VOLU

ME 52 - 2014

Fax: (772) 288-4993 • Website: www.americancustomyachts.com • E-mail: info@acyinc.comAMERICAN CUSTOM YACHTS, INC. • 6800 S.W. JACK JAMES DRIVE • STUART, FL 34997 • (772) 221-9100

Patriot PressNE WS AND INFORMATION FROM AMERICAN CUSTOM YACHTS

Two New Hulls Taking Shape at ACY

Two new ACY custom sportfishermen sit side by side as construction continues and their finished shapes are revealed. The hull of the new ACY68 (on left) was recently flipped and now sits level in its cradle as interior work commences. The tower has been fitted on the new ACY67 (on right), and the hull and deckhouse are prepped for paint as interior construction and finishing continues. The ACY67’s sleek new look is now visible, showing the soft, curved lines of the deckhouse and bridge, unlike any other American on the water.

Tuna tubes are in place on the ACY67, and the cockpit is prepped for sub decking as the mezzanine is fabricated on the shop floor and interior construction continues. In the salon, framing for overhead light boxes and speakers is complete, and the overhead electrical and A/V wiring is underway while salon cabinetry is fabricated. Interior walls are prepped for veneer.

The hull interior of the new ACY68 is fully prepped and ready for Kevlar and fiberglass application.

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Under the leadership of American Custom Yachts, the acclaimed Venture brand has re-emerged as a proven and highly sought after fishing machine for the discriminating bluewater enthusiast. Since taking over production in 2012, ACY has modernized the Venture line, introducing a number of innovative improvements and exciting customization options that allow owners to create the perfect boat to meet their needs. In 2014, ACY acquired the Venture name and company assets, bringing the entire operation into the American Family of Companies.

Today’s Venture has been thoughtfully redesigned for comfort, convenience and improved fishability. The new Venture console features a larger screen display area, optional built-in rod storage and a fully sealed dry door. Forward seating has been ergonomically redesigned

for added comfort. Topping off the Venture line are new tower options by Bausch-American Towers with a choice of three different hard tops. Additional options include a single-level deck, extra fuel capacity, several live well configurations and a side door with a pocket fold-out ladder.

Every Venture by American receives the same unmatched craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into ACY’s world-famous custom yachts. And when it comes to service, ACY offers Venture customers a complete range of expert marine services all under one roof. For more information, go to www.venturebyamerican.com or call Venture by American at 772-221-9100.

American Custom Yachts is proud to welcome luxury yacht builder Westport as a new affiliate and fellow member of the Edison Chouest Offshore family of companies.

Celebrating its 50th year on the water, Westport is North America’s largest luxury yacht builder, maintaining three shipyards in Washington State, as well as a marina and sales office in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Employing over 400 skilled employees, Westport has completed more than 120 yachts since 2000. Known worldwide for excellence in design, quality craftsmanship and uncompromising attention to detail, Westport yachts range from 85 to 164 feet in length, incorporating advanced composite construction and state-of-the-art technology with a focus on performance and comfort.

“We are very excited about the possibilities this new relationship brings to the table,” said ACY president Dominick LaCombe. “Westport is a dynamic operation that produces beautiful yachts. We’re looking forward to teaming up to discuss common goals.”

For more information, go to www.westportyachts.com.

New Venture a Success

ACY Welcomes Westport as New Affiliate

Welcome to the Family

Venture 39

Venture 34

IMS American was recently selected to provide the electronics for Grady White’s new Freedom 307 dual-console model featured in the latest marketing campaign for this renowned North Carolina boat builder. The installation was the result of a team effort between Radio Island Marina of Beaufort, North Carolina, and IMS American. The electronics were installed at the Grady White factory in Greenville, and sea trials were conducted out of the Beaufort Inlet.

IMS was asked to install a highly functional, yet compact, electronics package to complement the vessel’s ergonomic dual-console design. A Garmin package was selected, including a GPSMAP 1040xs 10" keyed chartplotter/sonar combo, a GHP 10 marine autopilot system, a GMR 18 HD 18", 4-kW radome and a Garmin VHF 100 marine radio.

“We are honored to have been chosen by Grady White to perform the electronics installation on the new Freedom 307,” said Nils Nelson, director of sales for the IMS marine division. “Grady White is a company steeped in tradition and a legend in the industry. We’re also very excited to have been selected as the electronics company of choice for Radio Island Marina, a highly respected North Carolina marine business.”

