Outside, the tubes are triple clad with heavy duty 'D' fendering which protects the tubes from puncture by hooks. In any case, this boat can operate with the tubes totally deflated.

The forward cabin comes from a Fast Fisher 21 and is bonded to the bow deck, giving 6ft of headroom. The floor is raised to prevent water from entering the cabin.

The cabin itself is fitted with a starboard console, Kab seat, and a bench/berth on the port side. There is ample locker space and a gas cooker/oven has been incorporated.

Power is provided by a Yamaha ME421 diesel fitted within a waterproof engine box which doubles as a seat.

During trials 28 knots was achieved with 12 people on board. A stainless steel underfloor fuel tank provides a range of 400 miles. Forward there is a liferaft rack and storage for four fish boxes.

Electronic equipment includes a Raymarine 435 colour GPS, Garmin 126 GPS and 240 Fish Finder, Simrad RD68 DSC VHF, Icom handheld VHF, and compass. The fully coded boat is equipped with lifebelts, life jackets, survival suits and other essentials.

Skipper Hamish Currie has fished with a Red Bay Fast Fisher 21 for the last five years. He received a grant from the Irish Department of Leisure, Art & Culture (Inland Waterways) towards the new boat.

MJ Information No: 19235