Williams Minijet

Package of upgrades revealed

Two years ago, Williams brought its jet tenders to a new audience with its super compact Minijet 280. As the name suggests, this pocketsized runabout measures just 2.8m (2.79 to be precise) and weighs just over 200kg, meaning it can squeeze on to mid-40-ft boats like the Prestige 450, yet its BRP Rotax Ace engine means it can provide the genuine Williams jet tender feel and even pull a skier.

It’s been so successful that it’s been treated to a package of upgrades for 2018. Most obvious is a more powerful motor, albeit only 5hp – but that’s more than 10%, and we’re assured it makes a big difference. Also new for 2018 is an upgraded dash cluster and a new set of sponsons that Williams says enhance stability.

Interestingly, Williams is also offering the upgrades as a pack to existing Minijet 280 owners. As before, it seats three with a jockey-style driver’s seat and a two-person bench ahead of the helm. Price from £13,762.88.

Contact www.williamsjettenders.com

Electric boat engine specialist Torqeedo has linked up with generator manufacturer Whisperpower to add the option of a quiet, range-extending diesel generator to its Deep Blue power system. The range extender means that when the Deep Blue’s powerful lithium-ion batteries run out you can still fire up the generator and carry on cruising. Whisperpower’s range extender 350V DC converter generator is fitted with a Mitsubishi S4Q2 4-cylinder diesel engine. It consumes only 25g of fuel per kwh of electricity produced and generates very little noise: just 54 db(a) at 7m, so shouldn’t spoil the peace and quiet of your electric boat. Price to be announced. Contact www.torqeedo.com