VOLUME 48 - 2011 Fax: (772) 288-4993 • Website: www.americancustomyachts.com • E-mail: [email protected]AMERICAN CUSTOM YACHTS, INC. • 6800 S.W. JACK JAMES DRIVE • STUART, FL 34997 • (772) 221-9100 Patriot Press NEWS AND INFORMATION FROM AMERICAN CUSTOM YACHTS ACY Expands Alternative Energy Division Florida Governor Rick Scott Visits Stuart to Recognize Company’s Efforts Keep up with the latest information from ACY at www.americancustomyachts.com. 1 On April 28, Florida Governor Rick Scott traveled to Stuart to support an announcement by ACY affiliate American Energy Innovations (AEI) regarding the company’s plans to expand its Martin County turbine blade manufacturing plant, bringing many needed jobs to the area. Joined by representatives from Enterprise Florida and The Business Development Board of Martin County, AEI unveiled its expansion plans to over 100 community leaders and members of the media who gathered at the Wolf Technology Center on the campus of Indian River State College. Details of the company’s expansion include the addition of a state-of-the- art manufacturing facility housed on American Custom Yachts’ 63-acre site. The new facility will allow AEI to increase its production to meet the growing demand for its unique single piece turbine blades used to capture wind and water energy. Joining Scott in congratulating AEI was U.S. Congressman Tom Rooney, as well as members of the Martin County Board of County Commissioners and representatives from the Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce. For additional information go to www.americanei.com. Florida Governor Rick Scott made a special trip to Stuart on April 28 to congratulate American Energy Innovations on their upcoming expansion plans. Governor Scott gathers with principals of American Energy Innovations (L-R): AEI Controller Ed Kelley, AEI Managing Partner Philip Catsman, Scott and AEI President Dominick LaCombe. Introducing American Canvas and Interiors The American Family of Companies is pleased to announce the expansion of its canvas and upholstery facility under a new name – American Canvas and Interiors. From custom bridge enclosures to boat covers, sofas, cushions, headliners and more, American Canvas and Interiors (ACI) offers complete marine canvas and upholstery services, as well as a full range of residential, commercial, aviation and motor coach upholstery solutions. ACI prides itself on attention to detail and providing the finest craftsmanship in the industry. ACI creates custom patterns for every installation, precisely measuring and cutting each piece for a perfect fit. Canvas is sewn with traditional binding or clean hems for a more visually appealing look based upon each customer’s needs. ACI uses only the finest canvas and materials, such as Strataglass vinyl curtains, Solarfix threads, Sunbrella and Ultraleather fabrics, Dry Fast open-cell foam and top grade closed-cell foam. For more information, call (772) 221-9100 or visit ACI’s website and photo gallery at www.americancanvasandinteriors.com. Director of operations Cullen Lowery brings over 20 years of experience in the canvas and upholstery industry. ACI operates out of a well-equipped canvas shop adjacent to American Custom Yachts’ 63-acre marine service facility.
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VOLU
ME 48 - 2011
Fax: (772) 288-4993 • Website: www.americancustomyachts.com • E-mail: [email protected] CUSTOM YACHTS, INC. • 6800 S.W. JACK JAMES DRIVE • STUART, FL 34997 • (772) 221-9100
Patriot PressNE WS AND INFORMATION FROM AMERICAN CUSTOM YACHTS
ACY Expands Alternative Energy DivisionFlorida Governor Rick Scott Visits Stuart to Recognize Company’s Efforts
Keep up with the latest information from ACY at www.americancustomyachts.com. 1
On April 28, Florida Governor Rick Scott traveled to Stuart to support an announcement by ACY affiliate American Energy Innovations (AEI) regarding the company’s plans to expand its Martin County turbine blade manufacturing plant, bringing many needed jobs to the area.
Joined by representatives from Enterprise Florida and The Business Development Board of Martin County, AEI unveiled its expansion plans to over 100 community leaders and members of the media who gathered at the Wolf Technology Center on the campus of Indian River State College.
