I guess it’s always comforting when you find someone else is thinking along the exact same lines as you are – but then of course, great minds do think alike! So it was, that two people at almost the same time, commissioned two separate boat-builders to build their ideal boat, based on the same design.
The ‘East Coast 32’ was a new design from Dovell Naval Architects, a studio already recognised for their modern design-twist on the US East Coast ‘lobster’ boat styling. First to take shape was ‘Stormy Weather’, built by Denman Marine at Kettering in Tasmania. While not far behind came ‘ELEKTRA’, built by Innovation Composites at Nowra NSW. Coincidentally both boats were commissioned with essentially day-cruising and occasional weekends on Sydney Harbour and Pittwater in mind. ‘Stormy’ was therefore the one that faced a long delivery trip.
The similarities continued with construction being based on strip plank timber with some very modern sheathing and resin techniques applied, enabling the character of timber construction to be experienced – but modern composites to ease the maintenance factors. The layout comprises a twin berth forward cabin with an enclosed head, transitioning to the main cabin/wheelhouse area where the helm seats are complimented by a lounge/day bed and a galley/storage space. This area can be divided from the cockpit by canvas/clears when overnighting.
While essentially a semi-displacement design, the fine entry and hard-chine vee hull promised a comfortable ride and efficient performance. This was confirmed, when first to hit the water ‘Stormy’, set some performance baselines – and was beautifully demonstrated in the smooth and level transition from displacement to planing speed. Needless to say, it wasn’t long before the respective owners were communicating. Not least in discussion was Stormy’s skipper endorsing his choice of a single STEYR SE156E26 150hp (110kw) six cylinder engine and ZF 45A (1.95:1) gearbox, pulling a five blade CNC prop.
The trip from Kettering to Sydney took ‘Stormy Weather’ and her crew of three, just three days; stopping at St Helen’s and Eden to refuel. With the motor also powering hydraulics and generators, max speed was established at a comfortable 20 knots – being precisely within the engine’s max RPM range. Backed with an economical cruising speed around 12 knots, the data presented an easy choice for Elektra’s owner to settle for similar power.
It has to be said that for a vessel of this style, size, application and power requirement, a four cylinder engine may have been considered – but the decision to go with the STEYR six cylinder engine, substantially enhances the fundamental quality of the vessel. When considering that choice, it is worth understanding the difference between four and six cylinder 4-stroke engines – two combustion pulses in each revolution (360°), relative to three in the same 360° which translates to vibration and sound being substantially reduced. Also consider the inherent balance of an inline six and the effect this has throughout the propulsion system! Ultimately the enhanced ‘smoothness’ is reflected in comfort and indeed fuel economy.
STEYR-Motors marine diesel engines are virtually unique in the marine sector, having been designed primarily for the marine application – they are not an auto engine ‘converted’! Distributing the product in Australia and SE Asia, STEYR-Motors Australia has forged a stellar reputation for supporting custom boat-builders, across the leisure and commercial sectors – and not least, sterling support in a range of defence applications.
As a final twist to the story, the naming of the two vessels also connects them beautifully: ‘Elektra’ (not to be confused with ‘Electra’) was the Goddess of ‘Stormy Clouds’ and wife of Sea God Thaumas. A great harmonising gesture by Elektra’s owner!
While honouring the Gods, ‘Stormy Weather’ and ‘ELEKTRA’ will surely serve to epitomize quiet, relaxed time on the water. Bon Voyage, two charming East Coast 32’s!