Family Boats appointed NZ’s first Zodiac ‘big RIB’ dealer
New Zealand and South Pacific Zodiac distributor, Lusty & Blundell Ltd, have chosen top Auckland marine dealer Family Boats to be their first “big RIB” retailer.
Family Boats, which is based in East Tamaki, will be selling Zodiac’s larger, Mediterranean-manufactured RIBs, ranging from the Open 3.1m centre console up to the impressive 7.5-metre Medline.
All will feature Zodiac’s renowned GRP hulls, top-quality UV-resistant Neoprene tubes and the company’s patented “thermo-bonding” manufacturing process, which offers unparalleled durability and seams that are virtually indestructible.
Family Boats’ Peter Carlson says he expects the Zodiac range to prove extremely popular.
“Kiwis love good quality RIBs,” he says, “and Zodiac has a great name and an ideal mix of luxury models and practical fishing and diving boats.”
He says the first Zodiac boats will be arriving over summer and include the top-of-the line Medline 6.8m and 7.5m models, a range of Yachtline luxury tenders, the popular Pro 5.5m, 6.5m and 7m and the practical fishing- and diving-focused Open 3.4m and 4.2m.
Widely considered the gold standard for inflatables and with 120 years of history, prestige and heritage, Zodiac inflatables have an impressive international reputation for their exceptional loading capacity, reassuring stability, space-saving portability and incomparable quality finishes. They are also the only manufacturer to have successfully mastered the fitting of a rubbing strake by welding, ensuring the boat is protected by from bumps and knocks and its passengers from spray.
Product information is available from Lusty and Blundell on (09) 415-8303 or at www.lusty-blundell.co.nz.
NIGEL SCOTT, ZODIAC EXPERT
ZODIAC FAN Nigel Scott, who has well over a decade’s experience selling and supporting Zodiac inflatables, will head up Lusty & Blundell’s sales and support team as its designated product expert.
“They were the original brand of inflatable boats and they are still the best,” he says, “and the tried and true quality of their materials, workmanship and technology is second to none. They are so good ‘Zodiac’ is virtually synonymous with ‘inflatable’.”
With a boatbuilding background and over 35 years experience in the marine industry, Nigel Scott is also a valuable addition to the wider Lusty & Blundell sales and support team.
“Nigel has worked extensively with all of these over a considerable period of time and his experience and knowledge is a huge asset for our company,” says sales director Cameron Maher.
Product information is available from Lusty and Blundell on (09) 415-8303.
EMISSIONS-FREE BOATING ZODIAC POWERED BY TORQEEDO
TWO NEW ZODIAC MODELS mark a new era for both Torqeedo and Zodiac.
“The eOpen range meets the needs of today’s customers: no maintenance, no noise, no servicing, less pollution, simple and responsive driving, and an affordable price. Electric mobility is gaining ground, and as the market leader in RIBs, we couldn't afford to miss out. Torqeedo was the ideal partner for us," says Fanny Revert-Ciavattini, Zodiac’s product marketing manager.
The Zodiac eOPEN range is easy to use, highly manoeuvrable and can maintain a speed of 12 knots for one hour at maximum power. With no noise or fumes, very little maintenance or upkeep and long-term savings, an eOPEN offers ecologically-responsible boating.
eOpen is available in 3.1m and 3.4m versions, complete with Torqeedo drive systems and four to six seats, depending on size.
www.torqeedo.com
Exhibitor demand strong for SCIBS 2021
The 32nd edition of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), to be held from May 20-23 at the vibrant Marine Village on the Gold Coast, is shaping up to be a beauty following the launch of exhibitor bookings in mid-December.
Among the prominent brands having already applied for prime on water positions are , Maritimo, Horizon, Princess Yachts, Integrity, Whitehaven, Eyachts, Azimut, Sunseeker, Hampton, Fairline, Palm Beach, Grand Banks, Fleming, Beneteau, Lagoon, Illiad, Mastercraft and Iliad.
Trailerable boats, watersports and inflatable craft will also have a strong presence in The Marine Village, with Quintrex, Yamaha, Jeanneau, JSW Powersports, Sea Doo, Stacer, AB, Northside Marine, Sailfish Catamarans, Voyager Catamarans, Aurora, Mercury, Zodiac, Honda and Mastercraft already on board.
The latest gear and gadgets will also be on display in the Pavilions, with notable brands such as Garmin, Fusion, Navionics, Raymarine, Seabreeze, Dometic, JL Audio, C-Map, Lowrance, Simrad, B&G, VETUS-Maxwell, International Paint, Awlgrip and HELLA quick to secure space.
Spaces are limited. To register as an exhibitor, visit www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au
