The 'Sea 3' can be powered by inboard or outboard engines up to a total of 200 HP. One of the most useful propulsion options involves a single inboard diesel with hydraulic pump powering twin independently controlled stern drives. This provides optimum manoeuvrability with the added advantage of also being able run any other hydraulically driven equipment.

The outer hulls of the 'Sea 3' are permanently hinged to the sides of the central hull. Prior to launch and with the boat still on the trailer, they are rotated outwards and secured to the central hull with heavy duty stainless steel 'over-centre' bolts which are somewhat like suitcase catches. On each side there is one at the bow and one at the stern externally, and three more inside.

Once the outriggers have been folded out and secured, the forward spray shield is clipped in position and the 'radar arch' slotted into place together with the support frames for the canvas cover with its transparent 'windscreen' panels. This forms the basis of a generously sized weatherproof cockpit forward, with two seats and plenty of room for equipment whilst still leaving some 9 m2 (100 sq/ft) of useful deck area which will carry up to 1.9 tons. The forward cockpit can be extended aft to incorporate galley facilities and/or heads.

The transparent 'canvas' windscreen panels are braced on hinged frames that fold back against the 'radar arch' in fine weather. A rigid cockpit superstructure could be provided where foldability and trailability were not requirements. It is also possible to extend a canvas cover across part or the whole of the aft deck.

The first Sea 3 will be delivered next month to a hotel owner in Ireland who will use it to take guests fishing during the season. In the off season, he wanted a vessel he could fold up, put on a trailer, and store out of the elements at his hotel.

Vessel designer Peter Sylvester has been perfecting his design over a number of years and believes that in Sea 3 form, he has a most versatile vessel which could be suitable for any number of applications where cost, portability, manoeuvrability in the water and payload are priorities.