vol.6 iss.1 - Grand Banks Yachts

vol.6 iss.1
spray
THE MAGAZINE FOR GRAND BANKS OWNERS & ENTHUSIASTS
50
G R A N D
B A N K S
spray
On the Cover
>
The fabulous 59 Aleutian RP in Key Largo, Florida.
SPRAY SUBMISSIONS
O
15
contents
4]
Scuttlebut
Check in on the latest news and happenings.
12]
ver the coming few weeks, we will be
consumed with the pre-flight stages of
the greatest organized cruise in Grand
Banks history. Grand Tour 2006 begins in mid-May,
kicking off on Pender Island, British Columbia, just
after the Puget Sound ownerʼs rendezvous. We have
a number of eager participants as well as a stable
of wonderful sponsors who are as excited about the
cruise as we are. There are precious few spots remaining, so call today if you are interested in taking a GB
up the Inside Passage to southeast Alaska (p.21).
You may have noticed that Spray put on a little winter
weight — an extra 12 pages, to be exact. This is to aid
in commemorating our 50th Anniversary, and is meant
to acknowledge the many thousands of wonderful
Grand Banks owners and aficionados who cruise the
waters from Dubai to the Dominican Republic. Without
you over the past five decades, we would not have
a Spray to publish and no ownerʼs stories to bandy
about on coffee tables far and wide.
Mixed in with all the important news items, great new
models, and helpful tips contained in this issue is a
special treat: the story of a 46EU called Indaba. The
owners, charming as they are passionate, make for
as perfect a statement of honesty and devotion as you
could find within the Grand Banks community (p.12).
Yachting: The Sun Rises on ʻIndabaʼ
Celebrating a special 46EU with new GB owners,
Maurice Roper and Heather Allan.
16]
}
New Models
Two stunning new additions to the Eastbay and Aleutian Series.
Welcome the all-new 39 Eastbay SX and 59 Aleutian RP.
18]
For our new segment, From the Yard (p.28), GBʼs
Service Manager, Larry Crouch, offers a multiple-part
series on maintenance, safety, and other advice for
owning and loving your GB. I hope you find his words
helpful and sage — and if you have an interest in any
other subject, please write to me with topic ideas.
Powering the Jean Anne
As always we hope you enjoy this issue.
Soundings contributing writer and 42 owner, John Love, writes
about his new ship, a 577-foot vehicle transport freighter.
21]
p18
This 50th Anniversary cruise to Alaska is kicking into high gear,
so check out the latest announcements in our three-page update.
SECTIONS
8] Showstoppers
10] Currents
25] Profile: Ramsey
28] From the Yard
GB HEADQUARTERS
Grand Banks Yachts Pte. Ltd.
29 Loyang Crescent
Singapore 509015
+65 6545-2929
Phone:
+65 6543-0029
Fax:
U.S. HEADQUARTERS
Grand Banks Yachts
2100 Westlake Ave. N. Ste. 107
Seattle, WA 98109 USA
(206) 352-0116
Phone:
(206) 352-1711
Fax:
EAST COAST SALES/SERVICE
Two Marina Plaza
Goat Island
Newport, RI 02840 USA
(401) 848-7550
Phone:
(401) 848-7551
Fax:
SOUTH, WEST SALES/SERVICE
3027 Marina Bay Dr. Ste. 110
League City, TX 77573 USA
(512) 288-5518
Phone:
(281) 754-4125
Fax:
EUROPE SALES
Port de La Napoule
06210 La Napoule, France
+33 (0) 4-93-90-36-74
Phone:
+33 (0) 4-93-49-91-51
Fax:
+33 (0) 6-78-78-05-34
Mobile:
OCEANIA SALES
PO Box 1644 Southport
Queensland 4215, Australia
0414 737 484
Mobile:
IDD: +61 414 737 484
(07) 5504 6992
Phone:
IDD: +61 7 5504 6992
Best regards and happy cruising,
Grand Tour 2006 Update
Grand Banks Yachts
c/o Jonathan Cooper
2100 Westlake Ave. N. Ste. 107
Seattle, WA 98109 USA
Email: jonathanc@grandbanks.com
Phone: (206) 352-0116 x14
Jonathan Cooper
Editor
30] Beachcombing
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
spray volume 6 issue 1
3
scuttlebut
T
Mr. Brown Joins GB
Down Under
o better support the growing market for Grand Banks
down under, the company has appointed a new Regional Sales Manager for Australia, New Zealand,
and the South Pacific. Peter Brown brings considerable
expertise to the position, with a proven record of success
in the industry as well as twenty years experience at the
helm of various Grand Banks models.
GB Reunion on the Chesapeake
> A SHIPʼS C APTAIN RE U N I T E S WI T H A N O L D F R I E N D
“To see this beautiful boat once again brings back so many memories for me. I spent so much time with my father on board, it truly
is my childhood. Thanks for keeping her so beautiful.”
These words were penned in the logbook of Tortuga by Chris
Ramoz during last yearʼs Chesapeake Bay Grand Banks Ownersʼ Association Rendezvous in St. Michaels, MD. Tortuga had
been moored across from the marinaʼs face dock since her current owners, Bruce and Eleanor Krause, brought the GB32 to St.
Michaels earlier that day. It was a beautiful day, and members
were relaxing on their boats before the association dinner later
that evening.
Before even the first line was made fast, however, our captain
— the aforementioned Chris Ramoz — was off the Lady K, across
the dock and in the cockpit of Tortuga (which now seemed quite
diminutive in the shadow of the megayacht).
Ramoz wasnʼt there to get a view of his own handiwork. He had
spotted a long lost friend, a treasure of his boyhood. As he quickly
explained to the Krauses, Tortuga was once owned by his father,
George, and the two had spent several wonderful summers cruising the waters around their home in Michigan. Now Ramoz was
the captain aboard a renowned luxury yacht that cruised exotic
ports far and near.
He couldnʼt believe the turn of fate that reunited them some 15
years and hundreds of miles away, and Ramoz was soon calling
Dad from his mobile phone: “Guess where Iʼm standing!”
Early in his career, Peter played a key role in developing
a powerful dealer network for Telwater. He was instrumental in recruiting dealers and developing their marketing strategies which helped grow sales by over four hundred percent. In 2004, he left Telwater to accept a new
challenge with Honda Marine, where he managed their
dealer network throughout Queensland.
“Peterʼs track record speaks volumes about his abilities,”
says Neil McCurdy, Vice President of Sales at Grand
Banks. “While Grand Banks may seem a different class
of product for him, he has first-hand experience with the
brand and clearly understands the challenges dealers
face, as well as the expectations of discerning consumers.
He also knows the responsibility that goes with delivering
the high quality boats we strive to build for our customers
in Australia, and overseas.”
Peter is based at Grand Banksʼ offices on the Gold Coast,
Queensland. His work as Regional Sales Manager extends far across the territory, however, including dealership opportunities in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide
and New Zealand.
> THE NMMA AND BOATS.COM HON OR GB WEBSITE DESIGN
G
rand Banks Yachts was honored at the 2006 Miami International Boat Show
for having the best marine manufacturerʼs website. The North American
Marine Industry Web Awards were launched last year by the National
Marine Manufacturers Association and boats.com to recognize the industryʼs
drive towards higher standards of excellence in website design and content.
“It is an honor to be recognized by our peers as number one in this category,” says David Hensel, Marketing Communications Director for Grand Banks
Yachts. “Weʼre always pushing to give customers more useful information on
our site. Just this month we introduced a new feature, a series of online seminars
that provide information from various industry experts to help our owners get the
most out of their cruising experience.”
The Grand Banks web site was redesigned in 2005 to improve its ability to provide timely information to consumers, dealers and media. Casual browsers can
quickly glean news about Grand Banksʼ products and dealer network, while serious buyers can easily find detailed information about the company, construction
methods, product performance, press reviews and more.
Itʼs also a place where people can connect with the community of Grand Banks
owners around the world. Owner association news, rendezvous events, and even
a series on online discussion forums enable GB enthusiasts to share ideas and information directly with others.
Letʼs Hear from You
> SPRAY NEEDS YOUR INPUT
since 1956
grand banks
50
years
For our 50th Anniversary Year,
we want to hear the myriad
stories from generations of
Grand Banks owners around
the world. Recount your favorite
travels, top destinations, and the
unique experiences youʼve had
aboard your own GB.
Recount your adventures, or
just recommend an anchorage.
Funny, fascinating or straight
from the heart, tell us who,
where, when and how.
NEW DEALER LOCATIONS
BOAT WORK S YAC HT SALES
>
Suddenly, all eyes around the marina were on the face dock as
the Lady Katheryn III, a beautiful 141-foot megayacht built in Australia by NQEA, was deftly nudged into place by her captain.
He was perched on the wing of the bridge deck, looking down to
check his position and oversee tie-up.
“Our family has owned three Grand Banks now, and each
has explored Australiaʼs East Coast effortlessly,” says Peter. “Mischa, our latest GB42, has done numerous hours
of cruising. Friends affectionately refer to her Sunday
cruise on the Gold Coasts Broadwater as the ʻGB Sunday.ʼ Iʼm very pleased to offer my passion for the brand
as we expand our operations throughout Australia and
explore other markets.”
GrandBanks.com Honored
{ P T. P L E A S A N T , N E W J E R S E Y }
Boatworks welcomes Tom Lebel and Kery Koesinski, two experienced
boat sales professionals, to the new office and the Boatworks team.
EAS T COAS T YAC HT SALES
{ FA L M O U T H , M A S S AC H U S E T T S }
Visit Jay Christopher at the new ECYS location at MacDougallsʼ
in the heart of Cape Cod, Mass.
> Kery Koesinski
Send your Spray submissions to:
jonathanc@grandbanks.com
Ramoz left one additional comment in Tortugaʼs logbook: “Highheel mark (under salon table) from Michigan State University
homecoming queen.” Clearly, a Grand Banks with some stories
to tell.
> Tom Lebel
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
spray volume 6 issue 1
5
scuttlebut
COLPIN
MONTGOMERY
P RO F I T T
GBʼS NEW FACES & PL ACES
Grand Banks is pleased to announce that Toni Profitt has taken on a new
and exciting role as the head of the companyʼs Interior Design & Development Committee. Toni has previously contributed her design expertise
to many GB models, including the new 70CP, while working as Sales
Support Manager. This new role is a key step in Grand Banksʼ continuing
work to ensure the design, look and layout of each new boat remains
fresh and vibrant — and meets the high standards of our owners.
love & matrimony
Taking over the role of Sales Support Manager is Lyndee Montgomery.
Lyndee has worked in many areas of sales, marketing, administration and
operations management. A quick study and a former live-aboard boater,
she joined Grand Banks in January.
O
n Friday, September 10th
Patrick William Foy and
Nicole Marie Patza were
united in marriage on the aft deck
of the R. Barney II (GB32-494) at
the Fish Creek Town Dock in Door
County, Wisconsin.
Luc Colpin, Grand Banksʼ Regional Sales Manager for Europe, has left
Belgium for the more comfortable climate and scenic environs of southern
France. Fortunately, he took his office with him, and will be working with
our European dealers and customers from his new location near Cannes,
at Port de La Napoule.
Ode to the 42
> AIME LERNER - 49MY, Lady M
I think that I shall never view
A sight as grand as the 42
The boat for which the Company prayed
The boat for which the public paid
The way the boat has been designed
Both speed and safety kept in mind
The size is great – Thereʼs room for more
While six is possible, itʼs best with four
The
The
The
The
The
The
The
The
We know theyʼll fit, but theyʼll make it rough
Who wants the kids with all their stuff?
Systems simple you canʼt miss
The motto is sealed with a KISS
But when it comes to the perfect boat
The folks at GB stand up and gloat
We say from owners, mates and crew
“God bless Grand Banks and the 42”
boat which had shock and awe
boat that captured hearts galore
captainʼs pride, its lines so sleek
first matesʼ lament “why so much teak?”
But teak it had, and to this day
We thank the Lord for “Deck-o-lay”
In 65 the debut came
The TRAWLER world wonʼt be the same
Hanging lockers, storage under the floor
Stow it in the V birth and close the door
The initial boat was made of wood
We knew maintenance would not be good
The boat had all the class, the look
And $38,000 was all it took
The women loved the great décor
GB beige and parquet floor
So glass came next, so easy, so nice
And Grand Banks smiled, up goes the price!
With engines meant to get you there
With fuel consumption not so dear
bridge, the helm, the engine room
space for clothes makes first mates swoon
46, the 49
36 – theyʼre also fine
INSPIRATION AFLOAT
While GB owners often inspire us
to design and build better vessels,
a very popular Grand Banks model
has apparently moved owner and
CBGBOA member Aime Lerner to
poetic heights of our own.
The weather cooperated beautifully,
except for the small craft advisories.
The wedding party boarded the R.
Barney II at the Alibi Dock and made
the ten minute (two block) cruise to
the “wall” of the Town Dock where
about 50 friends and relatives witnessed the ceremony presided by
Judge Moody Tisdale. We were going to have Captain Fred perform the
ceremony, but after realizing that it
would be legal for the duration of
the voyage only, we decided to let
the judge have the honors. Captain
Fred (in a tux) guided the boat to the
dock while Patrick (groom) and Patti
(mother of the groom) handled lines,
because, no matter what, weʼre still
just deck hands.
The dock was lined with anchorshaped candle holders, with streamers that matched the girlsʼ dresses,
hurricane glasses with sand, shells
and candles, buckets and buckets of
brightly colored fresh flowers, thanks
to the brideʼs mom, Mary.
The boom box played Pachelbelʼs
Canon in D, Vivaldiʼs The Four Sea-
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
Patrick Foy and Nicole Patza tie the knot on a
festive GB32 along the shores of Lake Michigan
sons and of course Handelʼs Water
Music. The R. Barney II looked fantastic decked out in white bows and
bells that ran up the mast. She even
had new “ring” buoys for the occasion. With six attendants, the bride
and groom and Judge Tisdale, it was
somewhat crowded on the R. Barneyʼs “back porch”, but they all fit
without having Judge Tisdale stand
on the swim platform. We werenʼt
sure if Captain Fred was going to
allow the girls to wear their spike
heels on deck, but he relented. Nicole, knowing more about nautical
etiquette, wore white rubber soled
high heels. Captain Fred and Admiral Patti oversaw the ceremony from
the fly bridge while Nicoleʼs parents,
Tom and Mary, enjoyed the service
on the dock.
The actual ceremony took about
15 minutes and no one dropped
any of the rings overboard, thanks
to them being attached to floating
key chains. The R. Barney took the
wedding party out into the harbor to
sign all the official paperwork, then
returned to the dock. The bride and
groom made their way to the bow
(try that in a wedding dress on a Sea
Ray) for pictures and then onto the
dock for more pictures.
A reception was held at the Baileys
Harbor Fish Market and Grille, moving the group from the Bay of Green
spray volume 6 issue 1
Bay to the shores of Lake Michigan
following the water theme.
When asked why he wanted to get
married on the boat, Patrick replied,
“It was the only way I could be sure
that my father would be there.”
READ ALL ABOUT IT!
COVER STORY: 39 EASTBAY SX > Read
the rave review and see photos of the new
39 Eastbay SX in the February 2006 issue
of Motor Boating.
42 ON ALL -TIME TOP 10 LIST > Editors
of Motor Boating named the Grand Banks
Heritage 42 first in their list of “10 Top
Cruising Boats” in their March 2006 issue.
SINGING THE 44EUʼS PRAISES > In an article titled “Future Perfect,” Yachting profiles
the 44EU, calling her “a fitting successor to
a design that has provided cruising comfort
to countless families.” March 2006.
MORE ON THE 44 > Read the feature
articles in this Aprilʼs editions of Sea and
Motor Boating magazines.
COMING SOON > Look for upcoming features in Yachting, Power & MotorYacht, Boat
International USA and other publications.
7
> Sand piles up on Fort Lauderdaleʼs AIA after hurricane Wilma passes through.
Grand Banks kicks off its 50th
Anniversary celebration in Miami
with three hot new boats ...
It was remarkable to look over
the GB display at the 2006 Miami
International Boat Show — three
brand new “#1” hulls and the
exceptional 47FB — and reflect
on the legacy behind it all. To
think that Spray, the 36-foot Ken
Smith-designed forerunner of the
Heritage Series, is still plying the
waters of the Great Lakes more
than forty years after her launch.
That the very first boat on record
ever built by this company, which
was not a powerboat but a 52-foot
ketch called Cutty Sark, is still sailing around the Northwest.
THE 59RP RETURNS FROM ONE OF ITS
S U C C E S S F U L S E A T R I A L S I N M I A M I , F LO R I DA .
>
>
showstoppers
Itʼs a rare testament to a unique
collection of vessels. And now, fifty
years and half a world from where
Robert Newton and his sons, Bob
and Whit, first launched Grand
Banks (née American Marine), the
company was set to make a new
splash with four exceptional boats.
What a way to start the next fifty
years.
“Is it me or is the dock sinking?”
Dozens of owners and other VIPs joined
dealers and Grand Banks personnel for
an evening soirée on the opening night of
the Miami International Boat Show. They
came for an invitation-only preview of the
three new show models, and to share in
the good spirit that arises whenever GB
owners gather together. As the Miami sunset painted a postcard-perfect backdrop,
factory and other company personnel
heard from customers and got first-hand
impressions of the new boats.
It wasnʼt long before Grand Banksʼ
single floating dock was packed to capacity; fortunately, neighboring exhibitors
welcomed everyone (thanks, Ferretti!) as
the crowed spilled out across the aisle. By
now the show was closing down, but the
steel drum band played on as partygoers
stayed to enjoy the boats, the conversation, and each other. Thank you to everyone who joined us in Miami!
Rescheduled Shows Shine On
> SHOWS CONTINUE DESPITE SETBAC KS
T
wo major boat shows in recent months experienced a
last-minute change of dates, one due to a natural disaster (Hurricane Wilma) and the other due to a similarly
unpredictable phenomenon (the NFLʼs Seattle Seahawks in
post-season play).
Both shows went on to open successfully, allowing customers in Ft. Lauderdale and Seattle to view new models and top
offerings from Grand Banks Yachts. The new 44 Heritage EU
was clearly the jewel in the crown at Lauderdale: “Everyone
who was there wanted to get on that boat,” said Regional
Sales Manager Byron Cox. “Iʼve never seen such a line to
board a Grand Banks. There was definitely a buzz about the
new 44, and people came a long way to see her in person.”
In Seattle, the Seahawksʼ success forced show organizers to
open a week early to avoid a conflict with the playoff games.
Still, local dealer Passage Maker Yachts was pleased.
“Despite the ʻHawks and the changes and the weather,”
said PMYʼs Greg Matthes, huddling beyond the reach of an
icy drizzle, “itʼs been a very successful show or us. A lot of
people braved the rain to see the new 44EU.” And indeed,
by showʼs end 44-05 was sporting a “sold” sign, as were
several other GBs at the show.
“Besides,” continued Greg, “Seattle boaters are used to
this kind of thing.” We can only imagine he meant the rainy
weather – and not the Seahawks charge to the Super Bowl.
The new wireless RemoteCommander both displays and
controls onboard electronics, and doubles as a VHF handset!
> Flashing the new CBGBOA burgee
> New association members following a successful event in Baltimore
> Bow to Bow: GBs packed in with inches to spare
O
By the amount of hugs and handshakes at the
annual cocktail party, hosted by Lynn Hendershot, it was apparent this group of boaters was
happy to enjoy each otherʼs company and another adventure. Thursday morning, however,
was gray and blustery. Members kept an eye on
the computers and NOAA reports, and “safety
first” president Geoff finally cancelled the predicted log event to Gibson Island. Bob Taylor, a
NOAA retiree realizing the gaping hole in our
program, arranged a visit to the NOAA Fisheries
Laboratory in Oxford and later in the afternoon
boat visitation commenced.
A modified predicted log race took place the following day as the group cruised from Oxford
to Baltimoreʼs Inner Harbor. The weather was
bright with a slight northerly breeze, just right
for a fall cruise. Captain Geoff was kept busy on
the VHF recording log times and Pepper did her
best to keep the pointed end of Rosetta heading
up the Chesapeake Bay.
NEW
The first remote control with VHF, intercom and cellphone functions
Chesapeake Bay Rendezvous
REMOTE
COMMANDER
> A PA S S I O N AT E N E W OW N E R S A S S O C I AT I O N
S TA R T S S T R O N G O N C H E S A P E A K E B AY
VHF Radios
Simrad Inc, 19210 33RD Ave West, Lynnwood, WA 98290
Tel. 425-778-8821 Fax: 425-771-7211
Small but powerful, the smart fully waterproof
remote even provides full VHF audio so making
calls is safe and easy. Whatever the weather view the data you need in the high visibility
display.
Autopilots
Instruments
NavStations
Call for the new Yachting Catalog or visit our web site.
www.simradusa.com
Once the Association business was concluded,
the group did its best to enhance the economy
of Baltimore and the Fells Point Annual Festival. The nightʼs gala was lively and concluded
much too soon, when some very tired boaters
returned to their vessels vowing to meet again
next year.
Ireland Opens its Doors
> IYS ORGANIZES A VIP OPEN HOUSE
Thanks to all the Grand Banks owners and enthusiasts who
attended Januaryʼs VIP Open House at Ireland Yacht Sales
in Sanibel, Florida.
During afternoon sea trials, Myton and his crew showed
off their collection of #1s (39SX-01 and 44EU-01) in the
Eastbay and Heritage series, respectively — as well as a
new 47FB and several immaculate brokerage boats.
> From left: Brian Duffy from IYS, Pat Maurice, owner of 42-1389, Jo An
Huff of Ft. Myers, Patʼs granddaughter Brianna, and GBʼs Bill Fink.
Whether your passion is sailing, cruising or
fishing the new RemoteCommander from Simrad
gives you the ultimate freedom. Using the power
of SimNet the RemoteCommander provides
complete wireless control of all
your networked products and will
even answer your cellphone.
For more information, please contact:
At Baltimore Harbor the group was joined by
additional members who had already docked.
The final count was 36 boating couples and a
full spectrum of GBs: Heritage, Eastbays, and
even a fine Alaskan. Baltimore will never be
the same!
currents
ne by one they kept coming, grandly
cruising up the Tred Avon, docking at
the Oxford Yacht Agency and neighboring slips. Defying all odds, and under the superb direction of the docking committee (Bruce
Krause, Bob Jordan, Bob Taylor and Geoff Holmes), 20 boat handlers squeezed their vessels
into their assigned spots, sometimes with only
inches to spare. “It was pure skill we witnessed”
and wonderful entertainment for the Oxford residents sitting on lawn chairs, enjoying the arrival
of the fleet.
St. Paul Travelers is proud to be endorsed by Grand Banks Yachts as their exclusive insurance provider.
St. Paul Travelers QUAY Marine Agreement, a policy usually reserved for mega yachts, has been further
enhanced with additional features that reflect the quality of Grand Banks Yachts and the experience of
those who own them.
Visit www.grandbanks.com/resources/insurance to apply today and get the benefit of having a deductible
of only 1/2 of 1 percent of the property damage coverage.
Partner sponsor of the Grand Banks Grand Tour.
As a setting sun tinged the picturesque Sanibel Marina in
pinks and purples, a live band struck up songs while cocktails began to flow. Around the docks, preparations were
being made to kick off the West Florida GB Ownersʼ Association rendezvous the next day. Inside the party, no one
was in a hurry to leave.
stpaultravelers.com
© 2006 The St. Paul Travelers Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.
After all, who would be?
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
spray volume 6 issue 1
11
Allanʼs Indaba, prim and
proper for her christening.
Photographed in
Long Beach, California,
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May 2005.
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Inda ba
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The Sun Rises On
S
itting over breakfast on a clear, perfect morning seaside in southern California, a
beaming couple talks about their new boat, a 46 Heritage EU they are set to christen
as Indaba. The story, though, as they unwind it over omelets and coffee, appears to
be less about the boat itself than it is about the events that conspired to bring it into their lives.
I have flown from Seattle to meet Maurice Roper and Heather Allan at the behest of Stan Miller
Yachtsʼ Linda McCrossan and GBʼs Bob Phillips, who first alerted me to the coupleʼs unique story.
Longtime boaters and residents of the United States — Maurice hails from New Zealand and
Heather from South Africa — the two had recently sold their labor of love, a Mason 43 sailboat
that Maurice had restored to perfection. They reasoned that a powerboat would inject more flexibility into their busy lives, allowing quicker travel times to Catalina Island and other destinations.
And based on the photos I see of their beautiful Mason, the Grand Banks will make for a smooth
transition.
