MORE AND MORE FROM MERCURY

Mercury Marine’s product and brand range continues to grow, covering all aspects of boating — from outboards to Bermuda aluminium boats, and the unsinkable Boston Whaler range.

The 480 Island Shore is one of the many impressive models in Bermuda’s new best value boat range.

Following their launch last year, Mercury’s Verado supercharged 4 stroke engines revolutionised outboard propulsion, and it continues in 2005 with the release of the 135, 150 and 175 hp models.

The newest members of the Verado 4 stroke family augment the 6 cylinder 200, 225, 250 and 275 hp engines, providing Mercury with a complete line-up of 4 stroke power.

The new Verados are designed for all boats with the appropriate transom rating. They are available in 20 and 25” shaft lengths, and the latter is offered with standard and counter rotation for dual-engine applications.

The new Verado models are built on a 1.7 L inline 4 cylinder platform, rather than the inline 6 cylinder configuration of the higher horsepower models. The base engine is otherwise quite similar to the larger Verados, with dual overhead cams, 4 valves per cylinder and the bedplate-and-longbolt design often seen in Formula 1 race cars.

This state-of-the-art concept yields maximum rigidity and durability from a compact package. Verado has electronically controlled sequential multi-port fuel injection for the ultimate in turn-key starting, and smooth, efficient operation. This inherently stable design, coupled with patented sound-dampening technology, also makes for a remarkably quiet engine.

Super-tough and feature-packed — that’s Boston Whaler’s 235 Conquest.

Like the 6 cylinder models, the 4 cylinder also boasts a supercharged and intercooled design to produce Verado’s signature torque and superior performance. The instantaneous throttle response is controlled and further enhanced by the standard Mercury-exclusive SmartCraft Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS). DTS uses a data cable rather than a mechanical push/pull cable to provide smooth, precise shifts and no-lag throttle control for an engineered driving experience.

SmartCraft is also a standard feature. Developed by Mercury, it provides boaters with vessel management information and boat operation that was barely dreamed of a few years ago.

A control module on the SmartCraft computer communicates with the DTS system and the engine. Coupled with Navman premium fish finders and navigational systems, all the information the driver could want is literally at the touch of a button.

It’s possible to add electro-hydraulic power steering similar to the 200-275 hp Verado, coupling a power steering pump with the universal cylinder.

The 135-175 hp Mercury and Mariner Verado models will be released as 2006 model year products, and all Verado models are 3-Star Ultra-Low rated by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for long-term emissions compliance.

For more information, visit www.marineverado.com.au, www.mercurymarine.com.au or call 1800 110 950

BERMUDA VALUE BOATING PACKAGES

The Mercury Marine boat group has developed a new range of Bermuda aluminium boats. This new family reflects the quality consumers have come to expect from the Mercury Marine boat group and boasts the latest in contemporary styling.

From the 312 Tailor open dinghy to the 540 Sea Odyssey bowrider, the new Bermuda range has a model to suit all kinds of applications — from fishing to cruising or water sports.

Dinghies, V-punts, punts, deluxe V-boats, side consoles, centre consoles, runabouts, bowriders and cuddy cabins… there are over 35 models to choose from!

To make life even easier, the specialists at Bermuda and Mercury Marine have undertaken detailed testing to optimise the range of Bermuda aluminium boat, motor and trailer packages. Many of the larger models now incorporate a 3 piece windscreen design, which, coupled with the new Bermuda graphics, gives these aluminium boats an especially sleek look.

The 135-175 hp Verado 4 stroke models are available in 20 and 25” shaft lengths — and the latter is offered with standard and counter rotation for dual-engine applications.

Some outstanding features of the range include a new style transom to accommodate the latest in engine technology, and many models are packaged with a Navman sounder and marine radio. There’s a 3 year warranty on boat and outboard motor, and an Australian standards-approved Bermuda underfloor polyurethane fuel tank.

The best-value Bermuda boat packages also have many optional extras, so you can personalise your Bermuda with biminis, tonneau covers, hydraulic steering, SmartCraft gauges for Mercury/Mariner OptiMax packages, and a range of automotive style metallic paint colours.

