ARRIVALS
The IC-M33 represents a new industry benchmark in marine handheld radio technology. Introducing the world's first 5W VHF floating marine handheld. Loaded with advanced features, the IC-M33 boasts a waterproof submersible design and a high capacity lithium Ion battery that provides up to nine hours of use.
The Aqua Quake draining feature improves audio by removing water from the speaker grill.
Like all Icom radios, the IC-M33 is built in Japan with a rugged, die-cast aluminium chassis. The LCD display offers a large channel indicator and with the keypad is backlit. The IC-M33 can also be used with the optional battery case and waterproof floating speaker microphone. Options are available.
Available from most marine dealers at a RRP of $396.00.
Smartkat inflatable catamaran
Following the enormous success that Smartkat celebrated as a worldwide invention at the Interboot and Boat fairs in Germany, it is now on show for the first time in Australia. The Smartkat is a catamaran with inflatable hulls combining three important criteria: 1) Excellent sailing characteristics 2) Assembly and disassembly in just a few minutes 3) Low weight and small storage volume.
With a total weight of around 40 kg and packed into two bags, the 4.3 metre length boat can be stored in a cupboard, under a bed or in the corner of a cellar and comfortably transported by car to the shore by one person.
Depending on practice, the Smartkat is out of the bag and completely ready to sail within 15 to 20 minutes. No tools are required to do this and there are no loose parts that can get lost.
Resulting from the boat's special construction, very high stiffness to avoid twisting has been achieved despite the low weight. Alongside the high-performance rig (slatted main sail) this is the basis for the great sailing characteristics. This means, for example, that the Smartkat in trapeze can be sailed on one hull at high speed over long distances. If the wind speed indicator is reading zero, then the Smartkat acts as a perfect recreation and bathing island for the kids. And equipped with an optional motor, it's the ideal holiday partner for the entire family.
For more information at www.smartkat.com
Interphase forward-looking sonar
Interphase, a leader in affordable, phased array LCD sonars for the recreational marine market as well as the serious cruiser, sailor and fisherman, introduces the industry's first “black-box” forward looking sonar with both VGA and video outputs. The new SE-200B sonar engine adds vertical, horizontal and dual scanning sonar capability to today's popular multifunction and large panel displays and easily turns most video-capable chartplotters, radars, and other multifunctional displays into fully-featured forward-looking sonars.
Designed to work with video-enabled multifunction displays from companies such as Seiwa, Northstar, Simrad, Raymarine, Furuno, Garmin and Navman, the SE-200B model includes the phased array transducer(s), a small module that houses the sophisticated electronics, and a keypad which can be located close to a remote display.
Although small and lightweight, the Interphase sonar engine sports an impressive list of important features such as auto gain, auto range, keel offset, scan sector and more. For more information: www.coursemaster.com
The untold story of the tragic 1979 Fastnet R a c e
By nick Ward with Sinéad O?Brien In 1979 the world famous Fastnet yacht race began in perfect weather conditions, but within 48 hours the deadliest storm in the history of modern sailing struck off the south coast of Ireland. Touching the Void meets The Perfect Storm in this tragic and inspirational story of survival against all the odds. The experience affected Nick Ward so deeply, that for over 25 years his story has remained untold, until now. Nick Ward was taught to sail at the age of four. He lives in Hamble. Sinead O?Brien is an award-winning documentary maker and dramatist. She lives in Dublin.
Driza-Bone merino activ range
The original Driza-Bone waterproof coat fashioned out of recycled sails over 100 years ago has come a long way. Driza-Bone Activ, a subsidiary of Driza-Bone is pleased to announce a new unique range of high performance, ultra light and comfortable outdoor active wear: Driza-Bone Activ Merino. While people still seek the protection that Driza-Bone has forever provided them, these days they want a high-performance garment that breathes, is comfortable and easy to care for. No fibre can meet these demands quite like merino wool. Made from 100 per cent Australian natural merino wool, the new active wear range feels as soft as silk, breathes wonderfully, has natural stretch, UV protection, odour dispelling properties and water repellence. Its unique climate control properties in both hot and cold conditions are specially designed to keep the wearer comfortable and dry from the inside out. Available from all good outdoor stockists.
