting addition to the Flybridge range. The Sunseeker on-water display will also include the 86 Yacht, 73 Manhattan and 64 Predator.
For further information, visit www.sunseeker.com.au

TIGER INFLATABLES

In this issue of Trade-a-Boat, our smiling scribe said: "To my eye the SportLine 480 is a beautifully presented vessel any true-blue Aussie wishing to fly the flag would love. In summary the OZ Tiger is safe, sporty and comfortable, providing go-anywhere capability in sheltered waters." For further information, visit: www.jcmarine.com.au

VANDUTCH

Experience Euro pleasureboating at its most indulgent aboard the cutting-edge VanDutch 40 runaboat. Designed by acclaimed Dutch superyacht designer, Frank Mulder, the minimalist dayboat is fitted with hydraulic motor hatch and foldout bowsprit, while two 480hp Yanmar six-cylinder turbo-diesels rocket the smooth-riding hull to a reported top speed of 45kts. For more information, see www.vandutchaustralia.com.au

From Trade-a-Boat, Issue 429, July-Aug, 2012. Story: Jeff Strang; John Panozzo; David Lockwood; Supplied.
Photos: Ellen Dewar; Supplied