Details of the company’s expansion include the addition of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility housed on American Custom Yachts’ 63-acre site. The
new facility will allow AEI to increase its production to meet the growing demand for its unique single piece turbine blades used to capture wind and water energy.
Joining Scott in congratulating AEI was U.S. Congressman Tom Rooney, as well as members of the Martin County Board of County Commissioners and representatives from the Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce. For additional information go to www.americanei.com.
Florida Governor Rick Scott made a special trip to Stuart on April 28 to congratulate American Energy Innovations on their upcoming expansion plans. Governor Scott gathers with principals of American
Energy Innovations (L-R): AEI Controller Ed Kelley, AEI Managing Partner Philip Catsman, Scott and AEI President Dominick LaCombe.
Introducing American Canvas and InteriorsThe American Family of Companies is pleased to announce the expansion of its canvas and upholstery facility under a new name – American Canvas and Interiors.
From custom bridge enclosures to boat covers, sofas, cushions, headliners and more, American Canvas and Interiors (ACI) offers complete marine canvas and upholstery services, as well as a full range of residential, commercial, aviation and motor coach upholstery solutions. ACI prides itself on attention to detail and providing the finest craftsmanship in the industry.
ACI creates custom patterns for every installation, precisely measuring and cutting each piece for a perfect fit. Canvas is sewn with traditional binding or clean hems for a more visually appealing look based upon each customer’s needs. ACI uses only the finest canvas and materials, such as Strataglass vinyl curtains, Solarfix threads, Sunbrella and
Ultraleather fabrics, Dry Fast open-cell foam and top grade closed-cell foam.
For more information, call (772) 221-9100 or visit ACI’s website and photo gallery at www.americancanvasandinteriors.com.
Director of operations Cullen Lowery brings over 20 years of experience in the canvas and upholstery industry.
ACI operates out of a well-equipped canvas shop adjacent to American Custom Yachts’ 63-acre marine service facility.
Vessel SpotlightSince June 2001, the 72’ ACY DON TÉO has logged over 27,000 nautical miles traveling and fishing the Atlantic, Caribbean and Pacific Oceans. With just short of 5,000 hours on the main engines and 3,800 hours on the generators, she has given her owner ten years of virtually problem free performance – a testament to the quality of the boats built
at American Custom Yachts. While meticulous routine maintenance is performed on a regular basis, her exterior paint, interior finish and extensive mechanical systems are, for the most part, original.
Key notes of our many voyages from Ft. Lauderdale include two trips to St. Thomas and the British Virgin Islands, eight trips to the Yucatan Peninsula, two trips to Panama and Costa Rica, four Panama Canal transits and 24 trips to the Bahamas.
The boat’s owners and guests have caught approximately 1,000 billfish and over a thousand combined pounds of dolphin, wahoo and tuna during our travels. A few highlights include a 600-pound black marlin in Piñas Bay, Panama; a 428-pound blue marlin in Rum Cay, Bahamas; multiple grand slams in Costa Rica and Mexico; and annual average catches of 100-plus sails in Isla Mujeres and Puerto Aventuras, Mexico.
DON TÉO is presently in the yard at ACY for her annual haul-out and routine maintenance. Our future plans are to return to Mexico and the Pacific, and destinations unknown... for at least another ten years.
DON TÉO Turns Ten
by Captain Dean Adler
Long-time DON TÉO mate Jason Cravero wires yet another blue marlin.
Affiliates Team Up for SEA PAVER MakeoverACY teamed up with affiliates IMS American Marine Electronics and American Canvas and Interiors (ACI) to perform an extreme makeover on the 64’ Spencer SEA PAVER under the watchful eye of Captain Ron Frick.
Exterior modifications include a new teak cockpit, new covering boards, a bottom job and complete repaint.
