Archive for January 2010

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• 26 January 2010
  Icom Managers to Raise Money for Pilgrims Hospices at Silverstone Half Marathon
  

  Two of Icom UK’s managers are to take on the challenge of running a Half Marathon at the historic Silverstone Racing circuit in March 2010. Jerry Kelk (IT Manager) and Ian Lockyer (Marketing Manager) will be running in aid of Pilgrims Hospices based in East Kent.

  The pair will be running the Silverstone Half Marathon which is run by the organisers of the London Marathon. The course is set across the world famous Formula 1 tarmac that has seen legends such as Mansell, Villeneuve and Schumacher win some of their greatest Formula 1 motor racing titles. The race acts as an integral part of the build up to the Virgin London Marathon and provides not only a warm up to the marathon runners, but a terrific opportunity for runners of all abilities to experience the flavour of a large scale running event.

  Jerry and Ian are both newcomers to road running, having started about 8 months ago. Ian Lockyer said,’ I started running because I was putting too much weight on. I got to a stage where my clothes were becoming too tight and I thought enough was enough and joined a running club. Eight months on and we are now starting to hit the dizzy heights of running 10 miles; 13 will be a challenge!’

  Jerry Kelk said,’ We are both training very hard for this course so that we don’t let our supporters down. Having a great charity to run for gives us the motivation to get out on our training runs in our lunch hours and on those cold winter nights.’

  Pilgrims Hospices is a charity providing palliative care free of charge to people in East Kent. The charity cares for patients with a range of terminal illnesses including cancer, heart failure, respiratory conditions and neurological diseases. Care is provided at its three sites in Canterbury, Ashford and Thanet, in patients’ homes and via community programmes. Care is also extended to families and carers.

  Ian said, ’I think that most people in East Kent have been touched by the fantastic work that the Hospice does. In fact, my own father in law died in the Pilgrims Hospices in Thanet and our family is very grateful for the dignified and comfortable end to his life.’

  Deborah Kellond, Regional Fundraising Manager from Pilgrims Hospices says, ‘We are delighted that Jerry and Ian are turning their newfound passion for running into a great fundraising opportunity for Pilgrims Hospices. The money they raise from the Silverstone Half Marathon will help us to keep delivering the palliative care, free of charge, to the people of East Kent. We wish them the very best of luck!’

  Phil Hadler, Managing Director of Icom UK Ltd said,’ Jerry and Ian can be seen going out at lunchtime for their running. This shows admirable spirit and a great commitment to getting fit. Everyone at Icom wishes them all the best in their challenge.’

  If you would like to support their fundraising please click here

• 23 January 2010
  MA-500TR Class B AIS Transponder, Coming Soon!
  

  Since its introduction, AIS (Automatic Identification System) has been rapidly taken up as an essential safety aid, especially as shipping lanes have become busier. Primarily used by commercial shipping for identification and location, the AIS system exchanges information such as MMSI number, position, course, and speed. Today with the introduction of the MA-500TR AIS transponder, owners of leisure and small craft can benefit from this safety technology.

  The MA-500TR is a compact, waterproof Class B AIS Transponder which actively notifies other vessels of your exact position. The MA-500TR also has a dual channel receiver allowing boat owners to receive AIS information (both Class A and Class B AIS signals) on two channels simultaneously. This real-time information is then displayed on its large, backlit full dot-matrix display giving the boatowner real-time vessel traffic information thus aiding navigation and collision avoidance.

  The MA-500TR’s compact size means that it can for example be installed in a convenient place near the chart table, in the wheelhouse, on the fly bridge or on a pedestal in the cockpit. The MA-500TR features large, easy to use, backlit buttons that will make it easy to operate even in tough conditions. The MA-500TR can be integrated with the Icom IC-M505/IC-M603* allowing you to transmit DSC individual calls to a selected vessel instantly without manual MMSI entry; very handy in an emergency. The MA-500TR AIS data output uses the NMEA 0183 format for easy  connectivity to most radars, chart plotters, and navigation systems.

