VOLU

ME 49 - 2012

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

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ACY Stirs Up Excitement with Chili Cook-OffACY’s first annual Employee Chili Cook-Off was a huge success with 30 entrants vying for over $5,000 in cash and prizes, plus bragging rights for whipping up the tastiest chili. The competition was fierce with entries covering a full gamut of recipes from “Alan’s Kitchen Sink” to “Luckyman’s ‘Mess Hall Style’ Army Chili.” Every contestant received a prize for their effort, with top honors going to Dave Benke from IMS American for his mouth-watering Southwestern Smoked Chili. Placing second through fourth respectively were John Adams, John Resnik and George Marinenko. ACY sends a big shout out to everyone who participated and shared their coveted creations. Hundreds of door prizes were distributed to employees from all the American Family companies. ACY sends a huge thank you to the following event sponsors for their generous prize donations: AudioAmerica, D.J. Systems, Donovan Enterprises, Explorer Satellite Communications, Furuno,

Gold Coast Marine Distributor, Land ‘N’ Sea, Lewis Marine Supply, KEP Marine, Merritt Marine Supply, Port Supply, RS Detailing, S.E. Electronics Source, Seawide Distribution, Sheridan Cable Corporation and the Whistle Stop Restaurant. A very special thanks goes out to event organizer Debbi Walsh and chili cook-off committee members Stephanie Deaton, Denise Decker, Lisa Hailand, Connie Knoblauch, Dominick LaCombe, Jr., Jennifer LaCombe and Chris Shultz.

ACY carpenter Frank Jones takes his chili seriously!

Professional chefs (L-R) Eric Olsen of Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q fame, Michelle Jones of Michelina’s Restaurant and retired chef John Vancora lent their expertise as chili cook-off judges.

Dave Benke of IMS American wowed the judges with his Southwestern Smoked Chile recipe, taking home first place and a Samsung 32” LCD TV.

Meet AMG CreativeAmerican Custom Yachts continues to diversify its operations with the expansion of its marketing division, AMG Creative. Originally conceived as an in-house marketing department to serve the needs of American Custom Yachts and its affiliated companies, AMG Creative has recently expanded its operations to serve the marketing needs of outside clients as well. Services include the creation of multi-media advertising and public relations campaigns, graphic design, website development, interactive marketing, photography and video production.

Leading the AMG team is Creative Director Chris Shultz and Art Director Jennifer LaCombe.

Shultz holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising from the University of Florida and is the former owner of Marketing Concepts, a Stuart-based advertising and public relations firm established in 1994. He has over 25 years of agency and media experience with an extensive background in print and broadcast production, media planning, public relations, copywriting and photography. A graduate of Auburn University, LaCombe brings extensive experience in copy editing and graphic and web design as the former editor and designer of The Billfish Foundation’s acclaimed Billfish magazine distributed worldwide. For more information, visit www.creativeamg.com or call 772-221-9100. Surf AMG’s website – www.creativeamg.com

Jennifer LaCombeChris Shultz

Vessel SpotlightA New Look for JICHI

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KEP Introduces Compact Barracuda ComputersProduct Profile

After

Before

The American Family of Companies teamed up to create an exciting new look for the 68’ Paul Mann JICHI, complementing the vessel’s distinctive traditional profile. Upon completion of a full repaint and new transom lettering, the vessel was fitted with a custom full tower by Bausch-American Towers incorporating the existing hard top. American Canvas & Interiors fabricated custom tower seat cushions and a control box cover. From there, IMS American took the helm with the installation of an extensive Raymarine navigation package that includes two 14” multifunction GPS chartplotter displays, a digital sounder and a Sirius weather receiver. A 9” repeater display

was installed in the tower box. Satellite communications and entertainment are provided by a KVH TracPhone V3 with a rack-mounted antenna control unit and modem and a KVH TracVision HD7 with TriAmericas DIRECTV system. VHF radio service is provided by twin rear-mounted Icom M504 VHF radios and a set of four Comrod 16’ Rupp-ready VHF antennas. A new Clarion bridge stereo system with a watertight CD/tuner/multimedia interface and JL Audio M650 6.5” speakers was also installed. The audio-video upgrades continued in the sleeping quarters with the installation of a Samsung 46” 1080p LED HDTV and a Universal Remote controlled Sony Bravia theater system in the master stateroom, as well as a Sony Bravia 26” 720p LCD HDTV with

Samsung Blu-ray Disc player fitted in a custom cabinet box in the V-berth.

The final result is a stunning transformation that truly accents the vessel’s beauty and craftsmanship.

