Two weeks ago we made the trip down to Hobart for sea trials onboard the new Hybrid 7.5 power cat ‘Waxed’ and as promised, have posted some photos. The Hybrid really has exceeded all expectations and so far everyone who has been lucky enough to get onboard has been blown away by her performance (including us!).

 

The fun began with a trip through the centre of Hobart, watching the bemused expressions of pedestrians as this large, strange looking boat passes them being towed by such a small car. The boat and trailer come in at under 2 tonnes so can be pulled by small 4WDs and many 2WDs (which is quite a sight). We then hit the water and had a play in the sheltered area around the ramp before heading out to find some rough water around Bruny Island in the gusty conditions of around 30 knots.

 

We found what we wanted and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves! The ride of the Hybrid is spectacularly soft and really has no equal. We tried in vain to find other boats around to annoy but the rough conditions kept everyone at home except a few salmon farmers who certainly took notice as we passed. None the less we had a good time and stopped in at Kettering to see another Chamberlin owner Morris Crawford.

 

You really notice the difference when you can cruise at 25+ knots in such rough water and we had the boat back to Hobart, washed and in the shed in less than 2 hours from leaving Kettering. It is also a great treat when you don’t have to fill the boat up at the end of the day because the efficiency is so good you can get over 300 nautical miles out of the tanks!

 

I’m pleased to say there is already a great deal of interest being generated in the concept, we have started work on a 9.5m version and have also had enquiries about a workboat for which the Hybrid hullform would be a perfect match. All of the specs on the design can be found in the article below, including a brochure and if you would like any further information or a study print please feel free to contact us.