  The MA-500TR has several collision-risk management functions. It identifies a target list (those in a local area), dangerous list (those you could potentially collide with) and what the closest point of approach is. A collision alarm and external alarm connection to optional external audio equipment gives the boatowner extra warning of potential impact.

  Visitors to the London Boatshow 2010 will be able to see preview products of the MA-500TR on Icom UK stand (N031J). The MA-500TR should be in the shops by the start of the season. No price has yet been set. An optional 3 year warranty will be available for customers who complete their details online.

  Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager at Icom UK Ltd said,’ The MA-500TR does what it says on the tin. It’s compact, easy to use and its clear dot matrix display means that it is easy to view other vessel traffic and information. It is the ideal transponder/receiver for any boatowner who wants to make a more informed navigational decision when out at sea. The unit can be integrated with either Icom’s IC-M505* or IC-M603* allowing you to make an individual DSC call instantly from the MA-500TR.’

• 23 January 2010
  ONGOING SUCCESS OF MASTERVOLT LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES MEANS MORE CHOICE AND A CONSIDERABLE REDUCTION IN PRICE
  

  Mastervolt, the Dutch-based manufacturer of premium electrical equipment, has seen a huge surge in the sales of its unique Lithium-Ion battery.  As a result, the Company has been able to develop new products within the Lithium-Ion range, and also begin to reduce the price by around 20%.

  Lithium-Ion is half the weight of water, yet able to store a large amount of power, so has traditionally been used for portable electrical devices such as laptops and mobile phones. Mastervolt was the first Company to upscale the technology into a full-sized marine version, providing boat owners with a 24-volt 8-cell battery, which is three times lighter than a conventional lead acid equivalent, with three times the life cycle.

  Mastervolt’s Lithium-Ion technology also represents excellent value for money. Whilst initially more than three times more expensive than an equivalent lead -acid gel battery, the Li-ion can also be discharged far deeper without damage, so is a far better long-term investment. Thanks to a highly sophisticated built-in power balancing system, it is also extremely safe and durable.

  With the success of its 24-volt model, which has proved particularly popular with blue water yachtsmen and electric boat enthusiasts, Mastervolt is in the final stages of developing a 12-volt version. It is the same height and width, yet half the length of its bigger sister. The new battery will have all of the attributes of the 24-volt model, such as integrated carrying handles, shielded connection posts and neat ducting along the top, which hides away the connecting cables.  More details will be available prior to the launch in mid-2010.

  “Increased production of raw Lithium, due to its wider usage, has resulted in a reduction in pricing, and therefore we are able to benefit from the economies of scale,” explained Technical Director John De Rijk, who spearheads the Mastervolt Lithium-Ion programme. “We are also able to bring new products to market, such as the smaller 12-volt battery. Boats of all types are being fitted with increasing amounts of electrical equipment, and Lithium-Ion has so much to offer in terms of huge weight savings, deep discharging without damage, and a very long life.”

  Marketing Manager Marc Persoon remarked, “We have been delighted with the success of the Lithium-Ion battery. We’re working hard to develop ever more efficient equipment for the exciting world of hybrid drives and for self-sufficient power installations in general. Lithium-Ion is a key element in that research. We can now produce smaller batteries with the same unique advantages of the 24-volt model. For reliable, long-term power without a weight penalty, Lithium-Ion is definitely the marine battery of the future – and it’s now an even better investment.”

  The Mastervolt 24-volt Li-Ion battery now retails at £4,600 + VAT.

• 23 January 2010
  SM GROUP (Europe) Ltd appointed as Maretron Distributor for the United Kingdom and Ireland
  

  SM GROUP (Europe) Ltd., the United Kingdom’s specialist distributor of a comprehensive catalogue of marine electronics, are delighted to announce their appointment as the Maretron distributor for the United Kingdom and Ireland.  Maretron designs, manufacturers and markets leading-edge networked electronics for the marine market. Maretron’s products are designed to the open industry NMEA 2000® standard, which allows electronic equipment from diverse manufacturers to be networked together for sharing information throughout the vessel.

