Maritimo's 'monster' leaves its lair

5:37 PM Sun 18 Jan 2009 GMT

'How she will look after launching - this computer image of the massive ’flagship’ gives some idea of the sheer size of the Maritimo 73 Sky Lounge. - Maritimo’s ’monster’ leaves its lair.' Maritimo Click Here to view large photo

The always-busy Research and Development facility at Maritimo's Coomera yard was a hive of activity on all fronts last week when the massive plug for the hull of the giant Maritimo 73 Sky Lounge was turned in preparation for the mould.

A huge prime mover was brought in to tow the massive structure out of its lair and was required earlier to haul out the deck mould for its release.

Maritimo staff carefully supervise the release of the Maritimo 73 Sky Lounge deck from its mould. - Peter Jenkins

Largest vessel ever constructed by industry legend Bill Barry-Cotter, the Maritimo 73 Sky Lounge is scheduled for release at the Sydney International Boat Show (July 30-August 4).

It will join with five other new models being released at the show, as Barry-Cotter and the company stands ready to reap the benefits of a $10 million investment into an all-new product range.

Huge plug is turned ready for moulding the massive hull that will become the Maritimo 73 Sky Lounge. - Peter Jenkins

The 73 Sky Lounge is a giant on all fronts; its dual Muir windlasses, anchors and chain tip the scales at one tonne, while the vessel itself will weigh in at more than 50 tonne.

Despite its bulk, the 73 Sky Lounge with its standard engines, dual Caterpillar C32 diesels each delivering 1550 horsepower, will boast an incredible top speed in the region of 36 knots (41mph)! Even with the smaller engine option offered, 1000hp C18 Caterpillar diesels, this 'powerhouse' will still charge across the water at 28 knots-plus (32mph).

Features of this stunning vessel include a meticulously-planned engine room, spacious (and luxurious!) accommodations, including a master suite with his and hers en-suites, a galley any five-star chef would be proud of and a cockpit able to host a party.

Maritimo lists the boat (ship is a more accurate word) as being 22.25-metres (73') in length, but if bowsprit and aft platform are included she stretches the tape out to 24.38-metres (80'). Her spacious interior benefits from the 6.6-metre (21'6') beam.

One area where Barry-Cotter and his team have concentrated is producing a vessel that boasts amazing strength and build integrity, while maintaining relatively light weight. Consequently, the Maritimo 73 Sky Lounge draws only 1.55-metres (5') of water. She carries 10,900-litres of fuel and 1720-litres of fresh water.

The Maritimo 73 Sky Lounge in full computerised profile indicates the stylish lines of the awesome vessel. - Maritimo_. Click Here to view large photo

No one was more excited at seeing the vessel's progress than Maritimo sales and marketing manager Peter Jenkins.

'This fabulous creation, together with the other new models scheduled for release, will set the industry ablaze,' he declared. I just can't wait for Sydney. It's hardly necessary to state the boat building talent of Bill Barry-Cotter.

'I work with the man on a daily basis and at I still find him an amazing man. He's rightly described as the 'main man' of the Australian boat manufacturing industry,' Jenkins added.

For further information contact Maritimo, telephone (07) 5588-6000 or visit the website, www.maritimo.com.au

by Bob Wonders

Click on thumbnails to enlarge and find more photos: