Polycraft's Roto-moulded polyethylene boat range

by Bob Wonders on 17 Jun 2008 Polycraft, the unique range of roto moulded, polyethylene boats is expanding its range to meet increasing demand, with two new models offered in various configurations set to be unveiled at the Sydney International Boat Show (July 31-August 5).

With industry identity Grainger McFarlane, a director of the Bundaberg-based company, at the helm Polycraft has been making solid progress, although water tanks, made in the same manner as the boat range, remain the company’s core business.

The two new models are the 4.80-metre Brumby and the 4.50-metre Drifter.

Each is available in a number of configurations; the Brumby can be specified with centre console, rear centre console, side console, front runner (runabout style) and even cuddy cabin for those seeking some protection from the elements.

The Drifter is offered as an open boat, in runabout style or with centre or side console. According to McFarlane customer feedback was the inspiration behind the creation of the Brumby and he believes it to be ‘the best’ Polycraft produced to date.

“We identified some key criteria that it had to satisfy,” he explained, “that included a full pod transom, straight internal walls, wide gunwales, stylish curved lines and a superior overall finish. “The full pod transom not only increases the boat’s safety attributes, but provides a better planing surface for more efficient running and performance,” he added.

Unmatched stability at rest, a dry ride and the ability to produce high speed turns are among the features claimed for the Brumby. Internal space has been maximised by incorporating the straightest internal walls yet employed by Polycraft, the end result being a larger boat internally and better support for anglers fishing from either side.

A popular feature from the larger Polycraft 5.30-metre Warrior in the form of a fold down aft lounge has been added to the Brumby.

Providing useable storage was another factor closely looked at and aboard the Brumby every available option to include stowage has been used, with bins aft in the transom gunwale, a large hatch forward and a recessed bin beneath that fold down aft lounge.

The consoles used on the Brumby have been designed to allow for improved instrument layout and the placement of marine electronics such as ‘sounders and GPS.

Recommended power for the Brumby is an 80hp outboard, though some anglers would find slightly less horsepower perfectly adequate.

The smaller 4.50-metre Drifter is rated to a 50hp outboard and like its larger stablemate is available with an excellent range of options and configurations, from centre console to side console, open boat to runabout style.

With a deep vee hull design the Drifter is suitable for a wide range of fishing and boating applications, from dams and estuaries through to open bays and inshore reefs.

Features worthy of mention include bow and hand rails, bow roller, two rod holders, front casting deck and a range of brilliant colours.

Factory options include carpeted floor, a rear casting deck insert, side pockets, ski hooks, a 70-litre under floor fuel tank with sender and foaming to survey standard.

A big plus to note – the Drifter can be towed by a conventional four-cylinder vehicle and is easily launched and retrieved by one person.

The manufacturing process is quite unique; produced from a one-piece mould, the polyethylene is converted by heat within the mould and the boat is then easily released. It remains an extremely environmentally friendly manufacturing process.

Durability, practicality, low maintenance and price are among the reasons for the expanding popularity of Polycraft.

For further information visit the website, www.polycraft.com.au