Barbary in Boating NZ July 2012 - Lake Taupo

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0712212 subscribe online at www.mags4gifts.co.nz/boating-nz 23
“There is a sacred atmosphere on Lake Taupo, with a pristine mountain back-drop. We wanted to make sure that our engine would not be intrusive or foul the air in any way. “We decided to go for an all-electric system, starting with the Elco ep4000 electric propulsion unit. The motor is built with components widely used in fork-lifts, and the fact of easily obtainable replacement parts was paramount for us. “It involved a complete rewiring and recabling of the boat’s systems, lighting, radios – everything. We have an inverter running the 240-volt systems, including the big screen for the movie cruises.” Jamie says topping up the batteries is never a concern as Barbary is tied up and connected to shore power every night. However he has made the galley removable so that he can access the bank of 60 two-volt cell batteries if necessary. Barbary’s impressive battery bank is contained in an airtight box. Air is forced through it to prevent the build-up of fumes and then vents to the outside, and an automatic float system supplies distilled water to the batteries and can top them up in five minutes at the turn of a tap. The battery charger is also automatic, and the charging programme can be changed using a laptop computer. “This engine is as eco-friendly as possible, with no noise, no smells, no vibrations and definitely no regrets on our part,” Jamie says. “Under power, Barbary has a maximum cruise speed of 6.8 knots. She can travel at 5.0 knots for up to 12 hours on her battery bank.” Sarah and Jamie admit they have taken a huge gamble with Barbary. “The refit wasn’t cheap, but the result is something we can be really proud of,” says Jamie. “We’ve done our homework and along the way we have discovered some amazing, problem-solving, innovative suppliers in the New Zealand marine industry. “It’s early days yet, but we like to think that we and a lot of our suppliers are leading the way to really conscientious, clean, green business for New Zealand and we’re enhancing the romance and the magic of our pristine environment.” Manufacturer of Southern Boats and Lazercraft Boats & also Specialising in Custom Builds over 8m 0712207 24 Boating New Zealand July 2012
Page 1 and 2: Feature Jumbo Barbary White restora
Page 3: Sarah and Jamie Looner with their s

Barbary in Boating NZ July 2012 - Lake Taupo

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