For more information, contact Bermuda on 1800 114 800, or visit www.mercurymarine.com.au

BOSTON WHALER 235 CONQUEST

The 235 Conquest is the newest member of Boston Whaler’s unsinkable cabin boat series, and like all Boston Whalers it’s packed with features.

Thanks to an innovative asymmetrical transom design, this 7.5 m trailerable cuddy cabin has ample room for fighting fish or entertaining guests onboard. The port transom sports an integral standard livewell, while the starboard transom area is open for fighting fish or unobstructed access to the boarding platform.

On the centreline is a comfortable stern seat big enough to accommodate 2 adults. When not in use, the stern seat folds flush to the motor well rail to create an expansive cockpit.

Other features of the 235 Conquest include an easy-to-negotiate, wide, recessed bow walkaround and a comfortable cuddy cabin with V-berth, head and storage.

The helm area features 2 adjustable pedestal seats with ample room between them for convenient cabin access. There are port and starboard side storage bins and drink holders within arm’s reach of each seat.

At the helm, the angled dash promotes visibility of switches, gauges and the optional factory-installed Navman and Northstar flush-mounted electronics. The dash mounting space can accommodate up to 2 large displays and a VHF radio.

Its two-piece tempered glass windshield is designed to promote visibility while sitting or standing. A windshield wiper is standard, as is the moulded footrest for the skipper. The helm side also features a storage pocket moulded into the dash with a 12 V socket.

The passenger side includes a fold-down footrest and a beefy stainless steel grab rail that serves as a hand-hold while underway or when entering or exiting the cabin via the lockable companionway door.

Within the cabin is a V-berth with a removable filler cushion to accommodate two adults. A standard head with deck pump-out stows beneath the centre section of the V-berth. Cabin interior materials include superior grade marine vinyls and smooth-moulded surfaces for low maintenance and enhanced longevity.

Three storage compartments are located beneath the V-berth cushions. Each side also features folding rod racks so fishing gear can be secured in the cabin without obstructing sleeping accommodation.

A large foredeck hatch and port and starboard portholes promote ventilation and provide natural light in addition to the standard lighting provided. A small storage space with a 12 V socket is located in the cabin area adjacent to the battery switch. The battery switch is situated in the cabin for weather protection, but positioned so that it’s easily accessible from the helm deck.

Like all Boston Whalers, the 235 Conquest is unsinkable due to its unique Unibond foam-filled construction. It’s also covered by a transferable 10 year limited hull warranty.

For an additional feeling of security, the recessed bow walkaround is flanked by a sturdy, welded, 316 stainless steel rail and an aggressive non-skid pattern covering the walkway.

Standard power is a 225 hp Mercury OptiMax outboard engine with digital SmartCraft instrumentation. Complemented by a 460 L fuel capacity, the 235 Conquest ensures ample range for offshore fishing.

In terms of performance, the boat features a smooth, dry ride with quick planing characteristics afforded by its exclusive Accutrack hull design. Its deep V hull entry cleanly slices through waves and chop to soften the ride in rough water.

Spray generated by the hull is deflected by the distinctive Whaler ‘smirk’ design that redirects spray, producing an extremely dry ride rather than having spray being blown into the cockpit.

Small touches can make a big difference in your enjoyment on the water. For example, the 235 Conquest’s standard stainless steel toe rails port and starboard help keep passengers onboard while boating fish. Optional coaming bolsters pad the gunwales for comfort when anglers lean over the side or brace while fighting a fish. Aft bolsters are standard.

Port and starboard 95 L capacity in-deck storage compartments/fish boxes are insulated to preserve ice longer. The compartments feature gas assist shocks for opening and closing the hatches, gaskets to reduce noise, and gutters to keep the contents drier.

Under gunwale port and starboard rod racks help keep the cockpit tidy, instantly converting the boat from a fishing machine to an entertainment platform.

Although most features are standard on the 235 Conquest, notable options include a hardtop with electronics box; cockpit floodlight; dome light; 4 rod holders; weather curtains; boarding platform with telescopic ladder; a Clarion AM/FM digital stereo with CD player and 4 waterproof speakers and factory installed Navman and Northstar electronics.

For more information visit: www.whaler.com