We order breakfast at a marina restaurant in Long Beach. Indaba sits a stoneʼs throw away and
story by Jonathan Cooper
yachting
Maurice Roper & Heather
is the centerpiece of attention and discussion as crews and subcontractors ready her for a christening party the following day at the Long Beach Yacht Club. Linda is obviously quite fond of Maurice
and Heather, who are quick to point out how essential she has been in getting Indaba safely into
their hands.
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
spray volume 6 issue 1
13
Counterclockwise from left:
< Indaba, on her maiden voyage to
Catalina Island, California
< The beautifully-styled, open salon
< At the christening: Heather & Maurice
stand with Linda from Stan Miller Yachts
< Trademark, welcoming aft deck
< Indaba graces San Diego harbor on her
first trip south of Los Angeles
One thing that strikes you immediately about Maurice and Heather: they deflect attention
away from themselves, preferring instead to give credit to everyone around them for the
hard work and diligence required to outfit and commission Indaba. Everyone is graciously
acknowledged: Bob Livingston and the late Sukri Ahmad at Grand Banks, Doug Kerr and
Linda at Stan Miller Yachts, Dave New of Basin Marine Shipyard, Bill Jahn from Crew West
Marine Electronics, Rodger Lowery at Glacier Marine Refrigeration, Steve Degrote at CFab, Raulʼs Marine Canvas, and Seamʼs Newport Interior Design.
Heather is charming with a warm sense of humor. She seems constantly amused by Maurice and at-ease with everything. Maurice is every bit as easy-going and affable as Heather,
but a perfectionist, meticulous in the details of the commissioning. From Indabaʼs bull-nosed
granite countertops to the custom shelving that harbors the spices for his cooking, no detail
was too small, no feature overlooked as it all came together.
Their good cheer and modesty on this sunny Saturday in May, however, belie the pressure
that they must undoubtedly feel in their professional lives, and the harrowing experience
that preceded this happy day.
Heather is a bureau chief for NBC News, heading up the important world news division.
Maurice is a “combat cameraman,” a freelance videographer who has filmed in some of
the most war-torn and horrifying places on earth. They have both been in the line of fire, literally, covering the Persian Gulf War, Iraq, the Rwandan genocide, and Somalia for NBC.
On one stay in Baghdad, a bomb exploded across the street at the Australian embassy,
sending superheated shrapnel airborn, shattering their hotel windows and melting the aluminum frames before embedding into the wall opposite their window.
But no event was more dangerous, and perhaps more defining, than the kidnapping. Maurice and several members of his crew were taken and held hostage is Iraq. Heather, back
at home when she heard the news, was in the middle of the last details of their proposal to
buy Indaba.
Despite the excruciating swirl of events, she knew it was important to proceed as they had
planned. There could be no looking back, no other alternative to consider: this was how it
was meant to be, how it would be in the end. Still, when Heather signed, Maurice remained
in captivity, with no resolution in sight.
Even in recounting his dramatic ordeal, Maurice is quick to credit others — a brave and
skillful Iraqi interpreter, along with a strong helping of good luck — for the fortunate outcome. His captors released Maurice and the rest of the crew, and he eventually made his
way home to California.
It is clear that Maurice and Heather love every minute they spend on the water. This boat
represents far more than a means to an end. It is the symbol of escape, a re-vitalization, and
the recognition that every moment of life is as important as the next.
“One thing that strikes you immediately about Maurice and Heather: they deflect attention
away from themselves, preferring instead to give credit to everyone around them”
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
Their friends and associates, people that supported them through thick and thin, turn out
en masse to christen this new stage of their life. Maurice grinning his approval. Heather
bashing the champagne bottle against the anchor platform. Just as it was meant to be. <>
spray volume 6 issue 1
15
“This is the quietest boat Iʼve
ever been on,” remarked
one editor out to sea trial
59-01, first of Grand Banksʼ
newest model in the Aleutian Series. Another passenger, a GB owner along for
the ride, inquired casually,
“How fast are we going?
12, 14 knots?”
“Actually, just over 22
knots,” answered the captain. “She sure is smooth
and quiet.”
59
The scene was Miami,
where smooth, quiet, and
comfortable were just a
few of the words people
and press used to describe
the new 59RP. “Stunning,”
“spectacular,” and “wow!”
were heard quite a bit as
well. “I canʼt believe this is
a number one hull,” whispered one guest to her companion, running her fingers
along the joinery in the master cabin. “It looks flawless,
completely flawless.”
Of course, youʼll want
to see and experience this
new raised pilothouse motoryacht for yourself to judge
her merits: The stylish interiors and a spacious, functional layout. The graceful
staircase curving from her
large aft deck to the equally grand flybridge. Powerful performance features. A
long list of standard equipment. Perhaps the best engine room Grand Banks has
ever designed.
Cruising out past Miami
Beach, someone asked the
captain: “So how fast will
she go?” He answered by
pushing the throttles forward, her twin 1,000-horse
engines pushing the Aleutian eagerly toward the
open ocean.
“Weʼre steady at 27
knots,” he replied, barely
raising his voice. Nobody
was in a hurry to get back
to the docks.
STRENGTH
THE ACCL AIMED ALEUTIAN SERIES GAINS BY ONE
AND MIAMI APPEARANCES NOW COMPLETE,
THE SPARKLING — AND SOUGHT- AFTER —
NEW 59 ALEUTIAN RP HITS THE HIGH SEAS
IN NUMBERS
16
spray volume 6 issue 1
39 EASTBAY SX
49 EASTBAY SX
44 HERITAGE CL
> The new 39SX is an enclosed salon cruiser with accommodations to
please any couple or small family.
The layout is open and airy below,
featuring an efficient galley and a
roomy dinette that converts easily
to a double berth. To starboard,
the head includes an enclosed
shower, while the forward master
cabin features an island berth and
plenty of storage. The deckhouse
features curved glass windows to
aft, with panoramic views from twin
captainʼs chairs and the L-settee.
Built-in seating in the cockpit rises
easily for storage below, while new
performance features keep the
39SX running swift and sure in all
cruising conditions.
> This new SX model is an enclosed-salon Downeast cruiser that
adds an extra measure of comfort
to the original high-style, high-performance 49 Eastbay design. The
modified deep-V hull by Hunt Associates is legendary for its seaworthiness underway, where speeds can
easily top 30 knots. Inside the salon
youʼll find plenty of space behind
the helm, and around the generous
L-settee for entertaining and enjoyment. Double doors just starboard
of the centerline open aft to a
spacious cockpit, where features
like pop-up fender cleats and teak
decking are standard.
> Reborn with a new layout, greater beam, fresh interior styling and a
top speed of 23+ knots, the all-new
44CL redefines the term “classic.” A product of Grand Banksʼ
collaboration with renowned naval
architects Sparkman & Stephens,
she has been redesigned from the
keel up, starting with the 44ʼs modified deep-V hull. On deck, youʼll
notice a new door leading from the
main cabin to the aft deck. Built-in
steps provide safe and easy access
to a more spacious flybridge, with
a center helm station, built-in settee
and wet bar. Down below, a bigger, brighter cabin leads forward
to a thoughtfully designed halfdown galley.
new models
WITH HER MAIDEN VOYAGE, GL AMOUR SHOOT,
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
suggest you put engine access high on your priority list
when searching for a new or used pleasure boat.
In the hands of a master mariner like Capt. Johnson —
trained at California Maritime Academy — and his relief,
Capt. Steve Bond — trained at Maine Maritime Academy
— Jean Anne is surprisingly nimble in tight spaces with her
large-diameter and slow turning prop, large rudder and
thrusters.
> THE WRITERʼS GRAND BANKS 42 SHARES SOME SIMIL ARITIES WITH JEAN ANNE
She has a 102-foot beam and displaces 24,825 metric
tons when loaded to her summer draft. Cars and trucks
are actually light cargo, and the commercial measure of a
PCTC is in square footage, the same as a land-side parking garage. Jean Anne is a medium-size car carrier by
todayʼs standards, and with 393,335 square feet of cargo
deck area she can carry 3,000 of the vehicles Americans
typically drive or 4,300 European cars.
SUPERSHIP
JOHN LOVE GIVES GB READERS A SENSE OF BOATING. SUPER-SIZED.
