A deeper WASSP

WASSP LTD – THE NEW ZEALAND- based manufacturer of multibeam technology – has released the F3L, a new lowfrequency wideband 80 khz system.

The WASSP F3L follows the release of the 160 khz F3 last year which is aimed at the coastal fishing market. F3L now provides a solution for users who require greater depth capabilities.

The F3L uses the new digital DRX hardware, the latest CDX software and utilises the backward compatible WASSP 80 khz (Chirp 68-92 khz) transducer. It will give users a full swath coverage to 450m and maximum nadir depth of 900m.

Like the F3, the F3L is also available as an “i” version, supplied with the WASSP Integrated heading and motion sensors for a turnkey solution.

Both models in the F3 range benefit from significant software and hardware development to improve overall performance and user interface ensuring efficiency and increased productivity in all fishing methods employed. www.enl.co.nz

“I wanted to build stylish, customisable RIBS equipped with the best gear available that would be easy for crews to use and maintain, while providing the looks and performance to appeal to European buyers,” explains Johnny.

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Boating NZ travelled to magnificent Matauri Bay just north of Tutukaka to sample a pair of JP Custom 800 RIBS, both Generation Two wide-bodied models, but configured differently. The main subject of this review is a JP Custom 800 with a single Mercury Verado 350hp outboard.

It’s destined for a South Island owner who will use it to commute to his Tasman Bay beach house. This RIB is one of two New Zealand orders for JP RIBS, complementing boats already delivered to customers in Europe and several expressions of interest from Australian buyers.

Warren Hay Marine in Whangarei is responsible for rigging the boat, although the second RIB on display, equipped with a new 400hp Verado, was set up by Marineworx in Auckland. The company will also rig subsequent vessels.

The Nelson boat differs from the other in a number of areas. It’s a wide-body design with different deck mouldings and bimini treatment with D-section pontoons aft to give it a more workable boarding platform and a larger cockpit to better suit the New Zealand boating lifestyle. The tubes extend a little further aft than on the sports boat and this version is around 200kg heavier. Under the floor is a 260-litre fuel tank with the filler outside the boat.

The Custom 800 impresses on a number of levels. The standard of fit and finish is high, as is JP RIBS’ attention to detail. The Edgars have used considerable care in designing the deck and