Interior upgrades include the fabrication and installation of a new galley top and new window valences – all matching the boat’s existing cherry veneer. ACY also fabricated a new starboard salon loveseat and installed new bar stools with satin nickel-plated pedestals. The galley seating transformation was made complete with new
upholstery by ACI. Additional interior upgrades included the installation of a new washer/dryer, air conditioning system maintenance and miscellaneous varnish work. Final interior touches were provided by IMS American, who teamed up with ACY’s carpenters to install a drop-down 40” Samsung LED TV in the salon, along with a Klipsch 5.1 in-ceiling speaker system. IMS also added a Sony Blu-ray player in
the salon and reconfigured the A/V components in both the salon and master stateroom to play on Universal remotes.
ACY and IMS continued their mastery on the bridge, refitting the helm to accommodate a new Furuno navigation package, including two 12” NavNet 3D displays, a 25 kW NavNet 3D radar, a 2 kW echo sounder and a Class B AIS. A Fusion 12-volt marine stereo system with radio, CD player and iPod was also installed, along with Clarion bridge and cockpit speakers. A pair of Standard Horizon VHF radios completed the package.
“The crew at American is extremely talented,” said Frick. “We are ecstatic about the work. As far as boatyard experiences go, this is as good as it gets.”
A new navigation system by IMS American graces the helm and bridge of 76’ Queenship motoryacht DURAND MARIE. The lower helm console features twin 15” KEP Pilot House LCD monitors, a Furuno 12 kW digital HD radar, a Furuno FI-50 wind display and a Sirius weather system. Furuno NavNet 12” 3D multi-displays occupy both stations, offering full redundancy. A pair of Icom 604 VHF radios completes the installation.
New Nav System Graces DURAND MARIE
BOOMER Gets A/V UpgradeThe 76’ Whiticar BOOMER now receives crystal clear HD programming thanks to an audio-video system upgrade by IMS American Marine Electronics. Following interior modifications by ACY to accommodate new components, IMS installed a Sony Blu-ray player and a 40” Samsung drop-down TV in the sky bridge, along with a 32” Samsung TV housed in the galley cabinet. The project was performed under the careful guidance of Captain Scott Mantz.
IMS American Marine Electronics and Bausch-American Towers (BAT) combined their talents yet again with the installation of a sophisticated navigation system and unique custom half tower on the 95’ Jim Smith MARLENA.
Offering total redundancy between the main helm and sky bridge, razor-sharp navigation images are provided by four KEP glass bridge displays on the helm and two KEP 15” Sunlight LCD monitors on the bridge. Both stations feature KEP video distribution control
monitors allowing for fully interchangeable images on any monitor. The package is driven by a KEP Leviathan computer navigation system. Furuno NavNet components include a 3D black box MFD/chartplotter, a 3D digital UHD 12 kW radar and a 25 kW sounder. Additional components by Furuno include a 25 kW black box radar and an AIS transponder with display. A Garmin GPSMAP chartplotter and a Simrad autopilot complete the navigation installation. Satellite communications are provided by a KVH Fleet Broadband 250 TracPhone. KVH also provided an all-inclusive TracVision satellite TV system with a Tri-Americas package allowing for simultaneous reception of DIRECTV and GLA (Galaxy Latin America) programming. Additional components include an ICOM 604 VHF radio, a KEP fish camera and Elbex closed-circuit weatherproof globe cameras in the cockpit and engine room.
MARLENA’s BAT tower package includes a custom half-tower with integrated arch and safety rails on three levels – all custom-painted to match the boat. A lightweight resin-infused hard top houses LED spreader and dome lights, recessed teaser reels and an inverted radio box.
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Vessel Spotlight
When it came to selecting a winning team to outfit his new 46’ Jarrett Bay sportfisherman PERSISTENCE with a cutting-edge tower and electronics package, NASCAR great Jeff Burton selected industry leaders Bausch-American Towers (BAT) and IMS American Marine Electronics.
