We take a look at some of the best new boat accessories that will be making its way to a shop near you in 2023When it comes to picking the best boat accessories of any year, the Marine Equipment Trade Show (METS) is the place to be, where many brands launch their latest gadgets and tech due to hit the market. Every year the Yachting World team attends this event to get the inside line on the newest gadgets coming to the boating world.
\nMETS is also the location of the illustrious DAME awards with one overall winner, five category winners and lots of special mentions, all of which form a good list of the best boat accessories and tech for 2023.
\nWe\u2019ve picked out our favourite award winners and looked at some of the other eye-catching innovations to bring you our list of the best boating kit for 2023.<\/p>\n
Ocean Signal rescueMe PLB3
\nWhat is it? The first compact MOB beacon to combine AIS and satellite technology
\nWho\u2019s it for? Each and every person who puts to sea, particularly leisure sailors
\nThis new personal beacon arguably presents the best possible chance for a MOB casualty to be rescued, even if they are incapacitated.
\nOcean Signal has specialised in making compact antennae and personal beacons over the last decade. And, while you\u2019ll have to forgive the barrage of acronyms, this rescueME PLB3 is very much the product many of us have been waiting for since personal MOB AIS\u00a0beacons first started coming on the market.
\nBy integrating Cospas Sarsat beacon technology, as used by global rescue services, with AIS, it has created the most powerful means of alerting others to a MOB or distress situation.
\nFor those in VHF proximity to other vessels, the AIS MOB signal offers the most likely chance of a quick rescue. If this signal is not received by a vessel within range, then the 406MHz global satellite system will trigger a response suitable for the location.
\nThe PLB3 combines GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) positioning, 406MHz and 121.5MHz signals, plus the new Galileo Return Link Service (RLS) technology, which alerts users that their signal has been received, all within a unit the size of a conventional hand flare.
\nIt also manages to include Near Field Communications (NFC), a clever and current method for users to monitor their beacon\u2019s performance and maintenance requirements. This technology can help show a live digital record of the beacon by simply placing your phone within its range. An important benefit of this is knowing how much battery life is left\u00a0\u2013 this PLB has a five year battery life but the battery is not rechargeable.
\nIt features manual or auto activation and each PLB3 is registered, so if accidentally activated its owner will receive a phone call. But there is also an \u2018off\u2019 button, and you can check on the mobile app the amount of time it was activated for.
\nSo why has this not been done before? Ocean Signal explained that until now there have been separate AIS and PLB standards, but that its engineering expert Simon Nolan sat on a committee to rewrite the regulations and help push through what is equivalent to a new EPIRB standard. The challenge was combining technologies at such a compact physical size while providing the battery power necessary to run the alarm for the required 24 hours.
\n\u201cWe could probably have got this one out earlier but to physically shrink battery size it needed a lot of work on it,\u201d Nolan told us.
\nThe DAME jury, a panel of experts looking at design and innovation at the METS, is chaired by designer Andre Hoek and includes former YW editor Elaine Bunting. The jury said: \u2018in a rescue situation speed is always of the essence and this unit provides the very best chance for survival through this combination of long- and short-range detection.\u2019
\nThe waterproof rescueME PLB3 weighs 190g, measures 200x36x30mm and is now approved for sale in the UK and Europe.
\nSee more at Ocean Signal
\nNote: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn\u2019t affect our editorial independence.
\nIntegrel Plus alternator\/generator fits into the back of a standard inboard to offer a hybrid propulsion and charging solution. The Ultra (below) provides a boost function
\nIntegrel Next Generation
\nWhat is it? A very high output alternator that can replace traditional generators, plus hybrid propulsion options
\nWho\u2019s it for? Cruising yachts with power generation requirements above 5kW per day
\nFour years ago Integrel launched an intelligent system allied to an extra large 9kW belt-driven alternator that makes use of the spare capacity that\u2019s intrinsic in marine diesel engine installations. It was overall winner of the 2018 DAME awards and is now fitted as standard on an increasing number of new yachts, including all Balance Catamarans, which no longer have an optional diesel generator. It also features on the options list for many yards. High-profile clients include Riley Whitelum and Elayna Carausu of YouTube channel Sailing La Vagabond.
