Funfactor

The newest model from Mac Boats is a versatile family runabout that lends itself equally easily to fishing, diving, cruising – and perhaps even a little lightweight skiing.

It’s been years since I’ve stepped aboard a Mac roto-moulded polyethylene (PE) powerboat, let alone reviewed one. But then it’s been a while since Mac Boats has released a new model. The Mac 470 Sportfisher is just that: a new addition to the Mac Boats range that falls neatly between its 420 and 570 models.

The Mac 470 incorporates Galloway International Limited’s latest design ideas and is quite a step up from the early boats I tried years ago. At 4.7m long, it’s a manageable runabout that’s easy to handle and doesn’t require too much horsepower.

Like most other boats in the Mac range, the 470 Sportfisher has wraparound moulded pontoons, sealed and foam-filled for buoyancy. The floor is Nautilex vinyl non-slip covered marine plywood fixed to the hull’s box-section longitudinal beams. Water in the cockpit drains into the bilges where it’s removed by an electric bilge pump.

TOUGH-AS

Polyethylene has many advantages for boat builders: the material can be moulded (or welded from sheets), it’s tough, easy to repair and offers superb longevity. PE boats never need painting and are extremely low maintenance.

Mac boats are roto-moulded with foam-filled double skins and have no problems meeting New Zealand survey if required – Galloway already has plan-approval for the 470. The boats also meet Australian category C2 survey requirements and are exported around the world. The latest consignment of three container-loads of boats is heading to the Philippines.

DEEP VEE HULL

Mac’s 470 Sportfisher benefits from a 22° (at the transom) deep vee hull with a fine entry. Two moulded strakes work in concert

side of the bait board angle back over the stern, suitable for strayline fishing.

crossed other boats’ wakes and with a deadrise aft of 22o it should travel comfortably in a chop.

ATTRACTIVE PACKAGE

While sealed pontoons offer a welcome safety boost, at 4.7m the Mac 470 Sportfisher is a small runabout and therefore most suitable for use in sheltered waters. However, its versatile open layout, pleasant, safe handling, low maintenance and modest pricing should make it attractive to coastal divers, fishers and families boating on a budget. As reviewed the boat retails for just under $35,000; packages begin at around $32,000 with a Honda 60hp four-stroke.

The Mac 470 Sportfisher is supplied on a galvanised steel Road King unbraked trailer, custom built for Mac Boats with bunks to properly support the polyethylene hull. All up towing weight is around 600kg. Hydraulic brakes are a factory option. B www.galloway.co.nz.