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Isle of Wight Boatbuilder South Boats Confidently Soar into seawork2002
01 Jun 2002
The Isle of Wight boatyard South Boats Ltd steams into seawork2002 full of confidence, with confirmed orders for a number of craft guaranteeing the company's future. A large order will be announced at the exhibition for a pair of substantial craft to operate in the Solent area.
South Boats have earned a well-deserved reputation for building high quality fast load carrying catamarans of 32 and 36ft. The yard has recently launched two South Catamaran 36/11 models. The first of these, Nipper, will be exhibited afloat at seawork2002 and has been built to MCA Category 2 for an Isle of Wight skipper who will operate the vessel for commercial services. Nipper is fitted with an island wheelhouse permitting full access around the sides and the bow giving a flush working deck area of 530 square feet. Power is by twin Cummins 6BTA5.9 280hp diesel engines for a light sprint speed of 26 knots and a loaded cruising speed of 20 knots at 2,20rpm or 18 knots at 2,000rpm.
South Boats' salesman Ben Coleman recently throttled the vessel up to 24 knots straight out of the harbour into a southeasterly Force 8 and 5m breaking surf without slamming.
The astonished owner and seven charter skippers were amazed when the craft tested comfortably with the sea on all angles and at all speeds.
The second 36/11, Skin Deep, has also been built to MCA Category 2 for charter diving from Weymouth. The vessel has a large offset wheelhouse with seating for 12 persons. An electric dive lift to the transom allows divers to be recovered with ease. Skin Deep is powered by twin Yanmar 6LYA-STE 350hp diesel engines for a loaded cruising speed of 24 knots.
A third vessel recently delivered is a 32/10 Commercial which will be operated from Portsmouth for commercial fishing. The island wheelhouse vessel Phyllis John is fitted with twin steering positions, a pot/net hauler to the starboard side and a dredging/trawling gantry to the stern. Fitted with twin John Deere 6068TFM 225hp diesels, the Phyllis John will cruise at 18 to 20 knots.
In addition to these craft, South Boats have confirmed orders for a further four South 36 catamarans for delivery this year. Designs have also been released for a 36ft charter boat monohull, as well as 45, 48 and 52ft catamarans. Work is about to commence on the mould tools for the larger cats.
MJ information No: 17123
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