IMS Selected to Outfit New Factory Grady White

(800) 960-8476 · Florida: (772) 219-4460 · North Carolina: (252) 728-7720 · www.imsamerican.com

IMS NEWSResidential · Commercial · Marine

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IMS American installed a winning electronics package on the 82’ Viking enclosed bridge sportfish ACE OF DIAMONDS in preparation for its annual voyage to Montauk, New York. Navigation components include the addition of a Garmin GPSMAP 8215 MFD multi-touch 15” glass bridge chartplotter in the wheel house, along with a Furuno NavNet 3D 12” MFD/chartplotter and a Simrad AP28 autopilot in the tower box. Communication components include an Icom IC-M504A VHF radio/hailer/foghorn installed in the tower box, accompanied by a pair of Icom hand-held COMMANDMIC II units (linked to the Icom radio on the bridge), and a pair of Comrod AV51 4’ VHF antennas installed on the tower platform. For extra safety, a Furuno FA50 class B AIS transponder was installed with AIS targets displaying on all Furuno NavNet 3D screens. Completing the package was the installation of bridge Wi-Fi system including a Wave WiFi Rogue Wave Ethernet converter and an Apple AirPort Extreme wireless base station. The installation included the relocation of the existing radar and antennas from the house to the buggy top and the fabrication of a custom radar pod by Bausch-American Towers coinciding with the new tower and hard top installation. Safe travels to Captain Roger and the ACE OF DIAMONDS team. May good luck always be at your side.

IMS Deals ACE OF DIAMONDS a Winning Hand

IMS Announces New Sales TeamIMS American is pleased to welcome two new members to its marine division sales team. Appointed director of sales, Nils Nelson brings over 25 years of domestic and international marine experience, including marine electronics sales and distribution, wholesale and retail marine product development, application engineering and project management. A third-generation maritime professional and licensed captain, Nils has extensive knowledge of marine systems for a wide range of vessels from sportfishermen to megayachts and commercial vessels. As director of

sales, Nils will oversee all US and overseas sales and customer relations. Contact Nils at nils.nelson@imsamerican.com.

Joining IMS as a sales associate, Alan Ferland brings a keen knowledge of the smaller boat market. Alan’s career in the marine industry began right out of high school when he took a position as an electronics installer. He went on to open a mobile marine service, repair and electronics installation business with an affiliated retail marine supply store. Alan then accepted a job with a yacht management company overseeing high-end electronics installations. In his new role with IMS, Alan will work closely with owners of center consoles, walkarounds and express boats to determine their precise needs and outfit their vessels with the perfect electronics package. Contact Alan at alan.ferland@imsamerican.com.

Nils Nelson Alan Ferland

ACY and affiliates BAT, IMS and ACI teamed up to give the 37’ Gamefisherman express TINA an eye-catching makeover at the discretion of its Singer Island, Florida, owner seeking the perfect vessel for strategic strikes out of Lake Worth Inlet when the sails are biting. Work included a complete hull strip

by Eco Strip, a full bottom job and a hull repaint with Awlcraft 2000 custom blue. Teak decks were sanded and brightwork was stripped to the bare wood, restained and built back up with Awlspar, followed by Awlbright Clear. ACY installed new foredeck hatches and fabricated custom Plano tackle lockers utilizing the space previously occupied by a TV. The helm was also modified to increase the viewing angle of new electronics provided by IMS American. The electronics installation included 14.1" and 9" NavNet TZtouch multi-function displays accommodating the helm and tower box, a Furuno GP330B GPS/WAAS NMEA2000 receiver, a Furuno DFF1 600-W/1-kW sounder, a Furuno DRS6A UHD digital 6-kW radar with 4' open array antenna, and a Furuno BBWX2 Sirius Satellite Weather receiver. Additional Furuno components include a 4.3" RD33 remote digital display and a Furuno black box Class B AIS transponder. Displays and components are connected through a NavNet 3D HUB101 8-port Ethernet hub allowing for networking of information. TINA was refitted with a custom Bausch-American full tower and hard top package with a molded radar pod and tower box. Finishing touches were provided by the American Canvas and Interiors team who installed a new salon headliner, recovered the helm chair and crafted a custom sun shade and console cover. The result is a magnificently functional vessel that looks as beautiful as it performs.

Vessel SpotlightTINA Receives Makeover from ACY and Friends

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Over the past several years, Furuno's NavPilot 700 series has built a strong following and an excellent reputation among boaters due to its rock-solid performance and steady steering capability. Responding to customer demand for a functional color display in its popular NavPilot Control Unit, Furuno has answered the call with the introduction of the new NavPilot 711C autopilot system.

The NavPilot 711C provides an all-new vivid color LCD display integrated within a compact, single-DIN Control Unit. The cosmetics of the NavPilot 711C have also been redesigned in keeping with Furuno's

NavNet TZtouch MFDs. For those captains seeking visual and functional compatibility, adding a NavPilot 711C to the NavNet TZtouch helm display ensures a perfect match. As an added bonus, all TZtouch systems (with v3.01 or higher software) also have the ability to control any interfaced NavPilot 700 series autopilot, including the new NavPilot 711C.

While the control head of the NavPilot 711C is completely new, Furuno wisely matched it with the field-proven NavPilot Processor Unit, allowing the NavPilot 711C to deliver Furuno’s unique autopilot features, including "Fantum Feedback," "SafeHelm," and "FPS" (Furuno Power-assist Steering). This pairing provides boaters with a NMEA2000-certified autopilot they can trust. The NavPilot 711C works with a wide variety of boats with inboard or outboard engines, including sailboats. It is even compatible with Volvo Penta IPS and Yamaha Helm Master systems.

