Latest Power Cat from 15.5m Pacific Power Cats delivered to Darwin

by Peter Brady on 14 Oct 2010 Peter Brady and Pacific Power Cats latest 'displaning' power cat in the form of a 15.5m Flybridge Cruiser designed and built by for ACP Fishing Pty Ltd has just successfully completed her maiden voyage from Brisbane to her home port of Darwin where she will operate in the charter market as either a day sports fishing for 18 guest's or long range fishing adventures around the top end for 8.

Named 'Bathurst' after the brig Phillip Parker King used to chart Australia's northern coast from 1817- 1822 the vessel is constructed from infused epoxy composites and is powered by 2 x Yanmar 6LY3A-STP 440hp diesels for a top speed of 26.5 knots fully loaded.

Peter Brady's fuel efficient 'displaning' hull form provides 'Bathurst' with the ability to cruise economically all the way through the range. This unique combination of long range (2500nm @ 8kts) makes her trans-ocean capable, for fast coastal passages her designed cruise speed of 17kts still only burns a miserly 66 litres per hour total, with 110lt total at 22 knots for day trips.

'Bathurst's' accommodation plan features 2 master cabins at bridgedeck level that can be set up as either queen doubles or 3 singles, plus a third double bedroom amidships and accommodation for 3 on the flybridge. The vessel is fully air-conditioned and equipped for comfortable long range adventuring, including washing machine, clothes dryer, dishwasher, wine fridge, water maker and a commercial sized icemaker to keep both the drinks and fish cold. Set up to explore and fish the Northern Territories many rivers, creeks and estuaries, 'Bathurst' carries up to two 4.7m tenders and features a very sophisticated Furuno electronics package including sonar and Flir infra-red camera.

Designer and builder Peter Brady was on board for the delivery trip as far as Cairns and stated that the vessel's performance was extremely pleasing. The clients wanted the trip to be a genuine full-on test of the boat and to this end, the she was loaded with not only her two 4.7m operating tenders, but a third spare tender, seven crew, full operating equipment, fishing and dive gear, spares and a vast tool kit in case of any emergencies on the way.

Systems were monitored around the clock and every piece of equipment was tested in true operating conditions. The trip was a different experience for Peter, as rather than driving the boat as he often does on the delivery trip for clients, he was able to stand back and observe, then discuss the way the boat operated with the client and skipper first hand.

Peter summed up the trip with these comments. 'It was hard work, but someone had to do it: living in the lap of luxury while effortlessly cruising at 20 knots passing through some of the world's most beautiful scenery. Just as tough were the evenings at anchor with great company, plus the diving and fishing. If Bathurst can give the same pleasure to all her future guests as she did for us, then both the operators and their clients are going to be in for a fabulous experience and the boat is going to be very busy.'

Peter is continuing his work on the new 'trawler style' Pathfinder range and a more minimal entry-level of 'Bathurst'.

For further information contact Peter Brady on 0400557568 or email peter.brady(at)pacificpowercats.com.au