Set sail for National Boat Show 2005

Local company, Sea-Tribe Yacht Manufacturers, is launching its newest model – a catamaran in a container – at the National Boat Show 2005, running from 26-28 August at the Coca-Cola Dome, Randburg.

Designed by Cape Town naval architect Anton du Toit, the Sea-Tribe 870 – an 8,7-metre transportable catamaran, and the only South African-built yacht of its kind – has been developed by Durban father and son team, Patrick and Chris Lloyd-Warren.

It’s only one of a huge variety of yachts, luxury speed- and ski-boats and outdoor gear waiting for you at the National Boat Show. With zones covering boating, caravans and outdoors, fishing and diving, the show will display the latest offerings for watersport, adventure and outdoor enthusiasts.

According to Patrick Lloyd-Warren, the sandwich/cored construction, epoxy resin-infused Sea-Tribe 870 was built to withstand harsh African coastal conditions. The catamaran comes in two models. The bridge deck can be enclosed and configured as a Cruising Version for the family, while the bridge deck is more open and lightweight in the Racing Version.

A unique trailer system makes it possible to assemble or disassemble the yacht on the trailer itself, and the yacht fits in a standard shipping container. “This,” says Lloyd-Warren, “makes it possible for the owners to drive the yacht to a holiday destination of their choice and launch it from virtually anywhere, including beaches and uneven terrain, something that is impossible to do with imported yacht/trailers.”

Top brand Hobie Cat will be out in force at the show, displaying its extensive catamaran range, including the new Hobie Teddy and Hobie Catsy and, in conjunction with the Saturday Star, will be giving away a Hobie Catsy valued at R28 000.

New Generation Yachting will be showing off a collection of entry-level boats, dinghies, catamarans and small yachts, pre-owned, and priced at an affordable R5 000-R25 000. They’ll also have on display cables, harnesses, trampolines, sailing shorts and boat covers for sharpening up the finish of your yacht.

For those keen to sharpen their sailing skills, Sunsail South Africa and the Ocean Sailing Academy will offer career and leisure sail training.

Sunsail SA is part of the world’s largest yacht charter company, with more than 1 350 yachts operating from 20 countries. Sunsail's philosophy is to make sailing rewarding, accessible, and fun. With over 25 years’ experience they promise modern, fully equipped and well-maintained yachts ideal for learning to sail or improving skills. Their Royal Yachting Association and SA Sailing qualified instructors employ the latest teaching techniques to build confidence on the water.

Established in 1979, the Ocean Sailing Academy pioneered the international training standards of the Royal Yachting Association and the American Sailing Association for career and leisure sailing. It provides accredited training and certification for employment in the international charter industry and offers the full range of SA Sailing courses.

Whether you’re in the market for a new boat, looking to purchase new fishing gear or a high-tech navigation system, getting ready for your next outdoor adventure or planning your year-end holiday, you’ll find it all at the National Boat Show.

National Boat Show 2005 supports the National Sea Rescue Institute’s (NSRI) efforts in raising public awareness around water safety, and the NSRI will be present to offer expert tips and advice on how to ensure safety at sea and on inland waters.

Competition opportunities are legion with the organisers giving away R350 000 in prizes, including a Viking Velocity speedboat powered by a Mariner motor, complete with trailer and accessories, sponsored by Waterworld, in conjunction with SABC 3 Car Torque and Car Magazine.

Heidi Warricker, MD of event organiser, Biz Events, says that nowhere else will visitors find such a comprehensive display of boating and watersports products. “With more than 150 exhibitors, visitors to the 2005 National Boat Show will be exposed not only to the newest boats and equipment available on the continent, but will also have opportunity of comparing different products, and selecting those most suited to their lifestyle and budget.”

FACT FILE: NATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2005

The third National Boat Show, Africa’s biggest boat show and the premier boating event on the continent, is being held from 26-28 August at the Coca-Cola Dome, Northriding, Randburg.

Watersport, adventure and outdoor enthusiasts will find the latest in sailing and power boats, water sports and other equipment displayed under one roof in this huge virtual shopping mall.

Times and dates:
11:00-20:00 Friday 26 August 2005 (trade and consumer)
09:00-18:00 Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 August 2005 (consumer)

Venue:
Coca-Cola Dome
Corner Olievenhout and Northumberland Roads
Northgate, Randburg

Key exhibits:
Speed, racing and ski boats
Cruisers, fishing boats, deck boats
Yachts
Jet skis, inflatables
Canoes and kayaks
Ski and wakeboard equipment
Kitesurfers, windsurfers
Water toys, paddle boats
Fishing equipment and tackle
Scuba diving gear and training schools
4x4 and outdoor accessories and equipment
Clubs and conservation centres
Outdoor travel destinations

Entrance fee:
Adults - R50 per person
Children under 12 and pensioners - R20.00 per person

Website:
www.nationalboatshow.co.za

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