By the time you’re reading this, Rayglass and Yamaha will know if their Protector Projet collaboration has been successful on the international stage.
The Auckland boatbuilder teamed up with Yamaha to produce an innovative vessel that sees a PWC wedged into the hull of a 6m RIB (pictured above).
This new creation drew the attention of the international Marine Equipment Trade Show (METS), which nominated the pair for its inaugural ‘Boatbuilder and Equipment Manufacturer Collaborative Solution Award’, due to be announced on November 18.
METS judges were impressed with the way the two firms had effectively integrated a Rayglass 6m Protector hull with a high-performance PWC powerplant.
The resulting Projet, which is capable of speeds up to 43kts, proved an immediate success, being employed in a variety of roles around the world including sailing regattas, superyacht tenders and for recreational boating.
Rayglass CEO Dave Larsen said the Projet was created after an approach from organisers of the America’s Cup and Louis Vuitton regattas.
“They wanted to find a way to improve their on-water policing and spectator boat control,” he said.
“They needed a fast and highly manoeuvrable vessel that could quickly and safely navigate around the large race course area and between the hundreds of spectator craft, and safely come alongside other boats without damaging them.
“Because the jet-powered PWC comes complete with seating, steering, instrumentation and a fuel tank, there is no need to build these into the Protector hull. This reduces manufacturing costs and creates a wealth of useable cockpit space.”
Rayglass was also recognised at the recent Auckland Chamber of Commerce’s Westpac Business Awards, winning the ‘Excellence in Exporting Award’.
The award is based on Rayglass’s overall business performance, the number of countries to which it exports, the company’s sustainability and its relationships with end users in different markets.
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