While the NavPilot 711C replaces the NavPilot 711 monochrome models with a beautiful new color display, an upgraded operating system and a freshly designed control unit, they’ve kept

the price the same as the outgoing monochrome units. It's also important to note that the Furuno NavPilot 700 model with larger-size display remains current and is still available for purchase. For more information, visit www.furuno.com or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

The NavPilot 711C autopilot offers a vivid color LCD display integrated within a compact, single-DIN Control Unit.

Stay on Course with Furuno’s New NavPilot 711C

Product Profile

NavPilot 711C

The power to tame the sea – this was Seakeeper's original mission when founded in 2003. Their mission was to create gyro stabilization technology so effective that it would transform boating forever. By reducing boat roll, Seakeeper believed time spent on the water could be safer and vastly more enjoyable.

Since the introduction of the first Seakeeper zero-speed gyroscopic stabilizer, lives of thousands of boaters have been changed. When the gyro turns on, the boat settles as if by magic, much to the astonishment and delight of its passengers. The opportunity to change a fundamental human experience does not come along every day.

With thousands of gyros delivered and installations completed on many of the world’s finest vessels, Seakeeper’s products have continued to evolve. After successfully positioning itself as a global leader in active gyroscopic anti-roll stabilization technology, Seakeeper now introduces five exciting new models: the Seakeeper 5, 9, 16, 26 and 35. These new Seakeeper gyros offer greater sophistication, power and flexibility. Designed to address both recreational and commercial applications, vessels as small as 30' and as large as 215' can now take advantage of Seakeeper's sophisticated software and robust new hardware designed to increase equipment effectiveness while protecting critical components.

Welcome to a Whole New World of StabilitySeakeeper Introduces Five New Gyros to Fit Any Vessel

Product Profile

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Seakeeper 5 is designed for boats up to 20 tons (30-50'). Seakeeper 9 stabilizes boats up to 35 tons (50-65'). Seakeeper 16 is designed for boats up to 70 tons (65-80'). Seakeeper 26 stabilizes boats up to 100 tons (80-100'). And Seakeeper 35 is intended for boats up to 140 tons (100' and greater). Multiple units can be fitted for the largest vessels.

All models are designed to achieve a 70 to 90 percent reduction in roll, while requiring only modest electrical power. These versatile gyros have no outside appendages and can be installed off centerline if needed. Computerized control and vacuum technology make Seakeeper the first truly practical stabilizer systems for the leisure yacht and commercial marine markets. And the new Seakeeper units are not only more compact and technologically advanced than their predecessors, they're also less expensive. Thanks to an investment in

manufacturing efficiency, Seakeeper’s new product line is available at prices averaging 25 percent less than its previous products.

Seakeeper is committed to delivering superior products and unparalleled customer service worldwide, while utilizing innovative engineering and technology to deliver a safe, comfortable and enjoyable boating experience to boaters everywhere. For additional information, visit www.seakeeper.com or call ACY at 772-221-9100.

A Seakeeper gyro stabilizer has been fitted neatly below the cockpit of the new ACY67.

(877) 591-9611 · Florida: (772) 283-2771 · North Carolina: (252) 728-7332 · www.bauschamericantowers.com

BAT NEWSCustom Towers, Hard Tops and Accessories

Florida Highlights

BAT outfitted the 82’ Viking ACE OF DIAMONDS with a cutting-edge custom tower package including a custom radar pod molded to the enclosed bridge, full LED dome and spreader lights, a custom control box and a blacked-out buggy top with a top ring seat. BAT also fabricated a new bridge rail with rod holders.

A custom-sculpted hard top was created for the 80’ Hatteras motoryacht TIRELESS, integrating the existing arched wings and factory mast. The installation included a molded drop-down TV pocket, a full bridge enclosure, molded satellite dome pods, and a complete LED lighting package.

The BAT Beaufort crew equipped the 54’ Paul Mann DOUBLE B with a custom half-tower package including twin satellite dome pods, a molded radar pod, full LED lighting, recessed teaser reels, and a bridge rail with rod holders.

The 70' Viking KRAKEN came to Bausch-American Towers for a full tower refit incorporating the existing factory hard top. The package includes full LED lighting, a new bridge rail with rod holders, a blacked-out buggy top with a molded satellite pod, a control box with steering, and a bench seat with back rest.

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North Carolina Highlights

There’s a fit for every vessel with Icom’s new M506 VHF fixed-mount radio. The M506 Series offers five new models that provide real-world radio solutions for serious yacht owners and recreational boaters alike. Advanced features such as Automatic Identification System (AIS) and an NMEA 0183/2000 interface make navigating and communicating effortless over open water. All M506 Series radios include built-in Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) for maximum safety at sea,

along with advanced audio features. Never miss a call again with “Last Call” voice recording and playback, which can automatically save or manually record an incoming call for up to two minutes. The M506’s bidirectional active noise-cancelling feature improves incoming/

outgoing voice and reduces background noise up to 90 percent.

