8:56 PM Wed 4 Nov 2009 GMT
I've been involved with the boating industry for.well, let's say a long, long time, pushing 30-years in fact (and I'm still only a youngster!).
Consequently, not a lot comes my way that I haven't seen before, not until I caught up with an old mate, Tony Poole, of Sydney-based Blue Water Power Yachts.
Tony's brokerage is the authorised dealership for the respected US marque Luhrs Sportfish, together with another well-known breed, Mainship.
Now here's the story - Blue Water Power Yachts has been asked to sell a selection of Luhrs sportfishing boats on behalf of some United States dealers.
I have never before heard of that happening and neither has Tony Poole.
Having had a look at what is available through this rather unique situation, I am terribly envious of those who cashed up enough to take advantage of it.
There are six models available, everyone capable of fulfilling the dreams of dedicated blue water anglers.
There are three 41-footers (12.49-metres), two convertibles, one with dual Yanmar diesels, the other with Cummins engines, and a very classy open tower model that really should be ranging far and wide off Cairns, on the fabled North Queensland black marlin grounds.
It is powered by a pair of 610hp Cummins diesels; there are also two smaller open tower versions, one 36' (10.97-metres) with a pair of 500hp Cummins diesels and a 32' (9.75-metres) sporting dual 370hp Cummins.
The final offering is a 31' (9.44-metre) Open Hardtop with 325hp Yanmar engines.
So how did this come about?
Obviously we've all heard how the US boating industry took a major hit from the global financial crisis and that led to some American dealers simply carrying too much stock.
'The banks and other financial bodies have been working with the manufacturer and dealers to get through this,' Tony explained.
'I've certainly never heard of anything like this happening before, and really it's all new to us, but, and this is not sales talk, we have some unbelievable bargains, thanks largely in part to the strong Australian dollar when compared to the US greenback.
'There are several points to get across to prospective Australian buyers; each of these vessels if sold locally will be ready to go, with 240Volt conversions carried out by Luhrs, and fully fitted out.
'Some of them are fitted with air conditioning, towers, game poles and extensive electronics packages.
'I kid you not, the prices we've been asked to obtain are incredible.
'Every price includes the electrical conversions, packing, cradles, loading, shipping insurance and shipping to Sydney, Brisbane or Perth.
'Commissioning is included along with unloading charges, quarantine, customs clearance and GST,' he added.
The only additional costs facing a buyer are comprehensive insurance and anti-fouling.
'Naturally, all new boat and engine warranties will apply as per normal new vessel terms and conditions,' Tony added.
For those fortunate enough to be reaching for a cheque book and ownership of one of these beauties, the prices range from a top of $609, 042 (for the Yanmar-powered 41') to $280,423 (for the 31' Open Hardtop.
Those experienced with boats will recognise a 'snip' when they see one, but for the less experienced, well, go and compare these price tickets with some similar boats on the market and you'll see why I said I'm envious of the cashed up.
For further information contact Blue Water Power Yachts, telephone (02) 9029-6554 or e-mail
tony@bpy.com.au
by Bob Wonders
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Hogan Island, VIC