M
ost weekends you can find me at the helm
of my Grand Banks 42 Classic, Maramor,
steaming across Long Island Sound. Today I
stand on the bridge wing of the PCTC Jean Anne with
Capt. Greg Johnson and the pilot as bow and stern
thrusters and two tugs push and pull her off the wharf
and into the narrow channel.
Obviously there are enormous differences between a
Grand Banks 42 and a 577-foot commercial vessel.
However, you might be surprised by several aspects
of Jean Anne, specifically how little horsepower is required to move a ship of her size through the water
and her safe one-man bridge.
PCTC, or pure car/truck carriers, are totally enclosed,
very high freeboard (about 65 feet) ships that look
like floating warehouses and transport vehicles on the
worldʼs oceans in the global economy. A ship that
carries cargo between U.S. ports by law must be built
in the United States, and Jean Anne was five years
on the ways in Pascagoula, Miss. — her construction
delayed for years by the bankruptcy of the building
yard. She is the first and only PCTC built in America,
but her design is a proven one, provided by the Uljanik shipyard in Pula, Croatia.
REPRINTED HERE, WITH PERMISSION FROM
Jean Anneʼs main engine is a MAN B&W turbocharged 14,832-bhp (11,060-kW)/127-rpm slowspeed, two-cycle diesel. There is no gear or clutch.
The shaft driving the 18.5-foot-diameter four-bladed
propeller, weighing in at 30,644 pounds, is attached
directly to the crankshaft. Thus, only when she is clear
of the wharf is her main engine started.
Never did the rumble of a huge marine diesel sound
and feel so sweet as when we departed the dusty shipyard for the open sea, bound for San Diego and the
start of a fortnightly service to the Hawaiian Islands.
At the sea buoy, we dropped the pilot, called for full
ahead, and at 127 rpm left Mississippi waters at 20
knots, headed for the Panama Canal and the blue
waters of the Pacific.
Like Jean Anne, Maramor has a single engine and a
large rudder. Well-maintained marine diesels strictly
operated within the parameters specified by the manufacturer are extremely reliable, whether powering a
trawler or a PCTC. Good access around, over and under the engine encourages proper maintenance and
even makes it fun rather than a chore for the mechanically inclined. It is no coincidence that Maramorʼs engine space is a miniature reflection of Jean Anneʼs. I
Three of her decks are hoistable so
that the decks below can accommodate high and wide cargo, such as
sailboats or Grand Banks trawlers.
She is a roll-on/roll-off ship, and cargo is driven aboard over two ramps:
the quarter ramp aft and the side ramp
amidships. All decks are connected by a series of internal ramps and watertight doors.
Cargo weighing 100 metric tons can be driven aboard over the quarter ramp.
100,000 bhp. Her 14,832-bhp (11,060-kW) powerplant
has seven cylinders with a bore of 19.7 inches. The stroke
is 6.6 feet.
Her boxy appearance notwithstanding, she has a fine hull
form below the waterline. Shaft horsepower at various
speeds was measured during sea trials, and it took very
little shaft horsepower to maintain low speeds. For example, at 30 rpm Jean Anne was doing 4.2 knots with
a shaft horsepower of only 309, less than the power on
many Boston Whalers. At the other end of the speed/
power curve, it took more than 2,500 shp (22 percent) to
increase speed 1.4 knots (7 percent).
These measurements demonstrate why a 24-ton Nordhavn
43 needs only a 130-hp engine for a cruising speed of 8
knots. In my opinion, most recreational boats today are
vastly overpowered, with expensive and avoidable consequences. My 18-ton (fully loaded) Grand Banks 42 has
a single 420-bhp engine, but at maximum displacement
speed of 9 knots she is at only 28 percent load or 118
bhp. Fortunately, Maramor has a Caterpillar 3126B electronic diesel and can run continuously at this load both
efficiently and cleanly, consuming 6 gallons of diesel per hour. At 8.4 knots her
fuel consumption remarkably decreases.
Maramorʼs long range cruising characteristics would improve if her engine were
de-rated for one of the commercial ratings
for the 3126B (250 to 375 bhp), allowing
improved performance at low loads.
Slow-turning engines also are more reliable. For example, a cylinder liner on
Jean Anneʼs diesel can be expected to last
60,000 to 100,000 running hours before
replacement, with proper lubrication and
uncontaminated fuel. That equates to 8.5
to 14 years of continuous service assuming an average of 7,000 running hours a
year.
Jean Anne has three diesel generators that produce 2,880
kW of power to light and ventilate the cargo space, power the thrusters (2,414 hp/1,800 kW), and run the pumps
and electrical components that help keep her gainfully
employed 365 days a year without pause. (She will get
to rest for two weeks twice in five years for maintenance
and inspections.) She is built to work, and her slow-speed
diesel is the workhorse of the oceans.
It is rare for a deep-sea cargo ship to have twin screws or
even medium- or high-speed diesels. Slow-speed diesels
are extremely robust, reliable and available exceeding
Jean Anne efficiently burns the lowest
grade fuel readily available, IFO 380, which is the residue
left from crude oil after everything of value is taken out in
the refining process. The result is a black tar-like substance
that must be heated by steam to be pumped. This is why
cargo ships have a boiler that makes the steam circulated
through heating coils in the bunker (fuel) tanks. Under
way, waste heat from the engine exhaust is the “fuel” for
the steam boiler. Fuel oil and lubricating oils are continuously purified on board in powerful centrifuges.
Large diesel engines are started by compressed air, so a
cargo ship has huge high-pressure air compressors and
SOUNDINGS
> This
page: Jean
Anneʼs
Celebrating
GBʼs
50thslow
Yearspeed, 2-cycle diesel is coupled directly
to an 18.5-foot, four-bladed propeller with no gear or clutch
spray volume 6 issue 1
19
Shifting Into High Gear
so they can be operated by one person in ocean areas and
along open coastlines under normal operating conditions.
They are, however, spacious enough to allow two navigators
to work in close cooperation in pilotage waters.
pressure vessels to hold large volumes of starting air at 30
bar (435 psi). Seawater for cooling is circulated through titanium plate coolers, which transfer heat from the fresh water
that circulates through the machinery.
The machinery and electrical distribution systems are monitored by a sophisticated alarm and monitoring system, and
can be operated from control stations on the bridge. After
a trial period to prove the automation, Jean Anneʼs engine
room will be certified as “periodically unmanned.” Automation has proven more reliable than human watchstanders,
especially with the advent of microprocessor-based systems.
Jean Anneʼs engineering officers are a chief engineer and
first, second and third assistant engineers. Since these qualified and licensed engineers wonʼt have to stand watches, their
time will be better spent on maintenance, which enhances
safety and reliability as well as the engineersʼ professional
qualifications and job satisfaction.
Jean Anneʼs deck officers are a master, chief mate, and second and third mates. Her bridge is equipped with a one-man
Sperry Marine Integrated Bridge System (IBS), including voyage planning system, ECDIS (electronic chart display and information system), autopilot, speed log, two independent radar/ARPA systems, GPS, fiber-optic and conventional gyros,
machinery alarm and monitoring systems, bridge control of
propulsion machinery ... the equipment list goes on.
The IBS has ergonomic user interfaces with superb functionality, information availability, and redundant and reliable
equipment. The IBS is a combination of these systems interconnected to allow centralized access to the information and
command/control workstations with the aim of increasing
safety and efficiency. It is designed for one-man operation,
with the following stipulation: on the high seas in clear visibility with little or no traffic. Jean Anne has six crewmembers
certified to be part of the bridge watch team as lookouts and
helmsmen.
The field of vision from the pilothouse is designed to enable
the watch officer to maintain a proper lookout at all times from
any workstation. The workstations for navigation and traffic
surveillance and maneuvering are located in close proximity
GRAND TOUR 2006: INSIDE PASSAGE
The safety advantages of the IBS became obvious to me as
Jean Anne commenced her sea passage from the Pacific side
of the Panama Canal. Four container ships and tankers were
converging on our small patch of water. Jean Anne was doing 20 knots and the container ships 25 knots, so we were
closing at 45 knots. The navigational information displayed
on the radar/ARPA screens (10 cm and 3 cm) and the ECDIS
screens was so clear, complete and user friendly that you
completely understood what was happening around you, as if
a fully manned naval CIC (combat information center) behind
the bridge was feeding the plots.