All M506 AIS models include an integrated AIS receiver to obtain real-time vessel traffic data on a large 132 x 96 pixel dot-matrix display. An access plotter appears right on the screen, as well as target and danger lists and the target call function for individual DSC.

Both M506 AIS options and Icom’s M506 N2K versions are available with either a front or rear microphone configuration offering NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 connectivity. This plug-and-play functionality allows the radio unit to connect easily to a NMEA 2000 network and other equipment. (The basic M506 NMEA model has only NMEA 0183 pre-installed.)

All five M506 models feature military-grade construction, an IPX8 Submersible Plus™ rating and an intuitive user interface. A 25-W two-way hailer, foghorn and RX speaker functions are also built in.

Create the ideal marine navigation suite by combining the M506 Series with other Icom products such as the MA-500TR Class B AIS transponder and the MarineCommander™ navigation system. For second station capability, add the COMMANDMICIV™ remote control microphone to the M506 Series. Icom designs products to meet every need with a focus on reliability and safety. For more information, go to www.icomamerica.com or call IMS American at 772-219-4460.

Just when you thought onboard entertainment couldn’t get any better, KVH introduces the new TracVision TV-series! This powerful new family of fully stabilized marine satellite systems provides improved performance for superior onboard satellite TV entertainment, including HDTV. Developed by the engineering team at KVH, the leader in marine satellite television for over 20 years, the new TracVision line allows everyone to enjoy their favorite TV programming from DISH and DIRECTV, whether relaxing at anchor or cruising offshore in demanding sea conditions. And with the new TracVision TV-series, more than 300 channels are now available to enjoy on the water – just like at home.

The new TracVision TV-series includes the TracVision TV1, TV3, TV5 and TV6 – offering a full range of features and options and the perfect size for any yacht. The TracVision TV-series brings your favorite entertainment on board in the best possible way – with sophisticated technology that’s simple to use.

KVH’s proven satellite technology offers advanced inertial-based stabilized search for fast satellite acquisition, high-performance tracking for a crystal-clear television picture, stronger signals, wider geographic coverage, and DVB-S2 compatibility with all modern Ku-band satellites. And the single-cable design makes installation a snap.

What’s more, the TracVision TV-series antenna system includes the innovative TV-Hub, an IP-enabled antenna control unit with Ethernet connection and built-in Wi-Fi interface allowing access to system information from any Wi-Fi device. The TV-Hub makes controlling your TracVision TV-series system a breeze with a state-of-the-art web interface designed for optimal viewing on your smartphone, tablet, smart TV or computer.

With the new TracVision TV-series from KVH, it’s never been easier to enjoy your favorite DISH and DIRECTV programming anywhere on the water. Visit www.tracvision.com/tvseries or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460 for more information.

The new KVH TracVision TV-series

New TracVision Series: Superior Satellite TV

The Icom M506 Series: A Fit for Every Vessel

Product Profile

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TracVision TV-Hub IP-enabled antenna control unit

Icom 506 VHF fixed mount radio

The new owner of this unique 74’ Lyman-Morse motoryacht selected ACY to restore this classic commuter yacht to its original splendor with a dramatic hull color change, a new teak deck and a number of additional technology and systems upgrades. Recipient of a 2003 International Superyachts Society design award for “Best Power,” the vessel was designed by the renowned Setzer Yacht

Architects studio and built at the Lyman-Morse shipyard in Thomaston, Maine – a celebrated builder of custom motor and sailing yachts with a rich New England history dating back to the 1920s. Overseeing the vessel’s restoration as project manager is none other than its original designer, Ward Setzer.

Under Setzer’s careful direction, ACY has mapped out a plan to bring the vessel back to top form with a new paint job and a series of needed repairs and sensible improvements. The hull color will change from red to Awlcraft Flag Blue and the bottom from black to green. The vessel will also receive a complete topside paint with Awlcraft 2000 White. All exterior brightwork will receive new Awlspar varnish and Awlcraft 2000 Clear. Interior brightwork will be repaired and refinished. New teak decking will be installed, including the cockpit, fore and side decks, cockpit steps and swim platform. All forward-facing windows will be replaced and re-bedded. The vessel will undergo engine service and exhaust system repairs, and all ship’s systems will be thoroughly checked and repaired as needed. The port and starboard drive shafts will be removed, serviced by the manufacturer and re-installed. All deck gear, ground tackle and mooring equipment will be repaired or replaced as needed. A 12” stern thruster will be installed beneath the swim platform.

