Nipper , a South Catamaran 36/11 Island model, will also be appearing at seawork this year, being used by the Isle of Wight based boatbuilders for commuting to and from the exhibition.

Kingfisher is the 23rd catamaran built by South Boats Ltd and is the second new launch of 2004. It measures 11m LOA with a 5.03m beam, 1.06m draught, and a displacement of some 10,000kg with full fuel and water. The first of many South Boats craft destined for the Channel Islands, it has been commissioned by St Peter port skipper Gareth Griffin to replace an Aqua Bell 33.

Mr Griffin originally intended to operate the vessel for private cruising and light charter angling but as the build progressed the operational emphasis shifted firmly to charter angling and light commercial potting. The evolving specification has resulted in what is perhaps the most elaborate charter angling boat in the UK.

Power is supplied by twin 5.5 litre, straight six cylinder Volvo Penta TAMD63P diesel engines delivering 370hp for a successful mix of performance and economy.

Matched to Twin Disc MG5061A gearboxes with a reduction ratio of 1.75:1 and driving conventional Clements 1.75in stainless steel propeller shafts and four bladed 22in by 27in NAB propellers, the engines produce a top speed of 28.9 knots at 2,800rpm and an economical (12 GPH) loaded cruising speed of 20.2 knots at 2,000rpm. The engines are fitted with Volvo Penta's electronic engine control system to three stations.

The Sports Fisherman model features a full GRP foredeck and coachroof as well as aft raking screens to give a more aesthetically pleasing appearance than the basic workboat variants of the same hull. However, in common with workboat versions, the flush, sealed and self draining aft working deck gives a massive 27m 2working area extending up the starboard side of the wheelhouse to a recessed steering station and protected engine control head.

Fitments and equipment on board Kingfisher are far too extensive to list in this space but the opportunity to view the 'boat that has everything' should not be missed and can be taken by visiting South Boats on the seawork floating pontoon.

MJ Information No: 19564