RIB

DIESEL OUTBOARDS & A HOT TUB

 
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You may be scratching your heads here wondering if the title is a ploy to just get your attention or if this is actually true! Well believe it, it is! Last year this project was proposed to us, and when asked if we could put a hot tub in the boat we said “sure thing” and then with the opportunity to add the new diesel outboards on the transom we jumped with excitement. You don’t get many of opportunities like this!

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What did we think about the new OXE diesel outboards! In a nutshell we were impressed. They alter the expectation of what a diesel should look, sound, and perform like. If the cowling didn’t have the word diesel on the side, a novice boat owner might not even think to question what type of fuel to put in the tank.

Our 31’ GT Coupe would of paired better with the larger 300HP Diesel Outboards coming to market over the next year but due to the timeliness of the project the 200’s were the biggest we had to work with. The overall weight of the boat came to 10,200 lbs which is normal for our other GT Coupe builds, but those vessels normally also have a pair of 300HP Outboards at a minimum. The top end speed definitely suffered from the 200HP delta on this hull. We topped the boat out around 36 mph, which still allowed for a comfortable 28mph cruise speed. That cruise speed is comparable to other vessels we build in this category.

The vibration of the 4 cylinder diesel block is noticeable. To most at idle it will be apparent this is not a normal 4 cycle gas engine. Almost similar to that of the older two-stroke engines. But it quickly goes away with a little throttle. Once you reach 2,000 rpms the engine smooths out to a quiet purr. It rivals that of any other outboard on the market with little to no vibration at speed.

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Throttle response was also a two sided situation. If idling and looking for a quick punch of acceleration, you find a fairly long period of throttle lag (2-3 seconds), due to the turbo spooling up. But once it get spooled up, it is on point. Throttle response goes from melancholy to exhilarating. You can really feel the punch from the turbo at speeds over 2,500 rpms. Even with a big heavy boat like ours.

The overall integration of the engine rigging was quite similar to that of other outboard brands as well. The digital throttle allowed for us to mount it on the Shockwave Seats armrest. We do this so that it moves in suspension with the main operator. The engine display is shown here in the top right of the dash. It is a nice 7” display that gives all the engine data you will need.

We found the best fuel efficiency to be around 1.7 MPG on this boat. We obviously know the engines were a little under powered on this size vessel so they were not at the most fuel efficient RPM when we did reach our 28mph cruise speed. On a smaller 8000-9000lb vessel I think we would find a real fuel savings over other traditional gas outboards. But with all that said the recorded 1.7 mpg is still on par with the larger HP gas motors.

Conclusion

These OXE diesels are right there knocking on the door of the large gas outboard market. They have proven you can take a diesel engine, and apply the technology in an outboard application with success. For a lot of users this is what they have been waiting for. It now can eliminate the necessity of having gasoline on a larger yacht or fuel depot. Hats off to OXE for showing us that a diesel can be quiet, smooth, and responsive. It will be fun to see how the shoot out continues with the larger 300HP variants coming out from both OXE and competitor COX.

NOW THE FUN PART - THE HOT TUB

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With two diesel boilers circulating hot water through a heat exchanger we were able to create a replica model of your at home system. With temperature able to reach 100+ degrees you can relax all evening after a long day out on the water. And with enough space for 4 adults you can invites your friends over as well!

The primary principle of the system works due to the amount of flotation we generate with our collar systems. In fact even with the hot tub full you will see how flat and stable the boat looks in the water.

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This boat really was complete and ready for any adventure. We incorporated our drop bow door, in deck fish boxes, two top of the line suspension seats, seating in the main cabin for 7, a full electric flushing head, and of course the hot tub!

We will continue to offer this option for clients on a case by case basis. Overall this option will add an additional $19,000 to the bill. But it all depends on what else is incorporated into the build and if we need to account for any other unique options.


The GT Coupe is a must see!

GT COUPE

LAUNCH OF GT COUPE SERIES

 

May 2018, brought the completion of LIFE PROOF BOATS first ever GT COUPE.  A sleek stylish 31’ vessel designed to compete heavy in the pleasure craft market. With a 3/4 cabin style (optional canvas bulkhead) the cabin space of the boat is open and inviting. The interior space is smart in its ability to be reconfigured for entertaining under the shade of the roof or open to the outdoors on the rear deck of the boat. Its fundamental features allow this boat to fit a wide range of boating lifestyle choices.

There are 3 optional configurations of the space behind the driver seat which allow the design of the boat to fit a galley, a 3rd suspension seat, or 2 additional bench seats. With the 2 additional bench seats there is room for 8 in the main cabin, and an additional 4 outside on the rear bench seat.

The cuddy interior offers opposing bench’s giving 6’7” of lay down length and with the center drop in filler panels the cuddy space is transformed into a single large berthing space. When nature calls there is also a full electric macerating toilet located on the port side of the cuddy.

Other key features that make this boat stand out, is the optional drop bow door, in deck fish boxes, optional FLIR camera, and designed to incorporate the very best in suspension seating. And for the fisherman out there, two Burnewiin universal accessory mounts are included in the base boat. They work great for grilling out as well since they double as a BBQ mount.