Vessel upgrades include the installation of all new galley appliances and the replacement of the existing trash compactor with a wine cooler. The existing cockpit propane grill will be removed and replaced with a new Kenyon Texan electric grill. Interior lighting will be upgraded to LED. All exterior lighting will also be replaced and upgraded. A number of audio-video system upgrades will be performed by IMS American. Upon completion, the proud name "Resilience" will be applied in silver leaf to the transom. Look for updates on this exciting transformation at www.americancustomyachts.com and www.setzerdesign.com.

ACY is transforming the 58’ SARAH B – a hardy sportfishing vessel built by Dixon Marine Group of Nova Scotia – in preparation for a new life in the Florida Keys. Highlighted by a hull color change from dark blue to Awlcraft 2000 Medium Silver, a number of significant repairs and upgrades have been performed, including the installation of a new Steelhead Marine Esprit Yacht Crane to hoist the 16’ Boston Whaler tender, painted medium silver to match. The bulwarks, inner liner and non-skid have been repainted with Awlcraft 2000 Gray. All topside components have been painted Awlcraft 2000 White. Additional exterior work includes the replacement of dingy chocks, repair of mezzanine steps, tackle center modifications, keel repair, prop reconditioning, the installation of a new windlass and new Lumishore underwater LED lights, and a full bottom job. Additional work includes renewing damaged engine mounts and performing

a complete inspection and service of the running gear and all ship’s systems. A number of refits will also be performed, including creating a new aft deck dinette seating arrangement, adding interior shelving and an upper berth in the master stateroom, and installing new transom boarding steps. In addition, IMS American will perform a number of electronics upgrades, and American Canvas and Interiors will fabricate a new flybridge enclosure, along with new cushions and side curtains for the aft deck dinette.

Vessel SpotlightRestoring an Original Beauty

ACY Gives New Life to Canadian Sportfisher

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Garmin understands the key to making its marine products desirable to consumers. They call it “The Power of Simple.” Going to great lengths to develop and refine its line of high-demand marine products, Garmin is committed to delivering advanced technology and creating systems that are as easy to use as they are easy on the eyes. The Garmin marine portfolio includes some of the industry’s most sophisticated products – including Garmin’s popular chartplotters, touchscreen MFDs, sonar, high-definition radar and autopilot systems, as well as high-resolution mapping and instrumentation products – all widely known for reliability and simplicity. Garmin’s ground-breaking marine systems include the GPSMAP 8000 glass helm display series featuring an improved design with sophisticated multi-function displays and an intuitive user interface. Garmin’s DownVü™ and SideVü™ down- and side-scanning sonar technology captures high-resolution imagery with precision and clarity that is unmatched. Committed to pioneering new solutions to meet any challenge, Garmin recently teamed up with Volvo Penta to create an integrated glass cockpit system for Volvo Penta engines and steering systems. And thanks to the new Garmin Helm mobile app, boaters can now view and control their Garmin multi-function chartplotters from the convenience of their mobile device. If that’s not enough, boaters can also access important marine navigation data right from their Garmin quatix™ marine GPS watch.

When it comes to user-friendly, practical solutions to the world of marine navigation, look no further than Garmin. For more information on the complete line of Garmin marine products, go to www.garmin.com/en-US/explore/onthewater or call IMS American at 772-219-4460.

Awlwood is a new and exciting clear coat system exclusive to AkzoNobel brand, Awlgrip, a leader in yacht coatings. Available in satin or gloss finish that performs way beyond traditional varnish, Awlwood is designed to work in perfect harmony with all wood types.

An industry first, Awlwood has a unique patented resin technology that features UV absorbers bonded directly to the resin resulting in outstanding multi-season performance, lasting up to four times longer than traditional premium yacht varnish if applied professionally per instructions.

Awlwood's patented Flex-Link™ primer technology penetrates and bonds directly to the cellular structure of the wood providing extended performance while retaining the same gloss and natural appearance as first application. By combining the primer and clear together, the synergistic effect ensures a perfect bond offering flexibility and protection unlike any varnish on the market.

Awlwood has a high-building, fast-curing formula that allows for multiple applications per day over a wide temperature and

humidity range, using a variety of methods, resulting in a beautiful gloss finish and natural appearance. The synergistic primer and finish system is designed to reduce work time with faster drying and fewer coats needed to create the lasting beauty

and protection your vessel deserves. For additional information, visit www.awlgrip.com.

New Awlwood Clear Coat Offers Unrivaled Protection and Finish

Discover The Power of Simple with Garmin

Product Profile

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Founded in 1973 in West Palm Beach, Florida, Marine Exhaust Systems is a family-owned-and-operated business specializing in the fabrication of complete marine exhaust systems for a wide range of recreational, commercial and military vessels. Incorporating over 150 years of combined engineering and installation experience, Marine Exhaust Systems has created a unique manufacturing process to create reliable systems that meet the demands of discriminating boat builders and owners worldwide. The company uses only American-made materials and components built to the highest standards.

Marine Exhaust Systems holds patents on many of the fabricated parts used in its systems, including precision engine flanges and high-performance spray heads – all manufactured in house out of high-grade metals to withstand the harsh marine environment. Marine Exhaust Systems also invented hard coat insulation for marine application that has established a proven track record.

