Two wheels or four, its performance that matters to Cigarette

by Bob Wonders on 7 Apr 2011 Cigarette Racing Team, as I’ve often stated arguably the best-known name in performance boating, made the industry sit up and take notice last year when it introduced the innovative 46’ AMG Rider.

This eye-catching speedster was created with considerable input from the awesome AMG division of Mercedes-Benz, in particular the incredible SLS AMG Gullwing coupe’.

With this amazing boat on display, the fabulous Gullwing coupe’ alongside, Cigarette Racing Team presented a truly memorable display at the 2010 Miami International Boat Show.

So, how does one top that?

Well, Cigarette certainly set out to attempt it with the release this year of the Cigarette 42 ‘Ducati Edition’, in the words of Cigarette CEO Skip Braver producing the ’Ménage of Motorsports’.

He should perhaps have put as ‘the ménage of high-performance motorsports’?

It probably goes without saying that Ducati is one of the most highly-respected and sought after brand names in motorcycling.

Australian fans of the MotoGP racing will well remember local hero Casey Stoner winning the world championship on a Ducati in 2007.

Stoner’s deeds certainly sat well on the Australian market, with Ducati sportbikes among the nation’s best-selling models.

Cigarette marketing of the Ducati Edition is based simply on the dedication to performance and perfection the two marques strive for.

This latest Cigarette creation is customised ‘Ducati style’ in signature white with its bold, red stripe running the full length of the sleek hull.

Three engine options are offered for the stunning boat – all from Mercury Racing – Dual 700hp SCi with NXT drives, 850 SCi with Mercury Racing drives or 1075hp with #6 drives.

As those familiar with Cigarette would attest, the layout and installation of the engines in this magnificent boat is of typical Cigarette standard – in other words, absolutely flawless.

What’s more, Mercury Racing has come to the party offering these superb engines with customised carbon fibre covers offered in 10 colours!

True ‘performance heads’ will no doubt choose the 1075hp engines, and I’d estimate they would deliver in excess of 100mph (160km/hr) to the Cigarette Ducati Edition.

The beautifully designed and finished, 557 cubic inch V8 cylinder block delivers its full load in the 5600-6000rpm range.

Furthermore, it’s an ideal and proven match with Mercury Racing’s renowned #6 drive units.

Skip Braver delights in pointing out that Mercury Racing is a true supporter of the manufacturer.

'Mercury Racing knows that Cigarette Racing will put time, effort and expertise behind every engine we install,' he says.

Internally, Cigarette has again ‘lit the fuse’ of perfection, it choice of colours and
high-grade upholstery really adds the icing to the cake.

Additionally, this original boat sported a sound system from a local company. JL Audio that I have to rate as the best I’ve ever heard.

I’ve been fortunate enough to see and board plenty of Cigarette boats, dating back to 1989; I have never failed to be impressed with the standard of design, fit out and finish.

Put simply, if it’s a performance boat you’re after and you only want the best, head for the Cigarette breed.

For further information contact CRS Yachts, Sydney, telephone (02) 9719-8188 or visit the website, www.cigaretteracing.com