The eye-catching BAT half tower features a custom bridge rail with rod holders and a lightweight, resin-infused hard top. The custom-molded hard top is outfitted with overhead LED tri-color dome lights and low-voltage LED spreader lights, along with recessed teaser reels and molded running lights in keeping with the vessel’s clean, aerodynamic lines.
A state-of-the art electronics package was installed at the IMS Beaufort, NC facility. The package includes dual 15” KEP glass bridge displays, Furuno navigation components and a Sirius satellite weather receiver. Satellite TV is provided by a KVH TracVision system and DIRECTV HD receiver with an infrared remote control. Additional components include an Icom VHF radio, a Comrod 16’ Rupp ready antenna, a FLIR Navigator II night vision camera, an ACR 24 V remote controlled searchlight and a Fusion marine stereo system with iPod dock and 6.5” two-way speakers.
For complete details of the Jeff Burton Project, go to www.jarrettbay.com/carolina-construction/custom-yachts/hull-57.
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KEP Marine recently made a quantum leap in marine monitor technology by introducing dual-touch control technology to its new generation of glass bridge displays. Available in 15, 17 and 19-inch sizes, the new KEP dual-touch displays offer operations similar to a smart phone, letting users expand, contract and rotate images with the control of two fingers.
The new KEP dual-touch screens are compatible with Windows 7, as well as Nobeltec Time Zero Trident and Furuno Max Sea navigation software. Available in both sunlight readable and pilot house models, KEP glass bridge displays offer advanced LCD technology creating extremely vivid images, even in harsh sunlight – as well as dimmable “red mode” viewing, eliminating windshield glare at night. KEP dual-touch monitors can communicate remotely with any RS-232 control system, such as Crestron and AMX.
In addition to the latest in monitor technology, KEP offers a wide array of advanced marine electronic solutions, including monitor management interfaces, marine computers (black box), multimedia systems, vessel monitoring software, XM weather and navigation software, and underwater LED lights for boats and docks. The company recently celebrated its 50th year in the industry. For more information, visit www.kepmarine.com.
Known worldwide for their superior mobile satellite TV and communications systems, KVH gives boaters the ability to watch TV, talk on the phone, or surf the Internet anywhere they go with the cutting -edge technology of TracVision® and TracPhone®.
KVH’s TracVision marine satellite TV, the 13-time winner of NMEA’s Best Marine Entertainment Award, allows users to enjoy satellite TV when cruising, at anchor, or at the dock. TracVision offers outstanding coverage and reception, providing a front row seat for hundreds of channels of HDTV and standard-definition programming, satellite music and more. The TracVision M-series systems are perfect for any vessel 20 feet and longer. For HDTV users, the 24” TracVision HD7 system provides the ultimate solution with pinpoint tracking of DIRECTV Ka- and Ku-band satellites, ideal for digital video recording. Add KVH’s exclusive Tri-Americas LNB to a TracVision M5, M7 or HD7 system and enjoy the convenience of seamlessly switching between DIRECTV North America and DIRECTV Latin America (serving the Caribbean, Central and South America) without ever changing hardware or removing the dome.
KVH offers the ideal way to stay connected with family and friends while at sea via the Internet, e-mail, or telephone utilizing KVH’s mini-VSAT Broadbandsm network – the next generation in maritime satellite communications.
Together with the 24” TracPhone V7 or 14.5” TracPhone V3, KVH offers a true end-to-end solution, delivering high quality, always-on broadband data connections, multiple voice telephone lines and dramatically
reduced service costs. The KVH mini-VSAT Broadband is widely used for SATCOM services on U.S. Coast Guard vessels.
KVH’s high-performance TracVision and TracPhone systems can be easily mounted on any deckhouse, hard top or tuna tower. For additional information,
This 39’ Jupiter received a BAT tuna tower and hard top package with custom dome lights and LED spreader lights.
A custom BAT hard top with built-in molded hand rails was installed on this 40’ Cabo.