An OEM supplier for Caterpillar, MTU North America, Cummins and Mercury engines, Marine Exhaust Systems also works in conjunction with MAN Engines North America on joint venture projects. These relationships give Marine Exhaust Systems a detailed firsthand knowledge of each engine manufacturer’s specifications.

From conceptual design to custom production and expert installation, Marine Exhaust Systems is a single-source provider offering complete

engine exhaust solutions backed by a performance guarantee. When it comes to delivering innovative and expertly designed exhaust solutions, Marine Exhaust Systems offers unrivaled quality, reliability and service from turbo to transom. For more information, visit www.marine-exhaust.com or contact American Custom Yachts at 772-221-9100.

Southern California’s Glacier Corporation is a leading single-source provider of marine refrigeration systems for the recreational yachting market. The company has earned a reputation for designing reliable custom marine cooling systems for many of the world’s finest yachts. From stainless steel upright styles to built-in coolers, drawer units and deck boxes, Glacier can design and fabricate custom refrigeration units to meet the demands and lifestyle of any vessel owner.

Glacier has worked closely with the new construction and custom refit divisions at American Custom Yachts since 2008. Working with conceptual sketches or templates supplied by ACY, Glacier creates detailed CAD drawings of the freezers and refrigerator components needed, along with complete system and electrical schematics – all of which can be easily adjusted and refined via e-mail. Once the drawings are approved, Glacier immediately begins the process of metal fabrication, adding the insulation and cooling components and supplying all the necessary condensing units, valves and controls as per the predetermined specifications. Everything is then packed, crated and shipped to Florida for installation by ACY personnel.

ACY and Glacier have worked together on a number of unique and challenging projects over the years, all with outstanding results. Several ACY fleet vessels proudly carry Glacier refrigeration units, including the 65' FREEDOM, the 68’ SILVER ARROW, the 80’ PATRIOT and the 90’ C’EST LA VIE. ACY has also performed several notable refit projects that include Glacier products, including installations aboard the 60’ Spencer CAROL LIBBY and the 58’ Jarrett Bay WHOO DAT.

This winning combination of reliable products and in-house design and fabrication allows Glacier and ACY to create unique and space-saving marine refrigeration solutions with a common goal: keeping food and beverages cold and bait frozen. Visit Glacier online at www.glaciercorp.com or call ACY at 772-221-9100.

Innovative Refrigeration Solutions from Glacier

Trust Your Boat to Marine Exhaust Systems

Product Profile

Marine Exhaust Systems created a custom exhaust system for the 72' Viking BYTE ME to accommodate the installation of new CAT C32 ACERT Tier 3 engines.

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(772) 221-9100 · Fax: (772) 288-4993 · Cell: (772) 260-9090 · www.americancanvasandinteriors.com

ACI NEWSExperts in Canvas and Upholstery

ACI designed an innovative sun shade for the foredeck of the 43' Jupiter INVINCIBLE, along with matching boat and engine covers.

American Canvas and Interiors fabricated this full cockpit sun cover for the ACY63 FEARLESS.

This functional cockpit sun shade was created for the 61’ custom sportfish HADENUFF.

Smart Solutions to Protect Your Boat

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ACY Vessels in the NewsCelebrating their tenth year on the water, Team QUE MAS turned on the heat in Bermuda yet again in 2014, winning the Bermuda Big Game Classic and taking the top honors in the Marlin Magazine Manufacturer’s Cup. QUE MAS was also honored as the Bermuda Department of Tourism’s Top Team and recognized as the tournament’s only repeat winner. The team placed third overall in the 2014 Bermuda Triple Crown Championship and third in the 2014 Custom Shootout held out of Abaco, Bahamas. A big ACY shout out goes to owner/angler Wally Whitley, Captain Travis Butters and mates Robert Helms, Chad Ford, Blake Ford, Donny Lange and Tyler Valles.

ACY70 QUE MAS Turns 10 and Turns on the Heat!

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Manufactured by Sea Hawk Paints, a division of New Nautical Coatings, Inc., Sea Hawk’s new Hawk Epoxy is a state-of-the-art, low-viscosity epoxy system used for yacht construction and repair. This highly functional system offers six different Hawk Epoxy fillers that can be used with any combination of Hawk Epoxy resin and catalyst, giving the user a wide range of epoxy blends within a single system. Hawk Epoxy’s color-coded sizing procedure ensures absolute accuracy in mixing.

“If you need a fast cure due to schedule constraints or need a very thick fairing compound, Hawk Epoxy has the answer,” said Erik Norrie, CEO of New Nautical Coatings. “After a proper cure, it can be sanded into a fine-tuned shape for the highest-quality finish. The foundation of our system is our R1 Epoxy Resin which fulfills all of the different application needs with different catalyst and fairing options. Bonding, fairing, coating, waterproofing and air exchange reduction have never been simpler.”