  Maretron’s corporate philosophy is to provide premium quality, state-of-the-art marine electronics that work together with traditional navigation techniques for the highest level of safety and performance while boating.

  Alex Longworth Technical Sales Manager of SM GROUP (Europe) Ltd commented “This is terrific news, the Maretron range of NMEA 2000 products fits comfortably into our expansive portfolio of products and compliments rather than competes with other products in our range. The concept of NMEA 2000 compatibly grows each year and the  Maretron range allows the networking and expansion of integrated systems from different manufacturers which the boat owner now demands”

  Says Larry Anderson, Maretron’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “Maretron’s partnership with SM GROUP should allow us to grow our distribution network exponentially in the UK and Ireland. Not only will SMG bring a fresh focus into their geographical marine electronics marketplace, but they also enable Maretron’s new generation of affordable Vessel Monitoring Systems to be seriously introduced in the UK,”

  Established in 1973, SM GROUP is a leading distributor of specialist electronic equipment for the Marine, Automotive and Outdoor Pursuit markets. SM GROUP officially launched the Maretron product line at the London International Boat Show at the Excel Centre in London, UK.

  For detailed product information visit www.maretron.com.

• 23 January 2010
  Sunseeker selects Raymarine E Series Widescreen Multi-Function Displays on show boats
  

  Raymarine’s new E-Series Widescreen multifunction display with HybridTouch was the product of choice on three of the boats on display at the recent Tullett Prebon London Boat Show.  The new Portofino 48, the Predator 54 and the Predator 60 all featured the new displays.

  Nick Lean of Sunseeker said, ‘The demand for the new Raymarine E Series Widescreen by Sunseeker clients has been high and resulted in three boats displaying them at the show. With the new look, HybridTouch and product functionality our clients are selecting this new product on a number of newly ordered Sunseekers.’

  He also said that any Sunseeker normally fitted with an E Series will in future be sporting the new E Series Widescreen, adding that many clients are requesting the largest E140W model to be fitted. 

  The new E Series Widescreen is now available for customers worldwide, and its unique HybridTouch – combining touch screen technology with traditional hard key operation – enables quick and easy access to fast and accurate data.  The E Series Widescreen is exceptionally easy to use, with its refined interface, quick-to-learn functions, visually dynamic graphics and intuitive menus.

• 23 January 2010
  Have you claimed your BMF Training Grant?
  

  All BMF members are eligible to apply for an annual BMF Training Grant.  The BMF values training highly and encourages companies to make the most of training opportunities to enhance and improve skills, which in turn will lead to better results for your company.  This is especially important in today’s economic climate, when training your staff can give you the edge over your competitors.  Every BMF member company is therefore entitled to apply for training grants for training attended by employees, to help you improve your business.

  There are certain criteria for applying:

  •Companies with less than five employees:  You can apply for 50% of the course fee, up to the value of £500.  All training can be considered.
  •Companies with more than five employees:  You can apply for 30% of the course fee, up to the value of £500.  Courses must be non-statutory, non-regulatory and not related essential qualifications that are required to meet basic operation needs.
  •No company will be awarded grants in any one financial year amounting to more than £500.
  A BMF training grant really does make a difference!  A certain budget is allocated for the training grant pot, which is next due to be re-stocked in the new financial year (1 July).  Therefore, don’t delay and apply for a BMF training grant today!

  For further information on training grants, please contact Liv Whetmore on (01784) 223631 or e-mail:  lwhetmore@britishmarine.co.uk.

• 23 January 2010
  Tens of thousands of core boaters to ExCeL London
  

  Tens of thousands of core boaters made the trip to ExCeL London to view the excellent range of products on show; despite the appalling weather upsetting visitors’ plans to attend the early days of the event.  44,500 visitors streamed through the gates over the final three days and resulted in a final attendance figure of 102,655*, which is 9% behind the 2009 event.

