Power To The Tinnies
Sydney Morning Herald
Friday April 24, 1992
Marine Power, better known for its Mercury, Mariner and Force outboards and MerCruiser marine engines, entered the boat marketing side of the industry two years ago with a range of fibreglass boats known as Bermuda Sportsboats.
Now the company has increased its involvement by introducing a four-boat range of aluminium craft ranging in size from 3.8 metres to 5.4 metres.
Two of the boats, the Islander and the Pro Fish, both utilise the same 4.75-metre hull.
The other two are the 5.4-metre cuddy cabin Blue Fin, aimed squarely at the sportfishing enthusiast, and the baby of the fleet, the 3.8-metre dinghy-style Trojan.
All are built by the Gold Coast-based firm Quintrex.
Marine Power's national marketing manager, Mr John Temple, said the introduction of aluminium boats did not signify any ambition by the company to"move into the boat building business".
"We're here to sell engines," he said. "Our major opposition owns its own fibreglass and aluminium ranges and I think it was a natural move that we should cover our own dealer needs by being in a position where we can offer a broader range."
Temple was referring to the Johnson/Evinrude distributor Outboard Marine Corporation (Australia), which owns Haines Hunter and Stacer Alloy Craft.
OMC, however, happily sells its boats to Marine Power dealers and has no qualms about Haines Hunter or Stacer boats being powered by Mercury, Mariner or Force engines.
The four Bermuda aluminium craft can be specified with a wide range of horsepower requirements and with either Mercury, Mariner or Force power.
Three of the craft, the Pro Fish, Islander and the Trojan, differ from other Quintrex models in choice of upholstery, fitout and, in some cases, even length and beam.
The Blue Fin, however, is identical to its Quintrex equivalent, differing only in the Bermuda decals on its hull sides.
Although rated to efficiently handle an engine of 100 hp, the Blue Fin I tested sported a 90 hp Mercury and performed admirably.
According to Marine Power's NSW manager, Ken Evans, it is just as efficient with as little as 70 hp.
It's a nice boat with a solid feel to it. The fact that it has been developed for the sportfishing enthusiast shows out clearly.
The cuddy cabin is roomy enough to stow gear away from the elements and the cockpit is spacious and uncluttered - just what the angler demands.
Stowage is ample, and includes a big bin in the centre of the cockpit with the capacity for a bait tank beneath the upholstered top.
Long side bins are well elevated along the cockpit and offer fishermen a handy brace to lean against while fighting a taut line.
The helm position is well placed and offers both comfort and security whether seated or standing.
Priced at $19,648, including a 70 hp outboard and a Brooker trailer, the Blue Fin represents outstanding value.
Another of the Bermuda tinnies which impressed was the 4.75-metre Islander, a runabout with a nicely flared bow and an outboard pod at the transom which adds to its roomy cockpit and delivers excellent planing characteristics.
The test boat sported a 50 hp engine and can handle 60 hp and 70 hp power with equal dexterity.
The well-planned fitout offers two pedestal seats forward, two upholstered rear seats with stowage beneath, a five-piece, tinted windscreen with a walk-through centre section, a practical split bowrail and dual aft boarding platforms either side of the engine.
The retail price is $17,371 and includes a 50hp engine and Brooker trailer
Utilising the same hull, the Pro Fish, like the Blue Fin, is directed solely at the fishing segment of the market.
It uses the popular centre console configuration. With a 60 hp engine it retails at $17,167, including the Brooker trailer.
The Trojan, smallest in the range, is a neat little craft and comes with an incredible 14 engine options. Marine Power claims it is the personification of the "classic, all-aluminium dinghy" built to heavy-duty specifications.
With a 9.9 hp Mercury outboard it retails at a highly competitive $4,314.
According to John Temple, the wide choice of engines and horsepower offered with the Bermuda range is a boon to buyers.
"Families have varied boating habits," he said. "While some users may head out to their favourite fishing spot with a minimal load, perhaps only two abroad, others may take along tackle and/or scuba diving equipment, food, drink, friends, a full complement of fuel and subsequently have totally different power requirements.
"With the Bermuda range, I believe we can offer the right mix to suit any application."
For further information on the range, contact Marine Power (02 821 3600) or dealers.
© 1992 Sydney Morning Herald
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