KEP Marine recently introduced its new line of powerful Barracuda mini-rack computers. Providing high-performance computing in a small package, the Barracuda series offers the power of a full-size computer in a rugged chassis that is less than 3.5” tall. Computers are designed to fit in KEP’s space-saving 12” rack, offering easy stowage on any vessel where space is limited.

Engineered for low power consumption and secured thermal management, the KEP Marine Barracuda line offers multiple configurations and power options to serve any need, including navigation, communication, camera and security, vessel monitoring, PC and media storage and system backup. Featuring an upgradeable AMD Athlon II Dual Core Central Processing Unit (CPU), KEP Barracuda computers deliver high-quality video processing for complex charting and feature VGA, DVI and HDMI outputs for

connection to a wide variety of displays. Additional features include 6-channel HD audio, 1,000/100/10 Gigabit LAN and 7 USB inputs (1 front and 6 back). Barracuda computers can run

Windows 7, Windows XP and Linux OS, and they are compatible with multiple switching devices for easy source selection, as well as RS-232 remote control systems.

KEP Barracuda computers can be configured to meet any computing requirement. The 100 series computers feature 2 or 4 GB of RAM, a 64 GB solid-state storage drive (SSD) and 500 GB hard drive options, and they can be upgraded to a quad core CPU. The Barracuda 200 series models feature a slot-loading CD-RW/DVD drive, 4 GB of RAM and a 64 GB SSD for optimum system performance, and they are available with 500 GB or 1 TB hard drive storage options. Building on the same features as the Barracuda 200, the Barracuda 300 series consists of four models with a wide selection of drive capabilities and types, featuring 4 GB of RAM, up to two 64 GB SSDs and, for maximum storage, a choice of two high-capacity 2 TB hard drives. For convenience and security, KEP Marine offers a choice of either built-in or removable hard drives. When it comes to marine computers, KEP is the only name to remember. For additional information, visit www.kepmarine.com or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

A cutting-edge electronics installation by IMS American graces the helm of the 71’ Jim Smith tournament boat FISH ON, winner of the 2011 Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish Championship. The installation features three 17” KEP Sunlight LCD monitors and a Furuno NavNet 3D black box package that includes a MFDBB chartplotter (with redundant system in tower), a Sirius Marine Weather receiver and antenna, an external echosounder and a Class B AIS transponder. Additional Furuno components include a NavNet 3D UHD digital radar and dual frequency sonar. The navigation installation also features a Simrad autopilot and a Garmin 15” color GPS chartplotter. Communications are provided by a KVH TracPhone V7 with antenna control unit and modem and dual Icom VHF LCD radios. Satellite TV is provided by a KVH TracVision HD7 system with Ku/Ka-band for DIRECTV. Completing the installation is a KEPcam sportfish camera system and a Carlisle & Finch NightFINDER 200 searchlight and thermal camera that combines the power of a 15 million-candlepower xenon spotlight with the image clarity of a 320 by 240 pixel thermal imaging camera.

FISH ON with IMS

GEORGIA GIRL Has Electronics on Her Mind

The IMS Beaufort team outfitted GEORGIA GIRL with a state-of-the-art electronics package truly befitting this beautiful 81’ custom sportfish created by Paul Mann. The installation features four 19” KEP glass bridge monitors housed in a custom pop-up helm display, along with an extensive Furuno package that includes two NavNet MFDBB black boxes with DFF1 and DFF3 sounders, an RD30 digital depth display, a DRS25A 25 kW radar, a DRS6A 6 kW radar, a SC50 satellite compass, a PB150 weather station and an FA150 AIS transponder. Satellite communications and onboard entertainment are provided by a KVH TracPhone FB250 satellite phone, a Wave WiFi system and a KVH TracVision HD7 high-definition satellite TV. A pair of Icom M604 VHF radios completes the package.

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

IMS NEWSMarine Electronics

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Vessel Spotlight

Christened nearly 12 years ago in the summer of 2000, the ACY65 BLUEWATER CAT returned to ACY for a full repower and refit under the supervision of long-time captain Duane Hoodless. The new power package includes a pair of CAT C32 Acert engines provided by Louisiana

Machinery, new transmissions from ZF Marine and an upgraded 14” exhaust system fabricated by Marine Exhaust Systems. New fuel tanks were also installed, along with new shafts and couplings.