Hawk Epoxy’s R1 Epoxy Resin offers superior adhesion, strength, filling and moisture blocking capabilities. Catalysts include the C1 Ultra Slow, C2 Slow Cure, C3 Fast Cure and C5 Clear Finish. Choosing the correct catalyst depends on factors such as air temperature, structure requirements and working time. Fillers include F1 High Load Adhesive Fiber, F2 Structural Adhesive, F3 Light Density Adhesive Micro Fiber, F4 Bridging Adhesive, F5 Light Density Fairing and F6 Micro Sphere Fairing.

Hawk Epoxy fills a need for every repair.

For additional information on Hawk Epoxy and the full line of Sea Hawk products, go to www.seahawkpaints.com or contact American Custom Yachts at 772-221-9100.

Sea Hawk Introduces Ground-Breaking New Epoxy System

Product Profile

Offering a variety of fillers and curing schedules, Hawk Epoxy is the perfect product to repair minor hull damage.

The ACY70 QUE MAS arrives in Bermuda for the 2014 Triple Crown Championship.

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ACY recently performed a complete repower, along with a number of upgrades on the 63’ Hines Farley ROWDY,

a vessel with a great and lengthy relationship with the American Family. New MAN 1550 HP engines were installed, along with new transmissions. The engine room received new lights, a new ventilation system, new steering lines and new Soundown insulation. Additional work included a full bottom paint, generator exhaust repair, freshwater system service, air-conditioning system modifications, running gear maintenance and the installation of new fuel tank sight gauges and new propellers. The toe rail was fully restored, sanded and refinished with Awlspar

varnish and Awlbrite clear coat. Interior upgrades included a significant modification to the salon to accommodate the addition of a new Samsung H6350 40” LED HDTV, installed by IMS American. Additional salon components include an Apple Mac mini computer, an Apple TV receiver and a DIRECTV H24 HDTV MPEG-4 satellite receiver – all controlled by a Universal remote. New salon carpet was also installed with an acoustic sound barrier underlayment. ROWDY is recharged and ready for action!

The 112’ Westport SEA BEAR recently returned to ACY for routine maintenance including a complete bottom job and full bottom paint. ACY also repainted the running gear and bow thruster prop and applied PropSpeed coating to all components. Additional work included minor paint touch ups and blends to the port and starboard side doors. ACY is honored to help keep this elegant, meticulously maintained yacht on the water for a long time friend.

Vessel SpotlightROWDY Recharged!

SEA BEAR Returns

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A recognized global leader in underwater marine lighting technology, Lumishore has established a reputation for producing the brightest, most beautiful underwater LED lighting solutions on the market. Capable of outfitting vessels of all sizes from super yachts to tenders, Lumishore offers a full range of high-output LED lighting systems, including surface mount, thru-hull and specialty super yacht systems with power outputs ranging from 1,300 fixture lumens to 23,400 fixture lumens.

The new EOS Color Controller sets unprecedented and unrivalled new standards for underwater lighting systems. The controller has built-in Wi-Fi for wireless integration with

phone and tablet technology. It features integrated sound-to-light for the perfect boating mood experience, moving Lumishore even further into the future. Lumishore is committed to providing the boating industry with the brightest, highest-quality underwater LED boat lights on the market. Using the latest proprietary LED technology, Lumishore underwater lights offer the finest boat lighting solutions for all types of vessels, including superyachts. With its broad selection of underwater LED boat lights, Lumishore is sure to have a solution for your marine lighting application.

In 2008, Lumishore launched the world’s first color-changing, color-mixing underwater LED lighting system, forever changing the face of underwater lighting. In 2012, Lumishore was recognized as a finalist in the prestigious 2012 Design Award METS competition. In 2014, Lumishore was named the winner of the Queen's Awards for Enterprise, Great Britain’s most coveted award for innovation, international trade and sustainable product development.

Lumishore is headquartered in Swansea, UK, with main distribution and product support located in Sarasota, Florida. For more information, visit www.lumishore.com or contact ACY at 772-221-9100.

A leader in marine specialty products, Florida Bow Thrusters (FBT) offers expert installation and service of a full range of electric and hydraulic bow and stern thrusters, hydraulic swim platforms, underwater lights and gyro stabilizers.

When it comes to bow thrusters, FBT is in a class apart. By establishing close partnerships with the world's foremost thruster manufacturers, FBT is able to offer an unmatched selection of bow thrusters and hardware for both power and sailboats. FBT works closely with America’s top boat dealers, marinas and service yards to make sure customers’ needs are met and installations are completed in a timely and professional manner. A bow thruster installation typically takes just a few days, and every effort is made to minimize time out of the water. FBT’s factory-authorized installers follow strict guidelines to prep and protect every vessel, ensuring a clean and efficient installation.

