Another successful Dealer training session at the top of the South Island at Seafarer Marine engineerings new premises in Beach Road Waikawa. Sam and the team were great hosts and have a number of Yanmar Engines in the showroom we utilized for training. Overall a great event networking and learning from our Yanmar Guru Jim! Following on from the South Island Dealer training in Picton, Jim migrated north to PE HQ to carry out the North Island training. Once again, another great few days to refresh our skills, networking, and sharing experiences and stories.
Thanks to all involved and we look forward to continuing to up the level and do it all again next year!
– Dave Low, NZ Branch Manager
John Deere: The Power Behind Outward Bound Adventures
Since 1962, Outward Bound New Zealand has been transforming lives from its base in Anakiwa, tucked away in the picturesque Marlborough Sounds. Over 70,000 participants have experienced these life-changing programmes, with the region’s mountains, bush, and waterways providing the perfect backdrop for self-reflection and personal growth.
At the heart of Outward Bound’s experience is a strong nautical tradition, with on-board boating experiences (and general transportation) playing an important role. To make sure things run smoothly, Outward Bound maintains a fleet of four vessels, all serviced by the Seafarer Marine Engineering Team in nearby Picton.
Seafarer Marine’s most recent project involved the re-powering of Outward Bound’s vessel, the Kurt Hahn. Sam Neal, Seafarer Marine Systems Engineer, shared insights about the work involved and why John Deere was Outward Bound’s engine of choice.
“Outward Bound vessels have relied on John Deere marine engines for many years. When it came time to replace the Kurt Hahn’s engine, choosing another John Deere powerplant was an easy decision,” said Sam.
The choice to continue with John Deere was based on a number of key factors that fitted with Outward Bound’s unique marine requirements.
Outward Bound’s vessels don’t need to travel at high speeds. Instead, they cruise the protected waters of the Sounds at a more leisurely pace, making John Deere’s high capacity, low horsepower output ideal for this type of operation. Safety and dependability are also crucial for Outward Bound, and John Deere’s proven track record of reliability was another big tick in the box.
Unlike some commercial-grade engines that can be harsh and noisy, John Deere powerplants also offer a smoother, quieter experience – which is important when you’re operating in such pristine surroundings.
“John Deere also has a unique engineering philosophy,” Sam added.
“They significantly de-tune their engines. This means an engine capable of 300 horsepower, will run at roughly half that power level. This extends engine life but also improves fuel efficiency, which is just what commercial operators like Outward Bound are after.”
Outward Bound’s rich history stretches back over six decades, and as it sails into the future, John Deere engines will no doubt continue to play a quiet but key role in powering new adventures.
Yanmar Power Fuels Kokuru's Incredible Comeback Story
Nobody said owning a boat is plain sailing. As has been the case with the Kokuru – a classic 12-metre launch that calls Pine Harbour home. Under its previous owners, Koruru underwent a complete top-to-bottom restoration. The result: an immaculately presented launch brimming with character.
Unfortunately, this return to glory was fleeting. Only a month after this labour of love was completed, disaster struck when a neighbouring boat in Pine Harbour Marina caught fire, before drifting into the path of the Koruru, setting it alight.
Allister Spick at Marine Diesel Solutions recalled the heartbreaking incident:
“After putting so much time and effort into this project, the fire was devastating. We salvaged what we could, which wasn’t a lot. Kokuru sat there for over a year before a new Masterton-based owner decided to take on the challenge of restoring the boat a second time around.”
“Although the project is still a few months from completion, major decisions like choosing the engine type were made some time ago.”
“Kokuru Mark I ran twin 75HP Yanmar engines. Although they didn’t see much action, all the performance tests and sea trials produced excellent results. The previous Yanmars were efficient, quiet and reliable, and while the owner looked at other options – sticking with proven Yanmar power won the day.”
Kokuru Mark II will be fitted with twin common-rail 80HP Yanmar powerplants. The extra bit of power is ideal for the in-coastal cruising the new owner is planning.
“Getting the powerplant right is crucial with any vessel. Although the choice of Yanmar seemed fairly straightforward – Power Equipment worked closely with the owner and myself to make sure we had the documentation and technical details nailed down. Plus, Power Equipment made sure the engines were delivered on time – meeting project deadlines.”
Kokuru is currently being worked on at the Orakei Marina Boatyard, and we look forward to showing you the finished version in all its glory. Stay tuned!