BAT performed a full tower conversion on this 45’ Cabo, incorporating the vessel’s original arch and hard top.
The 40’ Cabo ZEUS came to BAT for an extensive full tower package. Details include a customized control box fabricated to fit Zeus vessel controls, a pair of hydraulic RUPP Power Riggers, and a custom hard top with recessed teaser reels and built-in rod storage.
BAT performed a tower conversion on the 33’ Grady White DEBRA LYNN, adding an upper section to the existing factory half tower.
BAT fabricated safety rails on the 61’ Trumpy motoryacht WASHINGTONIAN, built in 1939 and featured in the May issue of Southern Boating magazine.
Strataglass – The Clear Choice for Every Enclosure
Superior Night Vision Solutions from FLIR
Product Profile
M-Series night vision camera
First Mate hand-held night vision camera
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Endorsed by both American Canvas and Interiors and Bausch-American Towers, Strataglass is a premium, highly-flexible coated vinyl sheet used primarily for the fabrication of curtains on bridge enclosures. Utilizing a proprietary production process, Strataglass is uniquely engineered to resist the damaging effects of the sun, while blocking out a wide spectrum of UV rays. Strataglass is also uniquely manufactured to withstand the harmful effects of environmental fallout and scratching from handling.
Introduced in 1994, Strataglass is produced in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and distributed by the 13 largest canvas distributors in the U.S., as well as in Canada, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Australia, Japan and Kuwait.
While regular vinyl tends to have a blue or gray haziness which is instantly visible, Strataglass is known for its near-perfect visual clarity. A scratch-resistant coating on Strataglass prevents the development of fine lines from washing, drying and abrasion from roll-up straps. Regular vinyl can be scratched by a simple paper towel. The appearance of gray streaks is also prevalent on many vinyl curtains, resulting from runoff points and brass grommets. The coating on Strataglass blocks these elements from etching into the surface of the vinyl. Even overspray can be carefully cleaned off using lacquer thinner. The protective coating on Strataglass is also highly
resistant to today’s harsh environment, preventing fallout from industrial plants, as well as auto and jet exhaust and acid rain from leaching into the vinyl and creating spotting, hazing and discoloration. Strataglass is easily maintained with mild soap and water or vinegar and water, along with periodic exterior waxing.
Thanks to the many benefits offered by Strataglass, boat owners do not need to replace their curtains as often. When durability, clarity and lack of distortion are demanded, Strataglass is the clear choice. For more information, go to www.strataglass.com.
More vessels have put to sea with FLIR thermal imaging systems onboard than any other manufacturer in the world. FLIR thermal imagers create black and white images from heat, not light, so they work better at night allowing boaters to boat with confidence at any hour.
FLIR’s M-Series thermal cameras give boaters clear visibility even in total darkness. With four times the resolution and twice the range of competitive systems, M-Series cameras allow boaters to clearly see navigation hazards like boats, channel markers, outcroppings and people from a great distance. The M-Series design draws on FLIR’s 25 years of experience in building combat-proven airborne and
maritime thermal imagers for the military, coast guards and governmental agencies around the world. If you want to use a tougher, better-performing FLIR, you’ll have to
join the Special Forces!
First Mate is the world’s first line of affordable, waterproof, handheld high-performance thermal night vision cameras, giving
boaters on every type of vessel the power to see better and farther than any other night vision
technology available. Built to survive the most demanding environmental conditions, the First Mate is fully submersible, runs for over five hours on a single battery charge and provides more than 120 hours of standby battery life. First Mate is the perfect solution for any vessel.
For information on the complete line of FLIR thermal imaging devices, visit www.flir.com/maritime.
The 112’ Hatteras tri-deck motoryacht FAR NIENTE came to ACY for a full paint and bottom job, along with interior modification including new teak steps and a refitted spiral staircase. ACY also installed underwater lights and modified the vessel’s mast to accommodate new lights and a Satcom upgrade by IMS American.
ACY refitted the 37’ Legend Express LIGHTLY SALTED with a new Yamaha triple 300 HP outboard power package, along with a complete electrical system upgrade including an E-Flex electrical command module. The cockpit and non-skid areas were repainted, along with the swim platform and engine mounts. New upper and lower console covers were provided by American Canvas and Interiors.
The 70’ Hatteras motoryacht WILLOWAY visited ACY for a full topside paint job and running gear reconditioning.
PATSEA VII, an 86’ Jim Smith, returned to ACY for a bottom job and fresh PropSpeed application to its running gear. Additional work included painting the aft deck overhead and applying a new transom clear coat.
GODSPEED, a 52’ motoryacht built by Hunt Yachts, received a complete hull paint, along with minor teak repairs, running gear maintenance and new rudder seals.
ACY completed a checklist of general maintenance items on the 71’ custom motoryacht NIKITA in preparation for the vessel’s extended voyage to Europe. Included in the work was a complete pressure cleaning of the fuel tanks, transmission service and an alignment of the driveline and running gear. American Canvas and Interiors also fabricated a new aft table cover. The vessel will sail from Florida to Southampton, England, then up the west coast of Ireland to Scotland, before continuing on to Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany and Holland – a total of over 4,500 miles. The 2012 itinerary includes stops in France, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar and Malta. Bon voyage!
Keep up with the latest information from ACY at www.americancustomyachts.com. 9
Global Ocean Security Technologies (GOST), formerly Paradox Marine, offers state-of-the-art wireless security systems, vessel monitoring, satellite tracking, surveillance, acoustic deterrents and cloaking systems for any size vessel – from tenders to ships.
GOST’s line of contact sensors, motion detectors and security products are designed to protect against theft, fire, smoke, flooding, low voltage, loss of shore power and intrusion. GOST security systems combine sensors, sirens, acoustic sound barriers and flashing lights designed to chase off intruders and prevent theft before it happens.
The award winning GOST Nav-Tracker system has assisted in the successful recovery of numerous vessels utilizing the same two-way Inmarsat satellite technology used by the U.S. Department of Defense to track vessels. The Nav-Tracker system offers complete global coverage (with the exception of the extreme north and south poles) and is mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to have 99.99% reliability. GOST’s advanced vessel monitoring solutions enable boat owners to track vessel location and receive status reports via the Internet around the clock. Up-to-date vessel location is provided on GOST’s new fourth generation satellite tracking website. The site is embedded with Google and Bing maps and satellite imagery, and can be accessed from anywhere in the world via the Internet. GOST recently received a medal of recognition from the U.S. Coast Guard for their assistance in vessel recovery.
The Marine Magellan Insight Boat Alarm and Monitoring System gives boat owner’s worldwide updates on their vessel’s security, sending instant reports via voice, e-mail or text messages. A secure personal web page shows vessel status, alarm history and event locations. Owners can set safety zone boundaries and even control AC/DC accessories directly from their computer or smart phone. Customized systems, options and devices can be seamlessly integrated to meet most international marine security requirements.
As evidenced by its vast range of innovative products and ongoing commitment to research and development, GOST is uniquely poised to become the dominant provider of marine security, monitoring, tracking and surveillance worldwide. For more information, go to www.gostglobal.com.
Since 2008, Seakeeper has been revolutionizing the way people boat. Simply put, they build devices that prevent vessels from rolling. It’s hard to imagine how a spinning wheel inside a beach ball-size orb can do that, but the basics are this: a flywheel spins at extremely high speeds within a vacuum chamber, generating angular momentum or righting force (gyro horsepower). When installed in a boat hull, that force essentially holds a vessel in place. This can mean the difference between rocking in heavy seas or feeling like it is flat calm.
