5:52 AM Mon 26 Jan 2009 GMT
 | | 'One glance at the Maritimo A60 running shows the sea trials for the vessel were certainly successful. - Maritimo A versus C'
Mark Burgin
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Following successful sea trials last week of Maritimo's latest, the Aegean 60, the company's sensational Cabriolet 60 (C60) now has some serious competition.
For those not familiar with the Gold Coast yard's building program, the MaritimoA60 Aegean Flybridge is essentially the C60 Sports Cabriolet with a beautifully-styled, low profile flying bridge incorporated into the design.
Who will be the likely winner on the sales graph?
Three members of the Maritimo 'brains trust', CEO Bill Barry-Cotter, marketing director Luke Durman and national sales manager Peter Jenkins share slightly differing views.
Initially, Barry-Cotter felt the C60 would emerge as the favourite, but on further reflection has tipped it would be more like '50-50'.
Durman also predicted a 50-50- outcome, while Jenkins felt the C60 would outsell the A60 60-40.
Perhaps this is reflected in the markets they serve, with Jenkins overseeing the Australian segment and Durman handling the global export market.
"We have already had plenty of interest from Europe and Asia for the Aegean Flybridge concept and we look forward to the further development of the range with the Maritimo A55 and A50," Durman said.
"For international dealers, the A55 is already proving to be a success before it has even been launched - expectations are high and having seen the boat almost complete I'm sure it will hit the mark," he added.
All three agreed on one important point; the market will dictate which design proves the more popular.
Standard power for the A60 is a pair of C-12 Caterpillar diesels each generating 715 horsepower; options offered include C-18 Caterpillar (1000hp) and Volvo Penta 775hp.
In its standard form, the A60 is competitively priced at $1.765 million, a price capable of causing sleepless nights for importers of similar vessels.
Barry-Cotter also has on the drawing board an A70 and C70, but we may not seem them until 2010.
The A55 will be officially launched next weekend (January 31/February 1) at the Maritimo Spit Boat Show, located at the company's new Sydney offices in Mosman, on the eastern side of the Spit Bridge.
It will also be displayed at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (May 21-24).
 | The Aegean 60 shows its class as it moves easily to the plane during sea trials off Surfers Paradise. - At Maritimo A versus C - Mark Burgin Click Here to view large photo |
The A50 will be unveiled at this year's Sydney International Boat Show (July 30-August 4) where Maritimo will go in with all guns blazing introducing up to seven brand new models.
Prices for the smaller 'A' models have already been set.
The A50, with 575hp C-9 Caterpillar diesels will retail at $1.053 million.
Optional engines available will include Cummins and Volvo Penta diesels.
The A55, scheduled for a Sydney release, will sport the C-12 715hp Caterpillar diesels with options from Cummins (QSM 11 at 670hp) and Volvo Penta (775hp).
It will be priced at $1.562 million.
The A60 certainly seems destined for success; the first example was sold (to a New Zealand buyer) prior to the vessel being completed.
Although optional engines are available, Barry-Cotter feels the standard C-12 Caterpillar diesels represent the ideal selection.
"Naturally, with a pair of 1000hp C-18 Cats the A60 would be a quicker boat, but I'm quietly confident that A609 buyers would be more than happy with the 30 knot (wide open throttle) capability delivered by the smaller C-12 engines," he explained.
Internally, the 'A' and 'C' designs are remarkably similar.
Primary difference, of course, is the flying bridge, accessed from within the saloon on the A60 via staircase on the starboard side just inside the cockpit.
The saloon is delightful and retains a bright and airy feel despite not having the electrically-operated glass sunroof of the 'C' designs.
D?cor, upholstery and joinery would are all a credit to the Maritimo crafts men and women responsible.
All who have seen the two designs have been impressed with the mid-ships master stateroom; it could only be termed sensational.
All together, there are four cabins, the master, a VIP guest forward and smaller cabins port and starboard with either single or upper and lower berths.
The lower helm offers excellent all-round vision and easily accommodates the Raymarine G120 screens.
An owner can opt for the lower helm to be deleted and drive the boat solely from the 'bridge.
 | Helm seat on the flying bridge of the Aegean 60 is set deliberately low, in a true sports car style manner. Comfortable lounges, sink and ’fridge make this a to spot for enjoying the surroundings. - Maritimo A versus C - Mark Burgin Click Here to view large photo |
The design of the flying bridge interior is totally different from that encountered, say, with Maritimo's big flybridge cruisers.
It features the helm seat on the centreline, set low behind a low-profile windscreen with port side lounge, starboard side sink, wet bar and 'fridge.
Aft, the A60 has the same garage able to accommodate a 3.5-metre tender.
The A60's engine room, as is the case aboard the C60, is a surprise; one needs to go below to appreciate the engine room's sheer size, with ample space, including full headroom, to carry out routine maintenance procedures.
I was very, very impressed when I first boarded the C60; I have been equally impressed with the A60.
 | Clever design has resulted in a built-in barbecue with its own separate stowage above the electrically operated garage hatch. - Maritimo A versus C - Mark Burgin Click Here to view large photo |
Which one would I buy if I had a spare $1.7 million (as unlikely a situation as Barack Obama standing aside for George W)?
Frankly, I don't know; that's a decision that would only be arrived at after some very serious thinking.
 | Helm seat on the flying bridge of the Aegean 60 is set deliberately low, in a true sports car style manner. Comfortable lounges, sink and ’fridge make this a to spot for enjoying the surroundings. - Maritimo A versus C - Mark Burgin Click Here to view large photo |
 | Light and airy saloon aboard the A60, looking aft towards the starboard side staircase to the flying bridge - At Maritimo A versus C - Mark Burgin Click Here to view large photo |
For further information contact Maritimo, telephone (07) 5588-6000 or visit the website www.maritimo.com.au
by Robert Maxwell
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Safety Bay, WA