The advantages of the AIS (automatic identification system)
were particularly obvious. Pertinent information on each converging vessel was displayed on the radars and the ECDIS
screens. Aside from the obvious advantages, this enabled the
mate on watch to hail a particular vessel to discuss its intentions, if they were unclear from the plot. All commercial cargo
vessels have DSC VHF radios, and the unique MMSI (marine
mobile service identity) number for each ship is displayed by
the AIS, permitting a watch officer to hail just the vessel of
interest.
Internal communications are a key element of the bridge and periodically unmanned engine room. There are information, alarm
and control displays; deck and engine department watch call
systems; digital and sound-powered telephone systems; handheld radios; public address system; and “dead man” alarms,
which require personnel in certain spaces to acknowledge they
are OK on a periodic basis or alarms are sounded summoning
help. Areas like the cargo ramps and critical machinery — such
as the main engine, the generators, and fuel and lube oil purifiers — are monitored by cameras, the images controlled and
displayed on the bridge and in the engine control room.
Statistics on such navigational incidents as groundings, collisions
and contact damage bear out that modern technology combined
with highly trained crews equate to remarkably increased safety
and reliability, fewer injuries and property losses, and less damage to the environment. The situational awareness provided by
Jean Anneʼs state-of-the-art technology makes our fellow mariners in small boats much more visible than in the past, helping
to ensure that we pass each other on the high seas safely in all
conditions. <>
John Love is executive vice president of Strong Vessel Operators
LLC, technical manager of the PCTC Jean Anne for vessel owner
Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines LLC. He is also a regular contributor
to Soundings magazine.
AURORA BOREALIS. PHOTOGRAPHED FROM FAIRBANKS, ALASKA
< Jean Anneʼs giant 18.5-foot prop sits impressively out of the
water. (Notice the size of the men standing below.)
WHATʼS IN S TORE F OR PARTICIPANTS ON
Grand Tour 2006: Inside Passage?
GRAND TO6R
INSIDE
PASSAGE
> With the help of Executive Director Susan Bland and her team,
here are just a few highlights owners on the Tour can expect to enjoy.
• An incredible kick-off celebration at the stunning Poets
Cove resort, hosted by Grand Banks CEO Bob Livingston.
Get to know other Tour participants during sunset cocktails
by the terraced gardens, then enjoy a delicious banquet
dinner by one of the regionʼs most acclaimed chefs. The
next morning, a formal Sail Past with streamers flying highlights the send-off from BC-based Grand Banks owners,
while our aerial photographer captures the whole scene
for our scrapbooks.
• Experience the grandeur of Misty Fjords National Monument, a 2.2 million acre national treasure. An exclusive
guided tour boat excursion provides a professional narration of the wildlife, plants and geology of the area. Be
awed by cliffs towering thousands of feet above the sea
and waterfalls cascading into the placid waters. View New
Eddystone Rock, a volcanic plug, rising 237 feet from the
waters of Behm Canal. Keep watch for seals and bald eagles, as well as numerous sea birds.
• Learn as you go: naturalists, historians, anthropologists
and local experts will meet the Tour at destinations along
the way to bring the region alive and help participants gain
a deep appreciation for this unique area. Other discussions
include a how-to digital photo seminar from Spray editor
and photographer Jonathan Cooper; cooking classes by
former Herbfarm chef Becky Selengut; boating seminars
by Tour Captain and Pacific Maritime Institute instructor
John Kessler; and other surprise guests along the way.
• Relax in one of two natural hot springs found along the
Stikine River. Jet boat to Andrews Creek, a clear freshwater creek, and watch the spawning salmon. Navigate
slowly through a maze of topaz blue icebergs to Chief
Shakes Glacier and view the solid granite cliffs thousands
of feet high. The Stikine River is prime habitat for many
species of Alaskan wildlife including moose, bear, eagles,
wolves & deer.
• A bonfire dinner after a breathtaking cruise to Shearwater, where local fresh-caught salmon are arranged on
stakes around the fire and served with other fine fare by
the resortʼs staff. The next day itʼs off to Klemtu, where
owners can discover the rich culture of the Kitasoo/Xaixais
First Nation people as well as explore the wildlife and land
of the Great Bear Rainforest.
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
This is only a small sampling of the activities Grand Tour
participants can look forward to. There are also fishing
expeditions, potlucks, nature hikes, special gifts and other
daily surprises. Too much to mention here.
And, of course, there are the daily joys of cruising together, with other owners from across the county and around
the world, through one of the worldʼs most beautiful and
magical cruising grounds. In a Grand Banks, no less.
spray volume 6 issue 1
21
grand tour
And Now, a Word from our Sponsors
> WE ARE PLEASED TO PRESENT OUR VALUED SPONSORS F OR THIS YEARʼS GRAND TOUR
A Prairie Chicken Comes Aboard
SPONSOR RECOGNITION
> MARGO WOOD J O I N S T H E G R A N D TO U R : I N S I D E PA S SAG E
I
began my boating life as a nonswimming, very nervous adult since
I grew up far from the ocean and
had no desire to acquaint myself with
such a foreign element. After my husband Charles and I moved from Calgary to Vancouver in 1958 we began
to sail in various boats on both the
west and east coasts of North America. We planned to sail around the
world with our two children when we
purchased a Spencer 51 but our plans
were abruptly changed when Charles
suffered a heart attack sending plans
for offshore voyages to the far back
burner.
We did manage a cruise to Mexico
that marked the beginning of our publication of Charlieʼs Charts Cruising
Guides. The business has grown and
now includes six guides covering the
following areas: the British Colombian
coastline to Glacier Bay, Alaska; the
U.S. Pacific Coast from Seattle to San
Diego; the west coast of Mexico, Costa Rica, Polynesia and the Hawaiian
Islands. Charles passed away in 1987
and I continue to update and publish the guides which have sold over
80,000 copies.
Today, I still sail the 36-foot Nova Sco-
SIMRAD
LAST CHANCE TO JOIN THE
CRUISE OF A LIFETIME ...
tia that we sailed together on the IntraCoastal, cruising to Florida and then
on to the Bahamas to Hawaii and from
Vancouver to Glacier Bay, Alaska.
Generally, I sail single-handed on
yearly cruises along the B.C. coast
though I did take crew when traveling
to the Queen Charlotte Islands and
circumnavigating Vancouver Island.
B.C.ʼs gorgeous coast has so many inlets, islands and anchorages that I will
never be able to visit them all.
I am looking forward to joining the
Grand Tour: Inside Passage as this will
be my first cruise in the comfort and
protection afforded by a vessel with
such an enviable reputation. I must admit that there were several times during our trip to Alaska that we looked
with envy at the trawlers passing by
with their crew waving at us as we
were battered by wind and rain.
I am particularly honored to be a
guest of Susan and Jeff Bland on their
beautiful new vessel, M/V Sanctuary,
a new 70 Aleutian.
Has this special Grand Tour preview
whetted your appetite for an exceptional cruising experience? Limited
space remains for interested Grand
Banks owners. While there is a fee to
participate, the value of the events
and activities on the Tour far exceeds
the cost. And we would love to have
you along!
Margo is the publisher of Charlieʼs Charts.
An avid and experienced offshore sailor,
Ms. Wood joins the Grand Tour and helps
provide her insights into cruising the Inside
Passage to Alaska.
Grand Banks is very pleased to
welcome Margo Wood aboard
the Grand Tour. Margo has an
expert knowledge of the hot spots
and hidden gems of the Inside
Passage, the donʼt-miss people
and places that make for an unforgettable trip. As a result, what
was already a unique, exciting
event is sure to be a once-in-alifetime experience for all Grand
Tour participants!
T OP C H E F TA K E S T H E GA L L E Y
As another exciting addition to our trip, Grand Banks is happy to have chef Becky
Selengut joining the Grand Tour. Many people know Becky from her work with the
highly-acclaimed, world-renowned Herbfarm restaurant near Seattle. She is a graduate of William Smith College and the Seattle Culinary Academy where she was
awarded the Outstanding Culinarian of the Year.
She has worked on two PBS cooking shows, Home Cooking with Amy Coleman and
Cucina Amore. Becky has years of experience as a chef-instructor and as a private
chef. She will join the Grand Tour for the entire trip and will lead several Cooking-onBoard classes for those who are interested.
You can reach her website at: www.CornucopiaCuisine.com
The Grand Tour begins May 15, so call
today if youʼre interested in joining:
Toll-free in the U.S. (888) 893-4596
Local phone
(206) 617-1664
OTHER COOL STUFF
O
>
wners on the Grand
Tour will have the opportunity to see many of these
sponsorsʼ products in action.