Florida Bow Thrusters installs innovative and highly functional hydraulic swim platforms through its Poseidon Lifts division. Imagine launching and recovering personal watercraft or lowering swimmers and gear into the water with a push of a button. Handsomely integrated into the transom, Poseidon Lifts make fun on the water easier and more enjoyable than ever. FBT is also a certified installer of Lumishore underwater lights and Seakeeper gyro stabilizers.

FBT affiliate Vetus Marine is the largest distributor of Vetus products in United States, offering incomparable nationwide customer service and product selection. Vetus equipment, known for high quality and reliability, has established a reputation for reliability and excellence among service professionals and boat owners alike.

Visit FBT at www.floridabowthrusters.com and Vetus Marine at www.vetusmarine.com or call ACY at 772-221-9100 to discuss your next product installation.

Innovative Products from Florida Bow Thrusters

Brilliant Underwater Lighting from Lumishore

Product Profile

A major vessel refit is underway at ACY on the 72' Viking BYTE ME that includes a complete repower with new transmissions, a new underwater exhaust system by Marine Exhaust Systems, a new generator and a custom foam-core encapsulated transom extension. Additional work includes the replacement of cutlass bearings and the fabrication of new engine room shelves by ACY and a custom pilot house sofa by American Canvas and Interiors.

Pictured top left: Utilizing a 150-ton Travelift carrying steel beams to counter balance the engine weight, ACY mechanics delicately guided a pair of 1,925 HP CAT C32 ACERT engines through the enlarged deckhouse entry and lowered them gently into place on the engine beds.

Pictured bottom left: Final steps of the transom refit included relocating the trim tabs, installing a high-definition camera and Lumishore underwater lights, and fabricating an access door to service these components.

Vessel SpotlightBYTE ME Gets a Boost!

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Performed under the attentive eye of Captain Tim Bright, ACY fabricated a custom transom extension fitting neatly below the swim platform. The extension is designed to enhance the vessel's performance by providing added lift and buoyancy, while also accommodating the relocation of the exhaust from the stern to the hull.

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDWEST PALM BCH, FL

PERMIT NO. 19466800 S.W. Jack James Drive · Stuart, FL 34997

COMING IN OUR NEXT ISSUE INSIDE THE NEW VENTURE BY AMERICAN

This feature answers commonly-asked questions posed to American Custom Yachts (ACY) regarding boat construction, maintenance and repair. To submit a question, visit the yacht doctors online at www.americancustomyachts.com/ask-the-yacht-doctors. If your question is selected, we'll send you an ACY T-shirt. (To protect your privacy, your name will not be used.) The doctors are always in!

Q: I’m noticing some blisters appearing just below the waterline on a vessel I purchased a year ago. The boat received a bottom job just before I bought it, and it looked good. Now I’m concerned that the blisters could be part of a bigger problem. What is the best way to determine the severity of the situation?

A: Bottom blistering is not uncommon, but it can become a real problem if not fixed properly. It’s possible that improper repairs were performed on your vessel that simply masked the underlying cause. Without knowing your vessel’s bottom maintenance history, the only sure way to address the issue is to completely strip the hull and have the blisters repaired properly by a qualified boatyard. This is particularly important if you have a heavy build-up of bottom paint.

When it comes to effectively stripping bottom paint off vessels, ACY has had excellent results with a company called Eco Strip. Employing a unique low-pressure stripping method that utilizes hot water and

volcanic pumice applied through a finely tuned nozzle, Eco Strip completely removes multiple layers of surface coatings right down to the bare hull. The system is safe on all hull surfaces, including fiberglass, aluminum and steel, as well as running gear and wood parts, leaving surfaces clean and ready for repairs and new paint application.

Dedicated to protecting the environment, Eco Strip erects a full enclosure with a filtration system around each boat to collect debris. When the job is complete, the enclosure is removed, and any remaining debris is properly disposed of by use of an industrial vacuum.

When ACY customers need to get to the bottom of the situation, they rely on the coating removal specialists at Eco Strip. Visit www.ecostripusa.com or contact American Custom Yachts at 772-221-9100 for more information.

Ask the Yacht Doctors©

Design & Production by AMG Creative

Managing Editor, Photography ........ Chris ShultzArt and Editorial Director....... Jennifer LaCombeEditorial Support ............................Monica FalgoutEd

itor's

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New Management Team at ACYAmerican Custom Yachts is pleased to announce the appointment of Dominick LaCombe, Jr. as ACY general manager, Davey LaCombe as yard manager and John Adams as service manager. Bringing extensive experience to their positions, they are ready to discuss your next project. Give them a call at 772-221-9100!

Be sure to visit our online ship store. It's the only source for official ACY wear. And, we've added new items, including performance shirts,

camo hats and our popular "American Tradition" T-shirt in new colors. You're sure to find the perfect gift for the boat lover in your family! Visit www.americancustomyachts.com and click the "online ship store" link at the top.

Shop ACY Wear Online

The coating removal specialists at Eco Strip completely stripped this hull to the bare bottom, allowing ACY to mark and properly repair blisters and blemishes.