The Auckland builder of inflatable boats Aquapro International this week launched the first of a new range of America's Cup chase boats. The 14m RIB for Oracle Racing has a Genesis Marine hull built to an Aquapro design and is powered by Volvo diesels.
New magazine
D & B Publishing, the company
that produces Propeller magazine and Pacific Motor Yacht, has a new title in production. Pacific Yachting will be a coffee-table publication featuring cruising sailboats from 10m to 100m superyachts. First issue of the quarterly will be published in February.
Toyota halt
Toyota Marine Sports has stopped production at its Florida ski-boat factory to clear excess stock and has laid off staff for an indefinite period. Operations manager Bill Nitchern said the ski-boat sector had been severely hurt in Florida because of drought conditions which had limited boating in many areas.
Outboard launch
Bombardier used the Genoa International Boat Show to launch its 2002 Evinrude and Johnson outboards into the European market. The Evinrude models are from 75 to 250hp and the Johnson range is from 3.5 to 175hp. The new range will also be featured at the upcoming Athens, Barcelona and Paris boat shows.
WaterWatch
Labour Weekend means lots of competitive sailing out of their home waters for Auckland sailors and plenty of activity at home. Highlights on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday: North Island P-Class Championships at Muritai, Wellington; North Island Starling Championships at Heretaunga and Olympic classes at Waitangi.
Saturday: Summer cruising series, Race 1 (GHYC); Cruising weekend sailing for Richmond Yacht Club and Ponsonby Cruising Club; Cruising race to Mullet Bay (Victoria Cruising Club); Cruising race to Kawau (Weiti Boating Club).
Clubs and organisations planning activity in, on or under the water of either the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on 0800 80 60 40.