\nDuring the Covid lockdowns, when the company\u2019s engineers were unable to travel internationally to complete or advise on installations, Integrel invested heavily in product development, massively accelerating the launch of new equipment, resulting in three new Next Generation products that won this year\u2019s DAME awards Machinery, Propulsion, Mechanical and Electrical category.
\nThe Integrel Inline performs exactly the same task as the original big alternator. However, instead of being a belt-driven device, it has a thin 10kW, 48V \u2018pancake\u2019 alternator that slots between the engine and gearbox. This lengthens the drivetrain by only 20cm, and dispenses with the belt drive to significantly reduce routine maintenance. It\u2019s suitable for engines from around 30hp-200hp.
\nThe Integrel Plus is a powerful hybrid propulsion and charging solution, with an electric motor rated at 30kW continuous and 50kW peak output at the back of the diesel engine. This serves two functions \u2013 it can be used for propulsion over shorter distances and at lower speeds, such as when entering or leaving port. Alternatively it can be used as a massive alternator\/generator to charge a 40kW battery bank when the diesel motor is running.
\nThe final new item, the Integrel Ultra, has a Torque Boost function, for planing motoryachts that need a big burst of power for a few seconds to get on the plane, before throttling back to a comfortable cruising speed. Incorporating an electric motor with 100kW continuous (150kW peak) rating into the drivetrain allows that short-term boost power to come from batteries, rather than internal combustion engines. The engines can therefore be up to 40% smaller, reducing weight and significantly improving efficiency at cruising speeds. At displacement speeds the electric motor can be used as a very high-output alternator to recharge the battery bank, thereby rendering a separate generator unnecessary.
\nSee more at Integrel Solutions<\/p>\n
Simarine Nereide 3
\nThis digital switching brand is increasingly popular on new yachts and its third generation product received a DAME nomination. New features include 80% lower power consumption, a bigger LCD screen, and soft labels for each of the 18 hard-wired tactile aluminium switches on the boat\u2019s main panel.
\nThis allows boatbuilders and owners to quickly and easily change the function of any switch to best suit the equipment fitted to an individual boat, or to neatly incorporate extra kit added after the boat leaves the factory. Button labels can be either static, or dynamic, with the latter combining multiple functions on a single button. For instance, you could have a single button for refrigeration that brings up a further menu with a switch for each individual fridge and freezer unit on board.
\nThe system can therefore be used to control a huge number of devices, with a minimum of complexity for the end user. There are also separate modules for bilge pumps and for the main power switches. At the same time, it also includes back up manual switches and fuses, while Simarine\u2019s excellent Pico battery and tank level monitoring display is built into the main Nereide 3 display. It\u2019s also designed for plug-and-play compatibility with Sentinel Marine\u2019s BM-50 Remote Management System.
\nSee more at Simarine<\/p>\n
Aqua superPower
\nAs electric propulsion becomes more and more widely adopted, the need for fast electric charging escalates. Aqua superPower is rolling out the world\u2019s first dedicated global marine fast charging network across Europe and the US. Its knowledge and experience stems from the automotive world (it built up the UK network for automotive fast chargers). Aqua offers the backend part, the safe chargers for docks and marinas, using IP-65-rated waterproof hardware.
\nTypical shorepower connections are designed for slow overnight charging, whereas superPower uses ultrafast 25kW-150kW DC charging. This gives the potential to recharge battery power on both leisure and commercial boats to over 60% in just 40 minutes. Considering the mix of high voltage with the marine environment, a key component is Aqua\u2019s use of CCS Type 2 standard connectors, which the company says are completely safe, even if dropped in the water.
\nIts business model is aimed at encouraging marinas to install them on a long lease.