  “To have welcomed over 100,000 visitors to the 2010 Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show, considering such adverse weather, has been reassuring for the Show and importantly the marine industry,” said Andrew Williams, Managing Director of National Boat Shows.  “Indeed, to have opened the Show on time at 10am last Friday (8 January), with exhibitors and the Show ready and waiting was an amazing achievement in itself.  Feedback has been exceptional and despite a quiet few days at the beginning, the atmosphere within the halls and support from the exhibitors has been superb.”

  Visitors to the Show enjoyed over 500 exhibitors and almost 1,000 boats; witnessed over 80 new product launches including 18 global debuts; were captivated by high energy dance extravaganza ‘Rock the Boat’; enjoyed seeing the Corps of Royal Engineers performing high-speed manoeuvres on the Royal Victoria Dock; and were enthralled by hit ITV1 show X Factor stars Olly Murs and Stacey Solomon who performed live on the Show Stage powered by Fairline to officially open the Show, and again on Late Night Thursday.

  Participation at the event has also been important.  450 people went diving, 320 visitors tried canoeing over the weekends and 2,500 raced model boats.  The BMF’s new initiative On The Water gave boating advice to over 1,000 visitors, from how to start boating, to what to upgrade to.  In addition, the Marine Trades Association’s Boating on a Budget project raised over £18,000 to help Burnham-on-Crouch house its new RNLI lifeboat.

  Paul Strzelecki, Chairman of National Boat Shows said: “This Show has been a credit to our industry and those who work in it.  We have met the dual challenges of terrible weather and a difficult economy with a spirit of positivity and enthusiasm which ensures that we start 2010 with renewed optimism, looking forward to the PSP Southampton Boat Show in September.”

  Terry Smith, Chief Executive of title sponsor Tullett Prebon said: “Tens of thousands of people in the UK regularly participate in both recreational and competitive watersports.  The UK marine industry is also big business, employing thousands and exporting products across the world.  Members of the British Marine Federation are world leaders in the design and construction of yachts, power boats and their accessories and this is an industry of which all in the UK can be proud.  “As such it is important for the industry in the UK to have a high profile annual exhibition to showcase the products and services it provides, and this year’s Show was no exception.”

  Consultation with exhibitors regarding the development of the London International Boat Show has been going on throughout the week.  This has identified many new concepts and ideas and NBS will be developing these into plans to ensure the Show continues to go from strength to strength, delivering such a vital showcase for the UK marine industry.

  With such a relevant audience making it to this year’s Show, exhibitors have been reporting strong sales and much positive interest.  Indeed, within hours of the Show opening last Friday, Nautique Marine announced the sale of a 20ft Nautique 200.

  Claire Horsman, Northshore: “Southerly was very pleased again with this year’s Show.  In spite of the appalling weather conditions at the beginning of the week our stand, even though bigger than last year, was constantly full of people eager to learn about the Southerly 49 with its unique swing keel.  Overall, Southerly has had a very successful Show and surpassed our sales targets.  We noticed a distinct mix of serious international visitors at the Show and we are planning a larger stand for 2011.”

  Michel Francois, Jeanneau:  “Considering the weather conditions we have had a good Show.  Combining sail and power onto one stand has worked well for us and we look forward to working with NBS to further develop our presence next year and beyond.” 

  Peter Thomas, Sales Manager, Cornish Crabbers LLP:  “The Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show provides an excellent opportunity to showcase our boats at a key time leading up to the new sailing season. This year has proved no exception with our sales targets achieved and overwhelming enquiries into our new Crabber 26 giving great encouragement.  We now go into the New Year with a seven month order book and a line of firm enquiries that will take us through to the PSP Southampton Boat Show in September.  A well organised Show which has overcome the weather and financial conditions to provide a confident display to the boat buying public. Well done BMF and NBS.”

  Miles Moorhouse, Fairline:  “We’re experiencing a bumper year, selling across the range from big to small to clients from all over the world.  We met our sales target for the Show before the final weekend.”

  David Howard, Aqua-dock:  “This has been the first show for Aqua-dock.  We’ve been thrilled with the results, taking a number of orders together with enquiries from all parts of the world.  In uncertain economic times, it’s rewarding to sell a British made product at a truly British show.”

  Richard Pillow, Personal Touch:  “We were pleased to see the dedicated visitors who came to the Show the first weekend.  We managed to take a bigger stand at the Show, thanks to NBS’ ECD scheme, and this proved fruitful as Saturday (16 January) was our best ever sales day including all the years at Earls Court.  Overall, we’re up on last year’s sales figures.”

• 23 January 2010
  Raymarine announces new Service Dealer appointments for its next generation boat charting and radar technology products
  

  Following a challenging but successful year in Ireland in 2009, Raymarine is looking to build on its success in its core leisure and light commercial marine markets in this region in 2010.

  To provide its Irish customer base with better access to sales advice, products, and after sales support, Raymarine has strengthened its Dealer Network with Colin Coady Marine and Niki Potterton Marine Electrical appointed as Service Dealers in the Dublin area.  Martek Ltd of Port Laoaise has been appointed to serve the burgeoning demand for marine electronics on light commercial vessels.

  These appointments are in addition to the well established Raymarine Service Dealer and Retail Centre network, and have been made to ensure Irish-based customers have easy access to the best technical advice, sales and product support.

  Marketing Manager for UK and Ireland Gemma Westcott says, “The recently launched HybridTouch™ and HD Digital Radomes have aroused great interest with Irish customers.  The networkable C-Series Wide, which was launched last year, has proved very popular and the E-Series HybridTouch and HD Digital Radomes are the next generation in boat charting and radar technology.”

  With its new technology and enhanced dealer network in place, Raymarine is strengthening its position to ensure the company remains the first choice for marine electronics in Ireland. For more information on Raymarine products and to find out where to get advice locally please visit www.raymarine.co.uk

• 23 January 2010
  New Course! NMEA 2000 Workshop
  

  This half day workshop is being held at Marine House, Egham on 27 January from 12:00 – 17:00.  It will cover the following points:

  •NMEA 2000® Characteristics
  •Physical Layer
  •Key Components of Network
  •Installation Issues
  •Certification of NMEA 2000 Products
  •How does CAN work

  Price: BMF members – £75.00 + VAT
  Non members – £99.00 + VAT

  For further details, please contact Liv Whetmore on (01784) 223631 or email:  lwhetmore@britishmarine.co.uk.

• 23 January 2010
  SES LAUNCHES SEAVIEW INSTRUMENT PODS
  

  Ships Electronic Services (SES), UK distributor for Seaview, launched the company’s stunning new range of Instrument Pods at the Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show. Seaview is the industry leader in navigation product mounting solutions producing an extensive range of mounts for all equipment manufacturers and mounting applications for boat sail and powerboats.

  The new instrument pods are constructed with a high quality marine grade white or black aluminum base and a UV resistant white ABS plastic housing. Full adjustment both horizontally, vertically and tilt is easily executed with the polished stainless steel quick release handles, easily accessible on the Seaview Pod display housing. This feature is functional and efficient and provides a clean, professional look at the helm station. The units’ special gasket ensures a water tight and secure installation. A Gore-Tex vent port facilitates ventilation, removing the chance for moisture build up. The Seaview Pods are available pre-cut, un-cut or customizable to a specific application.

  Boat owners benefit from being able to mount navigation electronics in exposed locations, yet maintaining the watertight integrity of their electronics, no more exposed sockets or cables to get damaged by moisture or get snagged by lines.

  SES is a comprehensive service, installation and electronics distributorship for many of the world’s most respected brands. With offices throughout the UK, SES supplies the leading boat builders, shipyards and suppliers.
    
  www.ses-marine.com

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