In Part 1 of this series we explored some example crew setups throughout the yacht size range from 58ft to 150+ft…which can be from 1 to 7+ crew total. How many and what type of crew works best for you is largely dependent on the level of service and care you want for both yourself while aboard and your yacht in general. Let’s say that you just bought a new yacht that is going through the final rigging process and will be delivered in 3 months. With an idea of the different crew options and the type of program you would like to run, you set out to find the people that will make your yachting experience truly wonderful. What is the first step? Step 1. Finding the Right Captain. The captain is far more than just a person who drives the boat. He is a manager of your vessel and all … [Read more...]
MAN Common Rail Engine Maintenance Plan
This is a service guideline for Common Rail MAN marine engines. The MAN common rail engine started appearing in marine applications in 2005 and is still widely used today in horsepower applications from 600hp to 1550hp. It was regarded as a huge leap in technology from the old non-common rail MAN engines due to its increases in fuel efficiency and performance and its decreases in vibration, smoke and noise. The MAN common rail engines are known for running strong and having few major issues. The biggest drawback of them however is the service. The intervals required by the MAN maintenance plan are more frequent and comprehensive than other engine manufacturers…meaning they are more expensive to maintain. In addition, you need to be aware of where your nearest MAN … [Read more...]
Catepillar C-32 Marine Engine Maintenance Schedule
This is a general guideline for service intervals on a Caterpillar C-32 Engine for recreational use The Carterpillar C-32 Acert Engine is a V-12, 4 stroke diesel motor with a displacement of 32.1L. It is seen in recreational marine applications with HP ratings varying from 1600hp to 1900hp For further details please contact your local Caterpillar Marine Service Department. Some of these services will coincide with one another to be done at the same time for convenience and to save the number to trips your mechanic will have to make to the boat. These are items needed in addition to your regular inspections of the motors prior to use. *Also be mindful that the transmissions and generator will require regular service, consult with the manufacturers of those systems as well. … [Read more...]
Caterpillar C-18 Marine Engine Maintenance Schedule
This is a general guideline for service intervals on a Caterpillar C-18 Engine for recreational use The Caterpillar C-18 Acert Engine is an inline 6, 4 stroke diesel engine with a displacement of 18.1L. It is seen in recreational marine applications from 1000hp to 1150hp on yachts ranging in size from 45ft to over 70ft. For further details please see the link at the bottom of this article that will allow you to download the actual CAT C-18 maintenance manual. Some of these services will coincide with one another to be done at the same time for convenience and to save the number to trips your mechanic will have to make to the boat. These are items needed in addition to your regular inspections of the motors prior to use. *Also be mindful that the transmissions … [Read more...]
Superior Hatteras Factory Support and Service
The Hatteras factory support and service is second to none in the yachting business Hatteras goes to great lengths to not only deliver a superior quality product, but with the service and care to match as well. Instead of following the old dealer model, where service has to be done only at the dealer you purchased the yacht from, Hatteras will take the steps to get your boat fixed wherever it is. For instance, clients that purchased a new Hatteras from me at Tom George Yacht Group can get their boats repaired under warranty in Panama City, Jacksonville, Kennebunkport, Key West, etc...you name it. Hatteras can either coordinate warranty work through local service people wherever you are (as long as they are reputable, insured) or send their own service techs to make … [Read more...]
Finding the Right Crew for Your Yacht- Part 1
So you have made the decision to get into yachting…great! Yachting is a pastime that can provide you, your friends and family with truly unforgettable life experiences. For the select few that have the financial capability to enjoy yachting it can provide the utmost in quality time, relaxation and adventure. Two of the most often overlooked aspects to yachting is figuring out a plan for how the yacht is going to be cared for and what level of service you would like to have aboard your yacht…both can be solved by finding the right crew to match your expectations. Even the newest and most beautiful yachts can become a total headache if the proper crew is not in place to take care of it and provide desired services to the owner and guests. These are some of the items that will need … [Read more...]
Gyro Stabilizers and Fin Stabilizers, What you Need to Know
Both Gyro and Fin Stabilizers are a great way to reduce the rolling and pitching on a yacht. Having this technology onboard will make cruising and time at anchor more enjoyable, especially for those that are prone to motion sickness. Image of a Seakeeper Gyro Stabilizer What is a Gyro Stabilizer? It is a computer controlled gyroscope, which is comprised of a flywheel that spins at speeds of up to 10,700RPM and is tilted fore and aft in a range of up to 140 degrees to counteract the wave motion imposed on a yacht. Modern Gyros have been in use in recreational yachts since about 2007. This video of a Seakeeper Gyro Explains it perfectly: Benefits of a Gyro Stabilizer: Greatly reduces pitch and roll Applications from 30' to over 100' Works while at anchor, at the dock, … [Read more...]