\nWith the demand for higher and higher charges comes the need for faster chargers. \u201cOur network is designed to create a seamless user experience that is accessible to boat users via the Aqua app or RFID card, enabling users to view a map showing charger locations, offering navigational aids, and managing charging sessions,\u201d says CEO Alex Bamberg.\u201d
\nSee more at Aqua superPower<\/p>\n
Cyclops Marine Wireless Load Pin
\nOver the past 15 years load sensing has changed from a technology in its infancy even on the latest IMOCA 60s to widespread use in fleets such as J\/70s and two-handed racing in small offshore yachts. Part of this is down to companies such as Cyclops Marine producing streamlined systems that are simple to swap for the original components, thus making retrofitting very easy.
\nYet the results can be dramatic. Kate Cope, organiser of the UK double-handed offshore series told us that when she fitted one to her Sun Fast 3200R2 it showed she was 400kg short of forestay tension when sailing upwind in strong breezes. Cranking on more backstay boosted boat speed by 5-8% by preventing the boat being overpowered, thereby reducing heel and rudder drag.
\nThe Cyclops Marine Wireless Load Pin was DAME nominated as its a straightforward drop-in replacement for a standard rigging pin and is the first load pin that doesn\u2019t need to be wired in. The 27.5mm size entered in the DAME awards is suitable for the cap shrouds of 55ft cruising catamarans (which allows an alarm to be set to warn of the boat becoming close to being overpowered) or the forestay of a similar sized racing monohull.
\nSee more at Cyclops Marine<\/p>\n
ePropulsion I-20 electric inboard
\nePropulsion\u2019s I range of electric inboard motors for shaft drive boats is intended to be easy to fit on existing engine beds. This makes retrofitting easy and allows boatbuilders to offer both diesel and electric propulsion for the same model.
\nInitially the range consists of three models, at 10, 20 and 40kW, equivalent to 30, 55 and 75hp diesel inboards respectively. The smaller unit is air-cooled, while water cooling is recommended for the larger two. All have integrated battery management systems to simplify installation and save space. At the same time the company launched a complementary 96V 10kW G-series lithium-ion phosphate battery.
\nAs with all other ePropulsion units, regeneration is included at standard. Real-world testing has yet to take place, but for the I-20 unit calculations show 250W at 5 knots of boat speed, 500W at 6 knots of speed and 1,300W at 8 knots.
\nSee more at ePropulsion<\/p>\n
Karver KJSK
\nThis French company won a special mention for its Karver Jammer Staysail Kit (KJSK), an easy set-up for rigging an inner forestay for a heavy weather or storm jib.
\nIt\u2019s designed for use with furling sails that incorporate their own textile forestay and Karver recommends a halyard lock to eliminate movement and wear over the sheave.
\nTensioning is via a 3:1 tackle that can be taken directly aft to a winch, using a snatchblock if necessary to create a fair lead. Once taught, the built-in cleat allows this line to be taken off the winch and coiled up out of the way. Attachment to the deck is via either metallic fastenings or high-tech lashing.
\nSee more at Karver<\/p>\n
Mantus dinghy navlight
\nThis looks like a handy tricolour light for use on a dinghy which could also double as an emergency navigation light. The light has US Coast Guard approval for two miles. It has five modes including tricolour and bicolour and it\u2019s possible to select between the three colours\u00a0\u2013 for use as only a stern light for example. The Mantus light is waterproof to IPX8 and has fittings to allow it to clamp onto a rail, or attach to an engine cowling using a 3M pad. Where the base is permanent the body can quickly disconnect which makes it useful for USB charging. A full three hour charge gives the light approximately eight hours use \u2013 which should prove plenty for dinghy use.
\nSee more at Mantus Marine<\/p>\n
Secumar Furio
\nWatersports enthusiasts typically rely only on buoyancy aids, rather than full lifejackets that will support a casualty\u2019s head above the water if they become unconscious. However, that\u2019s far from an ideal situation, especially for those who are becoming older, or are practising watersports in an area without immediate safety cover.