The GT Coupe Model starts at $300,000 and with options like paint, synthetic teak decking, and joystick piloting pricing can reach over $400,000.

 

Vessel Details:

Model Name ------------------- GT COUPE

Length --------------------------- 31’

Beam ---------------------------- 10’

Weight -------------------------- 10,500 lbs

Speed --------------------------- 55+ MPH with twin 350HP Outboards

HP Rating ---------------------- 1,250 HP (twin or triple configuration available)

Fuel Tank ---------------------- 200 Gallons

Water Tank ------------------- 40 Gallons

Black Water ------------------ 40 Gallons

Diesel for Heat -------------- 3 Gallons

 

 

Design Features of Note:

Self-Bailing Decks (even while static)

Optional Diesel Heat

Optional AC (with reduced holding tanks)

Galley Arrangement (sink, fridge, Microwave)

Windlass

Drop Bow Door

Electric Toilet

Large Holding Tanks

Gyro Stabilized Trim Assist System

 

CONTACTS FOR MORE INFORMATION

 

Micah Bowers – Sales

(360) 674 -7019 ext. 200

Micah@InventechMarine.com

 

Jenson Charnell – Sales

(360) 674 -7019 ext. 201

Jenson@InventechMarine.com

31FT GT Coupe to join new models for 2018

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Already announcing a handful of new models for 2018, Life Proof Boats is pleased to announce another model has finished the design phase is green lighted to start production first quarter of 2018. This project code named the "GT Coupe" is targeting a market of clients who love the feeling of a open cabin boat (no rear bulkhead) but have the option of snapping in a canvas enclosure to create a closed cabin compartment for those raining or cold days on the water. Lounging and entertaining guests is also a major focal point for this design driving a flush cabin deck and lots of seating options. This first production model will feature three suspension seats but available options for cabin layouts will offer an additional bench seat in lieu of the rear suspension seat. 

Interacting with the water is our class leading 22 degree, fine entry 31FT hull. Outfitted with twin 350HP outboards this boat will see speeds on the boarder line of 60mph. With Suzuki's new dual prop 350HP outboards and gear ratio you should easily be able to push this boat beyond the 60mph mark. 

Available with our signature drop bow door, and fold out ladder. This is sure a boat that will favor well with any boater looking to do some exploring. 

The list of amenities available is more than the fair share for the average boater. A flushing head, is standard on all models and the cuddy cabin berth is large enough to easily accommodate two adults overnight in comfort. 

 

 


Come find us at the 2018 Seattle Boat Show to find out more details. 

22FT RIB Finishes Design Phase & Heading to Production

We are proud to announce a new 22FT RIB design has been completed and the plate has been ordered to start construction. This design incorporated some of our new familiar design ques as well as a few new innovate approaches to the classic RIB center console configuration. 

As one of the fundamental boat styles used but both government agencies and recreational uses from the Pacific to Atlantic coasts we decided it was time for us to put our unique flair on it. 

With a 30" wide center console and seating on both the front and rear of the boat. You can easily accommodate any mission. The main bench seat at the helm can also be swapped with a suspension style, or jockey style bench seat. 

Propulsion packages can range from a single 115HP up to a 250HP outboard.

For pricing details please contact our sales team and so we can tailor the package better for your needs. 

 

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21FT Hard Top Delivered

21FT Hard Top

Life Proof Boats is proud to announce the completion and delivery of a new 21FT Hard Top boat to our growing fleet of models. 

The design concept for this boat came from the love for a hardtop that is simple and can be offered at more of a price point to the market. We also love having a glass windscreen for the fact that you can then have a wiper blade. The glass was direct glazed and looks fantastic. There are lots of options for seating in the boat depending on the activity and guest count. With seating for 6 in the front or 6 in the boat, this boat offered lots of versatility. The driver and navigator seats sit behind a 50" wide console and are mounted on 4" suspension pedestal style seat posts offered by Taco Marine. They also have 6" of slide fore and aft with a 180 degree swivel option. 

For those cooler winter months you can option a full canvas enclosure that will keep you out of the weather, and if desired we can also install a diesel heater in the console. 

The rear bench converts to a sun pad within seconds to add another dimension to the boat for those wanting to lounge in the sun. 

Rear seat in the up position.

Rear seat in the up position.

Rear seat converted to sun pad. 

Rear seat converted to sun pad. 

Options and Performance

With a large section of power options you can use this platform in almost any situation. this first model was outfitted with a single 150HP Honda outboard, but could handle up to a 300HP Outboard. Speeds with the 150HP power plant topped out at 38 mph no matter if the boat had 4 adults on board and a full tank or just 1 person. Cruise speed is comfortable around 26-28 mph and at these speeds you will only be burning 6-6.5 gallons/hr. 

The deadrise of the hull is our desired 22 degree deep vee so it cuts through the water with ease. This hull also includes our delta shoe and performance fins, so it can turn on a dime. 