Zodiac will have their CZ7,
the ultimate adventure boat,
as a “tender” in the Tour. The
new Flir Thermovision will be
aboard the flagship 70 Aleutian. HealthForce Partners
will be providing their valuable medical concierge services to us during the cruise.
And other sponsors will have
products and support for owners or be onboard the boats
along the trip.
Grand Tour 2006 would not hold
the promise of such great fun and
enjoyment without the support of
our Partner Sponsors. Like Grand
Banks, they excel at what they do,
each with a reputation for quality
and customer support that leads the
industry. We would like to acknowledge each for their contributions to
this event.
ZODIAC
Grand Banks Yachts is grateful for
the commitment each and every one
of these sponsors has made, and
for their recognition of our 50-year
anniversary. Please take a moment
to learn more about these companies, and the products and services
they provide, by visiting the Partner
Sponsor section of our Grand Tour
web site, grandbanks/grandtour
INFLATABLE BOAT CENTER
AVON
ONAN
TRITEX
STIDD
FLIR
ST PAUL TRAVELERS
RONSTAN
INTERLUX
AWLGRIP
PASSAGEMAKER MAGAZINE
HEALTHFORCE PARTNERS
PHOTOWORKS
0
5
5
y
e
1rams
T
he pair of exquisitely crafted teak entry
doors was our first indication that we had
indeed arrived at the right place to pro-
vide the answers we were seeking to our question “where do
boats come from?” Nineteen years, and now a journey of over
eight thousand miles separated us from the day and place we
had first posed that question.
Carole and I first saw a 42 Europa from the deck of our familyʻs 1987 GB32. The year was 1988 and we were rafted up
with thirty-some GBs at Disappointment Slough in Californiaʼs
San Joaquin River Delta with the Northern California Grand
Banks Ownerʼs Association (NCGBA). Subsequent NCGBA
summer cruises to the Delta found us frequently returning to
discussions of the Europa-style and served to nourish the vision
of designing and having one built for us.
With my background in architecture and engineering, I had
come to appreciate the design quality nuances of our 32ʼs
construction as I performed the majority of her regular maintenance and repairs. As a busy high school principal, Carole
came to appreciate the quiet and comforts of our GB, enjoying the benefits of frequent weekend boating getaways where
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
spray volume 6 issue 1
25
she could relax, enjoy her cooking hobbies, and still be
Hull #1550 had started life in February of 2004 as a
able to finish work in her office afloat. Discussions of our
dealer boat. By May, when we placed our order, her hull
combined boating needs made it clear that a Europa was
was already out of the mold but with help from the dealer
our next boat.
and GB engineers she quickly began her transformation
As we opened the GB factory teak doors, the scent of
fiberglass resin quickly returned us from our reveries as
we entered the fiberglass shop mezzanine. Below, rows of
shiny red hull and deckhouse molds stretching down the
building provided a stunning introduction to the scale and
organization of the plant. With hulls, decks, and deckhouses all requiring separate molds, the floor area is enormous
and a beehive of activity.
into “our boat.” CAD (computer aided design) quickly
became the universal language between myself and the
GB engineers. We played “what if?” scenarios using deck
plans and detailed cabinet drawings to tailor her to our
needs. Working together, we designed things like a custom
fold-down yacht table to be used as a computer desk/dining table. In our frequent exchange of emails with Malaysia, we were made to feel like we were important members
of the design team and came to truly know our boat.
All of the familiarity created by our
previous graphic and written interaction
had not prepared us for the beauty of
the first sight of our boat. From our mezzanine vantage point she appeared as
if she were still attached to her umbilical
cord waiting for us to be present at her
“berth.” Our bond with her was instant
even before we set foot on her decks.
Thinking our trip complete I thought
“how can we take her home with us as
carry-on luggage?”
A side trip to the GB plant in Singapore
soon proved that our “new-born” was
not quite complete without a new wardrobe. Our gracious GB guide, Matilda
Wu, and Carole soon surrounded themselves with piles of fabric, upholstery,
and color samples. Their collaboration
> Above: Carole & Jerry inspecting the yard at Grand Banks Malaysia
was complete when they emerged with
> Opposite: 42-1550, Five Star, basks in the waning light of sunset
their final selection of “soft goods”.
Our level of enthusiasm ratcheted up as we rounded the
corner to the teak shop. “Drawers, yes” Carole exclaimed.
I chuckled to myself as our question of how the teak on
our boat matched so well was answered; it is all milled
from raw lumber on site. Even the teak plywood is laminated there, including hand crafted in-lay designs. Watching cabin sole assemblies being constructed upside down
as a single unit, and whole interior “modules” of cabins
and cabinetry answered our questions on why their joinery
work was so precise. As we passed an un-painted mast
labeled “Hull 1550” (yes, it was made by their shops) our
questions resolved into one, “where is our boat?”
26
I was eager to join Carole and our guide as we emerged
into the Singapore GB boat yard for a “quick” tour of almost-completed boats being readied to ship to all parts
of the world. As we toured each boat I repeatedly heard
the phrase “can we have this on our boat?” Unanticipated
extras like black granite counter tops soon required some
budget trade-offs in my “ideal” engine room.
Looking out of the shining teak rear entry doors of our
boat now at our home, we frequently speak of our visit to
“where boats come from.” Hull #1550 is now Five Star our
name chosen for her graceful culmination of fine design,
quality materials, and precise craftsmanship.
spray volume 6 issue 1
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
>
R ONSTAN: THE OFFICIAL JACKET OF GRAND TOUR 2006
from the yard
Lightning Flashes
GB SERVIC E MAN AGER L ARRY CROUC H
OFFERS A MULTI-PART SERIES ON
MAINTEN AN CE, SAFET Y AND MORE
T
hrough modern technology, almost all
serious threats to boaters have been
minimized or eliminated. GPS puts us on
course, depth sounders keep us off the reefs,
satellites and radio give us ample warning
of bad weather, and radar can save us from
collisions at sea. However, we are still subject to one whim of nature that packs deadly
force. Lightning strikes can cause severe damage, injury, and even death.
Before discussing lightning protection methods, some myths about lightning must be
dispelled. I have often heard and read that
lightning will strike the tallest target. This is
untrue, in my experience. We have repaired
lightning damage to many boats that were
not the tallest target on their respective pier.
And, I have been at sea with lightning striking the water around me, and the vessel I
was on was not hit. This indicates to me that
lightning strikes are more or less unpredictable. Also, it is a mistake to believe that a
boat protected by a complete lightning protection system will be guaranteed safety.
It must be understood that protection systems
do not prevent strikes, they only aim to minimize the damage. There are several products
on the market, such as static dissipaters, that
claim to prevent strikes. Despite their claims,
I have seen victimized yachts that were
equipped with such products.
Despite this gloomy conclusion, there are
measures that should be taken to lessen
the risk of serious injury to passengers. The
American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)
defines a “zone of protection” as “an essentially cone-shaped space below a grounded
air terminal, mast or overhead ground wire,
wherein the risk of a direct lightning strike
is substantially reduced.” Theoretically, the
“zone of protection” provides security for an
area in diameter equal to the height of the
lightning rod. Powerboats need to be fitted
with a lightning rod above the flybridge seating area.
As Nigel Calder suggests: “Lightning protection should be a relatively simple affair ... the
basic philosophy behind lightning protection
is to conduct the strike to ground as cleanly
as possible.”
The ABYC states that a minimum system
consists of a lightning rod and an external
grounding plate. The plate should be at least
one square foot in surface area for saltwater
applications. The bonding wire between the
lightning rod and the grounding plate must
have a minimum conductivity of a #4 wire.
The lightning rod must be located so that its
end terminates no less than six inches above
the highest point of the mast. An aluminum
mast may act as a conductor, but wooden
masts must have a minimum of a #8 copper
wire as a conduit from the rod of the bonding wire connected to the ground plate. Powerboats may use outriggers or antennas for
lightning rods, but care must be taken to ensure a proper bonding wire to the grounding
plate.
Experts agree that the bonding wire from the
mast to the grounding plate must be as direct
as possible; sharp bends or loops may cause
the strike to “jump” to a different conductor.