Seakeeper gyros are completely internal and compact, with several models available accommodating vessels from 35 to 90 tons (typically 40 to 120 feet) and multiple units can be installed on larger vessels. They require very low power, making them ideal for any refit project. Seakeeper’s global installation network is familiar with all vessel styles and layouts, ensuring a correct fit based upon a boat’s size and displacement.
The U.S. Navy is installing Seakeeper gyros on a number of its vessels, including its 110-foot torpedo recovery ships. For the Navy, it’s a no brainer – a comfortable crew is a safe and productive crew.
Winner of the recent 2011 American Superyacht Forum Innovation Award, Seakeeper reports installations are at an all-time high. Demand for internal stabilization continues to grow in all segments of the market, with one of the busiest being the sportfishing sector. Seakeeper is currently running promotions at several major big game fishing tournaments, offering demonstrations and free tournament entries with purchase.
American Custom Yachts is a certified Seakeeper installation facility. We are happy to provide an estimate to anyone interested in stabilizing their boat. For more information visit www.seakeeper.com.
Product Profile Eco Strip Your Hull Before You Paint
New Construction UpdateACY90 Nears Home Stretch
Trust Your Boat To Sea HawkFollowing the complete removal of its tin-based bottom coating by Eco Strip, the 110’ Delta motoryacht INTREPID received a new application of Sea Hawk Tuff Stuff high–build epoxy primer and Biocop TF anti-fouling paint.
From premium bottom paint and antifouling coatings to top quality marine primers and specialty products, Sea Hawk is a trusted name at ACY. Each product is stringently tested and formulated for ease of application and performance to meet specific conditions. Popular Sea Hawk products include: Tuff Stuff – an extremely high-build two-part epoxy primer that dries fast, enabling application of a complete barrier system and bottom paint in just two days; Biocop TF – developed as an alternative to tin-based antifouling paints to protect against the harshest marine environments and provide maximum protection; and Smart Solution – the next generation of environmentally-friendly antifouling technology, engineered to create a slick film that encapsulates the hull, providing enhanced speed and premium performance against growth. For more information, go to www.seahawkpaints.com.
When it comes to proper hull preparation prior to repainting, ACY customers rely on the coating removal specialists at Eco Strip. Employing a unique low-pressure stripping method that utilizes hot water and volcanic pumice applied through a finely-tuned nozzle, Eco Strip is capable of completely removing surface coatings on any size vessel, right down to the bare hull.
Dedicated to protecting the environment, Eco Strip erects a full enclosure with a filtration system around every boat to collect as much debris as possible. When the job is complete, the enclosure is removed and any remaining debris is properly disposed of by use of an industrial vacuum. After cleanup, Eco Strip thoroughly washes the boat’s sides and bottom, leaving the boat ready to paint.
With fuel prices continuing to rise, now is an excellent time to remove the extra weight of multiple coats of bottom paint and running gear build-up. Eco Strip is a simple solution to increase your vessel’s performance and fuel economy. To learn more about Eco Strip, go to www.ecostripusa.com.
Construction is nearing completion on the highly anticipated new ACY90 sportfisherman as the boat is prepped for the paint bay. The installation of engines and running gear is complete, and the plumbing, electrical and air conditioning systems are in their final stages. The deck house has been affixed, and the salon furniture and cabinetry are being finalized for veneer, while the lower deck receives its final coats of varnish. The installation of audio-video components, headliner and interior upholstery will follow. The bridge is being dry-fitted for navigation gear. A custom tower from Bausch-American Towers awaits installation upon exit from the paint bay, along with final electronics from IMS American.
Team CHACH celebrated a fantastic day of fishing on June 13, releasing seven Atlantic blue marlin and one white marlin.