\nThe Furio is a solution \u2013 it\u2019s a conventional buoyancy aid with 50N of flotation, plus features a PLB pouch, back protection and integrated provision for a harness hook. However, it also has a 110N inflatable bladder that transforms it into a full manually activated 160N lifejacket.
\nSee more at Secumar<\/p>\n
Regatta Safelock
\nA shocking statistic from the RNLI\u2019s free lifejacket inspections a few years ago was that the inflation cylinders of roughly one third of those checked were not fully screwed home and therefore at risk of not inflating properly. Regatta and Aalesund Protective Wear have solved the problem with this neat friction device that physically prevents the cylinder rotating after installation.
\nThe two models offered enable retrofitting to the almost ubiquitous UML MK5 and Pro Sensor Elite lifejacket trigger mechanisms. DAME judges praised the Safelock, saying it was: \u2018An excellent example of how clever design thinking can resolve long-standing problems.\u2019
\nSee more at Regatta<\/p>\n
Rooster Aquafleece Robe
\nChanging robes may have become the ubiquitous watersports fashion statement, but at least they have a practical element. This is a versatile offering from Rooster as it has a removable, washable fleece lining.
\nFounder Steve Cockerill explained to us that his company wanted to offer a changing robe, but \u201cwe wanted to do something different, make it unique.\u201d It uses Rooster\u2019s proven durable Aquafleece material as the outer layer, which is a fully waterproof PU coated fleece, permeable but not enough to call breathable. Inside is a teddy fleece liner made from recycled polyester, which can be removed to be washed and so kept fresh.
\nSee more at Rooster Sailing<\/p>\n
Boatasy Ropecleaner
\nFrom the makers of Ghook comes another \u2018simple works best\u2019 product for cleaning the typically muddy and barnacle encrusted stern docking lines found in many marinas, particularly in the Med. During its studies Boatasy found that giving a rectangular shape to the spiral metal works best on dock lines and its tool makes it quick and easy to attach onto lines up to 32mm diameter. The sharp inside edges of the stainless steel cut away algae, dirt and shells, says sales manager Gregor Jereti\u010d. He estimates that just 10 minutes of using this to clean the lines three times a year is all that would be needed to keep them fouling free and without needing to hire a diver or using chemicals.
\nSee more at Boatasy<\/p>\n
Roll-up emergency VHF antenna
\nHistorically, emergency VHF antennas had a short and stubby antenna, which can limit range. Shakespeare improved on this a couple of years ago with the inflatable Galaxy INFL8-5 VHF antenna, which incorporates a full-length aerial.
\nRevolve, a spin-off of a firm producing roll-up antennae using carbon fibre for military and search and rescue use, is now employing the same technology to produce a 2.5m high antenna with a 3\/4 wave dipole antenna embedded within the laminate. It takes only seconds to unroll and includes a strobe light at the top. It won a DAME special mention.
\nThe company also produces a roll-up boat hook with accessories including soft and hard bristle deck brush heads.
\nSee more at Revolvetec<\/p>\n
Foam anchor
\nDeck and sunlounging cushions, together with saloon seat backs are big business today. But they need to stay in place \u2013 how many broken buttons or Velcro fastenings have you seen? Here is a simple but practical solution which uses powerful magnets embedded in the foam of cushions, rather than trying to connect fabric to fabric.
\nThe New Zealand company claims they will last forever and will not rust as they use aircraft grade epoxy coated magnets and marine grade stainless steel fixings. Depending on the application, either strips or single points can be used and after installation they are invisible. Magnets can even be glued behind surfaces so they\u2019re not visible. They can be retrofitted into any furniture and all cover materials.
\nSee more at Foam-Anchor<\/p>\n
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The post The best new boat accessories of 2023 appeared first on Yachting World.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
We take a look at some of the best new boat accessories that will be making its way to a shop near you in 2023When it comes to picking the best boat accessories of any year, the Marine Equipment Trade … <\/p>\n