These “side flashes” are the cause of most
major damage. The ABYC suggests that “no
bend of a conductor shall form an included
angle of less than 90 degrees, nor shall have
a radius of bend less than eight inches.”
Regardless of the method used to ground
the vessel, one major flaw will exist in any
system. That is, there is no way to really test
a lightning ground, short of experiencing an
actual strike. Also, any system composed of
wires terminating in the bilge will require
regular maintenance to be effective. All conductors must be inspected often for loose or
corroded connections that make the system
useless.
As I have discussed, there are no absolute
preventive measures to avoid lightning strikes.
Should one occur, there are several important
steps to take to prevent further damage and
ensure the safety of the vessel. Obviously,
the crew is the primary concern. If the crew
is not injured, the following should be done
immediately: turn off all electrical and mechanical equipment and switches, lower sails,
check the bilge for incoming water. Inspect
the engine room and electrical harnesses for
smoldering wires. If the engines harness appears in serviceable condition, turn on the
starter battery and watch closely as the engine is started. Motor to the dock and secure
all electrical appliances and switches until a
detailed inspection can be made.
Once the boat is secured and it is determined
that no fires or leaks exist, arrangements
should be made for a survey and haul out for
close examination of all systems. Lightning
cannot only burn wiring, it can also blow out
through-hull fittings, burn cutlass bearings
and engine components, affect compasses,
and damage the rigging. All of these items
must be closely inspected by a qualified technician or surveyor to ensure that hidden damage has not occurred.
Grand Banks 2006: Inside Passage Tour
F E A TAvon,
U RZodiac
ED
SPONSORS
and Inflatable Boat Center
www.zodiacmarineusa.com
Lightning strikes are a frightening reality. The
threat of strikes are not to be taken lightly.
To sum up, the consensus among experts
indicates that every boat, whether power
or sail, should have at least some minimum
grounding system, and that during storms,
nonessential equipment be unplugged. It is
also agreed that the crew are much safer below decks and away from ungrounded metal
objects. If a strike does occur, it is best to
secure the boat and head for the dock for a
thorough inspection.
Avon and Zodiac RIBs, with their large diameter
tubes and well-designed hulls, provide exceptional
stability, buoyancy and comfort. A long time favorite
of Trawler and Sailboat owners, Avon RIBs feature
non-skid inner decks, bow lockers and chunky rub strakes. Three builtin lifting points make it easy and convenient to bring your Avon RIB on
board, or lower it into the water.
Zodiac Fastrollers with Acti-V™ hulls feature the same ride and
rigid hull characteristics of a RIB in a patented H2P inflatable hull.
Collapses like an inflatable, but rides like a RIB.
You can purchase either brand at Inflatable Boat Center,
where the customer service and selection is among the
best in the Nation. As a Grand Banks Yacht owner
himself, Ron Mauselle has over 25 years of
experience matching inflatable boats to his
customers’ needs.
Experience the best pedigrees in the world of inflatable
boating – Avon, Zodiac and IBC.
Call Inflatable Boat Center today:
(503) 235-2628
2041 SE Powell Blvd, Portland
www.inflatableboats.com
AVON products feature a 10-year limited warranty;
Zodiacs feature a 5-year limited warranty.
> M O RE A BO U T L A RRY C RO U C H
A professional skipper, rigger and boat-builder, Larry is
GBʼs Service Manager. A former repair yard superintendent in Seabrook, Texas, he is also a former liveaboard
with thousands of miles of bluewater experience.
10’ AVON ROVER RIB 310
with optional center console
In the next issue, Larry will discuss overland shipping.
28
spray volume 6 issue 1
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
© 2006 Zodiac of North America, Inc. All rights reserved.
Since the beginning of American Marine News and continuing the tradition in
Spray we like to honor the owners of new and used Grand Banks around the
world. We salute the “experienced” GB owners and the newbies and wish
merry and safe cruising to all.
beachcombing
David & Heather Ballaine
Catalina Charters
Frank Arndorfer & Ronda Heppe
Michael Parker & David Kingsbury
Bob & Kathy Wilkins
Ross & Cody Jones
Bainbridge Island, Washington
42EU, hull #1490, Gypsy
Agent:
Tony Witek
Southern England
42MY, hull #1430, Monroe
Agent:
Andrew Frasier
Boat Showrooms
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
46CL, hull #259, La Nostra
Agent:
Harvey Caplin
Larsen Marine Services
Southampton, England
46CL, hull #258, Grand Cru
Agent:
Colin Watts
Boat Showrooms
Sewell, New Jersey
43HX, hull #111, Ocean Rose
Agent:
Steve Fithian
Hal Jones & Company
Gulf Stream, Florida
43HX, hull #106, Papillon
Agent:
Steve Fithian
Hal Jones & Company
After 50 years of boating in and
around the Pacific Northwest,
Heather and David “chased the
offshore dream” and spent three
years sailing to New Zealand from
Seattle.
The last Grand Banks 42MY was
recently delivered in Europe to its
new owner Catalina Charters in
southern England. Named Monroe it will be cruised extensively
through Northern Europe in captained charters.
Frank and Ronda took delivery of
their new 46 Classic in Waukegan,
Illinois, in time to attend the Great
Lakes Grand Banks Owners Association Rendezvous in St. Ignace,
Michigan.
After a spell as the Grand Banks
European demonstrator, 46CL
#258 was sold to proud new owners, Michael Parker and David
Kingsbury. Based on the southern
coast of England between Southampton and Poole, the owners
christened her, Grand Cru.
Bob Wilkins of Sewell, New Jersey
took delivery of his 2006 Grand
Banks 43 Eastbay HX Hull #111,
Ocean Rose in January, 2006.
Ross and Cody Jones of Gulf
Stream, Florida, took delivery
of their brand new 2006 Grand
Banks 43 Eastbay HX, hull #106.
Bob has put his heart and soul into
making the Ocean Rose a highly
customized yacht for live-aboard
cruising, as he will spend half a
year or more onboard.
Papillon (French for “butterfly”)
was christened in December 2005.
After returning from their adventure, the couple lived in Central
Oregon and went sans boat for
several years. Missing life on the
water, the Ballaines returned to
the Puget Sound and bought an
nearly-new 42EU.
They are looking forward to cruising on Gypsy through Washington,
British Columbia, and all the way
to southeast Alaska.
The photograph above shows
broker Andrew Fraser of Boat
Showrooms handing over the keys
to the captain who will be responsible for looking after the boat on
a daily basis.
Catalina Charters specialize in
providing luxury breaks to the
entertainment industry within the
United Kingdom.
After years of sailing, they moved
from a Hunter 42 to their first
power boat. They called her La
Nostra (translated as, Sheʼs Ours)
and she is a honey. Her interior is
elegantly customized with all the
desired creature comforts, and
they love entertaining aboard.
Frank and Ronda took her to Lake
Michigan for her first shakedown
cruise last summer.
David is no stranger to Grand
Banks having previously owned
36CL, hull #274 for a number of
years.
Bob and Kathy have already
cruised the Florida Keys and are
presently in the Bahamas for the
next few months.
Ross and Cody have already
taken Papillon on many trips to the
Florida Keys and plan on cruising
the Bahamas and New England
during the summers.
La Nostraʼs permanent berth will
be in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Celebrating GBʼs 50th Year
spray volume 6 issue 1
31
T h an k s f o r 50 Year s
Most
companies
consider
a
major
anniversary to be another chance to tell
their own story — to toot their own horns,
as it were. And while we at Grand Banks
are apt to blast the Kahlenberg a few times
ourselves, we believe a true anniversary
is the celebration of a very special
relationship.
In that spirit, we would rather take this
opportunity to recognize something more
meaningful than our own achievements.
We want to celebrate the distinguished
community of loyal Grand Banks owners
around the world.
Talk about lasting devotion. In a business
that competes hard for every last customer,
weʼre blessed with a group of owners
who are wonderfully passionate about
our boats. Every Grand Banks we build
is better thanks to the invaluable input of
our owners. Each new design is the result
of this unique relationship, our attempt to
satisfy perhaps the most demanding and
discerning boaters on the water today.
This 50th anniversary year is filled with
important developments for Grand Banks.
Exciting
new
models,
major
events,
innovative ideas. But most of all, we want
to dedicate this year to our most significant
other — the owners, past and present, of
the many yachts we have built these past
fifty years.
Thank you for fifty years of support!
GRANDBANKS.COM/50years