While Adam was doing his thing, I was amassing all the bits and pieces that go into a boat. It's a real eye opener buying all this stuff! I'm sure the chandlery industry will have a celebration in my honour!!!
The goodies:
Im one of these blokes that likes things that work for me. This boat, starting as a clean slate, gave me the chance to get it exactly how I want it. Let's have a look at the fitout.
Stainless T top: I'm very fair skinned and having a top of some sort was essential. From my last 2 boats, I knew Dave Green (Greens Marine Stainless) was just the man to build it. And what a job he did! Wow, his creation MAKES this boat! Very functional too. Could not have been happier.
Upholstery: Rowland st Boat Trimmers were employed to make a canvas top for the canopy, clears to go around the console (I didn't replace the winscreen), padded combings, new bunk cushions and the ducky seat on the front of the console. Great job!
Electrics: I kept my NSS12 from the cruisy and picked up a NSS8 off Gumtree to act as sounder and GPS. There's a GME vhf radio, Lowrance Sonic Hun with 4 speakers, fresh water shower with 60l bladder, led lighting in the cabin, under the t top and under funnel lights all the way around. Robin from Small Craft Electrics did the complete rewire inc VSR switch for the twin batteries.
Misc: Rod holders are Reelax, as are the rather special scuppers. I haven't installed the flooring yet, but will this week. Its SeaDek foam sheeting in Grey Camo. The other thing missing, is seating. I had plans to get Greeny to build a stainless frame and put a bench seat on it, but through fitting out the boat, have figured out, that would restrict access to the cabin severely. I think I will eventually put in a pedestal seat for the skipper and a padded esky (moveable) for the crew.
Performance:
i can't say too much on this yet, as yesterday was the first test run. But from that , I can say this is a fantastic hull and I'm very very happy (and not a bit relieved!) Compared to the similar sized cruise craft, the Haines is more dynamic and sporty. It loved being offshore and wasn't scared of a bit of air! Great fun! I haven't calibratied the nmea2000 yet, but it's cruising about 22-23 kts offshore at 4600 rpm which from experience is well under 20l per hour. Combined with the new 250l, will mean no more jerries of bladder on long trips!
Speaking of trips, our first proper adventure is in 2 weeks time up at Breaksea. Say g'day if you're u that way!
If you've got any questions, I'm happy to answer them