Photo by Dino Chouest
Photo by Dino Chouest
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Following “Ask the Yacht Doctor” features in volumes 46 and 47 of American Patriot Press regarding long-range vessel towing techniques, we thought it would only be fitting to share some of the fruits of the labor. FREEDOM mate Jimmy Brasher recently returned from an extended trip to Tahiti assisting in the transport of the 80’ PATRIOT, towed behind its mother ship, the 160’ TRAILBLAZER. Departing from Panama City, Panama, PATRIOT spent 20 days at sea en route to Nuka Hiva, Marquesas, and then another five days to Papeete, Tahiti. Excellent fishing helped the crew pass the time under tow. From there, the boats traveled to Moorea and Bora Bora and other distant ports of call. Joining Jimmy for the trip were Captain Terry Stansel, Bonny Stansel, Matt Coppoletta and Mike Calabrese. Thanks for the great photos, Jimmy.
CHACH owner Damon Chouest reports red hot blue marlin fishing in St. Thomas this year. “Our team of Captain Dave Dalfo, Matt Coppoletta and I have released 100 Atlantic blue marlin during our 12 months fishing together,” writes Chouest. “Out of 21.5 days this season, we have released 51 Atlantic blue marlin so far, highlighted by a great day on June 13 where we went 7 for 10 on blues and 1 for 3 on whites with just the three of us on board.”
To date, Damon has recorded 615 Atlantic blue marlin releases over his lifetime, edging ever closer to his goal of 1,000 releases.
PERMIT NO. 19466800 S.W. Jack James Drive · Stuart, FL 34997
COMING IN OUR NEXT ISSUE MEET AMERICAN MARKETING GROUP
Design & Production by AMG Creative
Managing Editor .....................................................Chris ShultzArt & Editorial Director ............................ Jennifer LaCombeEditorial Support .............................................Monica FalgoutPhotography ............................................................Chris Shultz
Q: I am planning an extended fishing trip over the summer and hope to explore some uncharted fishing grounds. While my boat carries over 1,500 gallons of fuel, I hate to limit my plans due to fuel capacity. I know there are auxiliary fuel tanks available that can be stored either above or below deck. Do you have any suggestions on what product would best meet my needs?
A: A long-range fuel bladder may be just the thing to help get you there. The Yacht Doctors have received excellent feedback from ACY customers that have used
collapsible fuel bladders manufactured by Aero-Tec Laboratories (ATL). ATL’s new FueLocker is an on-deck solution available in standard sizes ranging from 50 to 500 gallons or custom-sized to meet any need. If deck space is limited, ATL also produces collapsible bladders made to fit in live wells, fish boxes and storage compartments.
The 65-foot ACY FREEDOM uses a 250-gallon ATL fuel bladder that fits snugly in a below-deck fish box. Captain Albert Miller reports that the bladder extends the vessel’s range by about 100 miles at cruise and up to 250 miles at trolling speed. “Fuel bladders are great to get to faraway tournaments, like Bermuda, or to extend your range on a long trip,” he said. “We like the ease of having our extra fuel stored below deck, and I’ve had great success with on-deck fuel lockers as well. In either case, we recommend pumping the extra fuel into the main tanks as soon as possible to free up space.”
For additional information, call (800) 526-5330 (USA) / (201) 825-1400 (outside USA), e-mail [email protected], or visit www.atlinc.com/rangeextender.html.
ATL collapsible fuel lockers can be easily secured to cockpit decks or custom fitted to stow away in below-deck compartments.
Don’t wait until the last minute to store your boat in the threat of a hurricane. Save money and give yourself peace of mind by storing early and taking
advantage of ACY’s seasonal storage rates. We can accommodate vessels up to 120 feet in length, including trailer boats, at our secure location on the Okeechobee Waterway. Call us today at (772) 221-9100 to make arrangements.
Seasonal Storage – $8.50 per foot/month
Trailer Boat Storage – $1.50 per foot/month
*Prices are subject to change without notice. Visit www.americancustomyachts.com to download a copy of ACY’s Hurricane/Disaster Contingency Action Plan and Fee Schedule.
Store Early Before the Threat
of a Hurricane
Editor’s Box
Keep up with the latest information from ACY at www.americancustomyachts.com. 12
