Tenders & Toys 2024

SHOCK TACTICS
Mike Wills takes a look at the importance of shock mitigation
and the necessary safety protocols needed in today’s tenders
and powerboats for the comfort of crew and guests
In the recreational market, creature comfort has become important.
In the past decade, outboard engine technology has advanced
inexorably and so have hull designs. Boats are faster, consume less
fuel and are more sea worthy than ever before. They are more safer
and more versatile which has lead to the next generation of mid range,
fast planing craft penetrating not only the traditional owner skipper
market but now engaging with the charter, tender and adventure based
tourist market in a way that was never self evident before. Despite the
euphoria that has made the mid markets (20 -50’) herald some of the
fastest growing brands in the world, there are many enemies to an
exciting and pleasant experience on the water.
Motion sickness is an issue on boats where roll, and the five other
equally disagreeable motions, including heave, surge, sway, yaw and
pitch, are likely contributors to why not more people enjoy boating. A
simple gyro easily installed, can now stabilise a craft at anchor. This
sort of technology has fully embraced the mid ranges including RIBS
and open weekenders which subsequently have benefited the most.
28 | TENDERS & TOYS | ONBOARD