Overall weight of the boat came in around 4300 lbs as configured. The majority of the weight is decks down, keeping the vertical center of gravity very low, adding stability and ride quality. The hull plate on this boat will be offered as either .25" or .190" depending on the HP and water line length. 

Decks are welded down and two 4" rear and two  3" FWD deck scupper help to evacuate any water that finds its way inside the boat. 

Wrap Up

For those looking for a built tough little T-TOP that was very well thought out for life on the water this boat delivers. It shares all the great features we love with our bigger boats and puts them into an affordable, highly versatile platform that can sit almost any lifestyle. 

With a single 150HP Outboard Prices start at $89,000.00


For more information 

Email: Info@InventechMarine.com
Phone: (360) 674-7019

Diesel Center Console Launched

We are proud to announce the launching of our new diesel inboard center console line. With the heart of the platform in the form of a 6.6L Duramax Diesel putting out 500HP, and delivering the power through a Hamilton waterjet. At just under 6,300 lbs wet, the incredible power to weight ratio allows the boat to achieve sprint speeds in excess of 50 MPH. 

This is one of the first of many following high profile aluminum RIB's that will change the way the marine industry looks at RIB's. That is because it incorporates our new hybrid collar technology. With 20% air and 80% foam in the collar, your senses will tell you this is a typical inflatable. But the zipper running the whole length of the collar is a giveaway there is more to this boat. The zipper system gives the user ultimate control over servicing the collar. It is a game changer for the amount of control it gives the user in the event the separate, internal bladder is compromised. Because the other collar materials only protect the internal bladder from abrasion and UV rays, the lifespan of the collar itself is increased far beyond a conventional RIB. 

Also incorporated into the platform are the latest military grade suspension seats from Shockwave. The S3 mid back drop down seats incorporate 8" of suspension via Fox Float H2O shocks. And with the optional seat height adjustment package and drop down bolster seat, they allow the user to have the ultimate comfort in either a seated or standing position. 

While the displacement might be identical to your on road GMC pickup this engine has been massaged to give more power and handle the harsh marine environment. Coupled to a ZF transmission with optional push-button transmission selection and a drive line from Portland Drives lines, this power plant is incredibly quite and responsive. With one of the most remarkable aspects of the engine being its fuel economy, cruise on the platform seams to be around 32 mph while burning approx. 13 gallons/hr. 

 

 

Performance Diesel VGT-500

Performance Diesel VGT-500

Other fun features of the boat include the twin 7,000 lumen LED flood lights from PTLX, the electronically actuated windscreen, 5 ton flush mounted pick points, and Aquatrac PVC laminated foam decking. 

Boat Characteristics

Speed: .............................................  50MPH W/ 500HP 6.6L Duramax 

Hull Lengths Available: ................  28' 

Beam with Collar: .........................  10'-6" Inflated, 10' Road Width

Deadrise at Transom: ...................  22 Degrees

Deadrise at Entry: .........................  48 Degrees

All Aluminum Construction: .......  Alloy 5086 H116

Fuel Capacity: ................................  85 Gallons

 

See More at 

Living Up to The Name of Life Proof Boats

100% Foam Collar - It can handle whatever you come across. 

100% Foam Collar - It can handle whatever you come across. 

A lot of people see our boats and think that the collar around the boat is filled with air. It is not their fault, because most manufactures that put collars on their boats use air. Under low pressure, the air is put into bladders which are usually glued and sometimes mechanically fastened to the hull. Because of their inherent loss of flotation and stability if the collar were cut or ruptured they are required by the USCG to be segmented into multiple chambers so that if one fails, the boat won’t lose too much buoyancy. The concept works and has been a staple for many years in certain applications. 

But the USCG for the past 15 years has found a better technology, Foam Collars. They have found that they are more durable, remove the concern of puncturing or losing air, add more stability and are easier to repair or service. 

Life Proof Boats was founded under the principle of giving the recreational industry the safest platform we can. That is why we are a little obsessed with Foam. Just to be clear this is not the foam you find protecting your new TV when you pull it out of the box, or the two part mixed foams that other manufactures inject below their decks. Those foams hold water. Even the foams you have been told are closed cell and are injected under the decks of other builders will hold water over time. They are only closed cell at first formation when rigid. Over time as the boat stresses and shutters with stress as it is used, the foam cells crack and open allowing water to enter them. They also are not as resilient to fossil fuels or nitro methane products as the foams we use. We use closed cell polyethylene foam. 

FAST

Here at IMS, we are working on new collar technologies that will advance the industry. We have established a brand around this technology called FAST. It stands for Foam Air Stabilized Technologies. Our new foam, air, or foam/air hybrid collar systems are revolutionizing the industry. Mated with our patented collar attachment and installation systems, installation, removal, or repair of the collar will be smooth and easy. FAST has the ability to provide 100% foam, 100% air, or foam/air hybrid systems with any ratio of foam or air depending on your application. Our system also allows you to change the ratio of air to foam in the future by simply changing out the air bladder.
 

Check out the video.