The only specialised marine publication in Oceania that focuses on the maritime industry, from super yachts to small craft to large commercial ships, including coastal shipping, tugs, tow boats, barges, ferries, tourist, sport-fishing craft, je
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quickly to a large, load-carrying hull that generates minimal wash at her service speed of about 12 knots. The rising chine quickly turns the bow wave while it is still green, reducing the tendency to toss spray that may be picked up by the breeze. The reverse sheer windows up for'ard are an excellent choice, as they reduce glare, are easy to clear in the rain and provide more space in the wheelhouse. Above and behind the wheelhouse, a low screen softens the overall look of the topsides and affords some shelter from the wind for those on the upper deck. Fullers decided not to paint or treat the alloy structure and apart from the graphics, the topsides and hull are being left to weather and take on their own natural, protective patina, in keeping with the company's environmental policy. This has proved to be a sensible decision and as the aluminium dulls and loses its glare it will remain serviceable and easy to clean. An EnviroGold Award, awarded by Qualmark in recognition of the company's efforts and commitment to reduce its impact on the environment, is to be applauded. One of the main features carried over from the Bay Belle is the open upper deck, which was always popular with travellers, and side-door loadings. The Bay Belle II can carry up to 100 passengers in all weathers and to ensure she stays within her stability limits the upper deck is restricted in size and width. The Salt rafts are stacked and stowed on both sides outside the rails and a fenced space has some simple bench seats. Access to the upper deck is via a set of stairs off the aft deck, where a large hatch gives access to the lazarette below. Side-loading is through two small gates in the side bulwarks off the aft deck, although the main loading area is via the for'ard side watertight doors just behind the conning position. The seating in the main cabin is arranged in a for'ard- facing configuration designed to handle the knocks from commuters' bags, backpacks and tourist baggage. The journey across the bay lasts only seven to 10 minutes, depending on the weather, so comfort was not a major consideration, although glued-down waterproof carpet strips eliminate unexpected chills from the alloy seating into the nether regions. The seats are finished with a nice strip of timber on the backboard to soften the commercial tram look. There is no passenger toilet, eliminating something else to go wrong or to be serviced and cleaned. Up for'ard, the bridge is fully enclosed, with an aft sliding door that may be locked for security. The conning position provides good vision and easy access for berthing when the skipper is operating single-handed. The electronics are the same as the fast adventure craft Excitor III, also operated by Fullers, as skippers may be asked to swap from boat to boat. This electronics package, supplied by Advance Trident Limited, this package includes a Simrad NX45 with a 12in multifunction display, plotter, sounder and radar with a Simrad Hi Speed GPS antenna and BR24 broadband radar scanner. The sounder is hooked up to a 600 watt 50/200kHz transducer. To ensure everyone else who needs to know can locate her at a moment's notice she is fitted with a Simrad NAIS 300 Black Box AIS transceiver. The ENGINEERING • Marine, Diesel & General Engineers • Aluminium & Steel Boat Builders "We can offer a 2000 hour warranty on remanufactured Gardner Engines on approved installation." Contact Dave Shaw regarding servicing or engine repower. NEW ZEALAND DISTRIBUTOR GARDNER DIESEL ENGINES Designer & builder of the new ferry PHONE 03 214 4278 120 EYE STREET, INVERCARGILL NZ WORKBOAT REVIEW 2012 49 VIP.WB12 VIP.S82