Interior modifications included the complete refinishing of all teak veneer and the addition of handcrafted Carpathian Elm burl inlays. Cabinets were modified in the galley to fit a new Gaggenau oven and in the salon and master stateroom to accommodate new Samsung LED TVs installed by IMS American. IMS also upgraded the audio-video system with the addition of a

Denon AVR-3311C receiver, a Samsung Blu-ray player, an iPod docking station and a KVH TracVision receiver. IMS and ACY teamed up to install new overhead speaker boxes and speakers throughout the vessel.

Exterior upgrades included the installation of a new teak cockpit and covering boards, a modified teak mezzanine, a new stainless steel refrigerated fish box and a full topside paint job. The end result is an ACY showpiece that looks and performs like the day it was launched. This cat may still have nine lives left!

ACY Adds Life to BLUEWATER CAT

Following the installation of a custom BAT tower and full IMS electronics package in 2009, the 83’ custom sportfisherman RUMBERA recently returned to ACY for the installation of a new teak cockpit and lanai

deck, along with new mezzanine seat covers by American Canvas & Interiors. Bausch-American Towers also modified the custom mezzanine rod holders and upgraded the outriggers and tower lighting. A variety of minor repairs and routine maintenance services were also performed, including repainting the blue mask and swim platform, refinishing the covering boards, replacing the cockpit covering track and fly bridge window caulking, repairing the mechanical salon table and refitting the salon doors with new motors. The hull also received a complete wax and buff. A little TLC from the ACY crew and RUMBERA is looking like new!

RUMBERA Rejuvenated!

Experience a whole new world of satellite TV at sea with KVH’s revolutionary 24” TracVision® HD7 antenna. A breakthrough in design, the HD7 brings high-definition programming from DIRECTV to your boat or yacht the same way you enjoy it at home. This rugged antenna offers the best tracking ever from KVH, simultaneously following DIRECTV’s Ka- and Ku-band satellite signals, while enabling the use of Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) to record programming.

Using KVH’s exclusive Tri-rod Antenna Design (TriAD™) technology, the TracVision® HD7 antenna can receive broadcasts from three DIRECTV satellites at once, resulting in outstanding reception even as you cruise offshore. And when you’re underway, the multi-axis dynamic tracking keeps you locked on even in the roughest seas.

Unlike competing systems, the TracVision® HD7 allows every TV on board to instantly display programming from any channel on any of the three satellites with no waiting for signal switching. Plus, receivers won’t lock up, reboot or perform lengthy satellite searches unexpectedly due to expired program guides or receivers looking for the wrong satellite. The advanced technology behind the TracVision® HD7 allows you to receive DIRECTV’s program data constantly by seeing all three satellites at once. This technology makes

it possible for you and your guests to watch live, high-definition programming while enjoying full use of your DVR. Setup and maintenance are a snap with KVH’s new IP-enabled antenna control unit and exclusive, free TracVision® HD7 iPhone app.

For boaters who travel to ports of call throughout the Americas, the HD7’s optional Tri-Americas™ LNB receiver makes switching between DIRECTV HD and DIRECTV Latin America as easy as flipping a switch, eliminating the need to change any antenna hardware. For additional information about the KVH TracVision® HD7, visit www.kvh.com/HD7 or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

KVH – Experience a New World of Satellite TV

If you’re looking for complete situational awareness on the water, then look no further than Furuno. The award-winning Furuno NavNet 3D navigation suite combines a full array of navigation components and a powerful processor in 8.4”, 12.1” or Black Box Multi Function Display (MFDBB) units. This truly modular interface makes it simple to customize and expand your navigation package by adding any number of components, such as an Ultra High Definition (UHD) digital radar sensor, Furuno Digital Filter (FDF) fish finder, Sirius satellite weather receiver, GPS/WAAS receiver, autopilot, AIS receiver, digital instrumentation, IP cameras and more.

Offering superior technology, NavNet 3D’s digital display imagery is second to none. Imagine a chartplotter with no redraw time. Then, imagine being able to choose from preloaded raster, vector and official NOAA bathymetric charts or Jeppesen C-Map charts with satellite photography for the entire U.S. coastline. And finally, imagine a chartplotter that can display any chart format in 2D or 3D anytime, on the fly. Furuno offers it all with NavNet 3D’s powerful graphic engine and advanced TimeZero™ technology, allowing for instant and seamless chart

redrawing and display.

Furuno NavNet 3D brings all the pieces you’ll ever need together in a practical building block system that allows you to create an array that truly meets your needs. If you’re just looking for

a GPS and chartplotter, for example, a basic multi function display and GPS receiver package will work perfectly. However, if you want satellite weather to overlay your

chart, simply add on a Sirius Marine Weather receiver and you’re in business. With NavNet 3D, you can add components seamlessly at any time, and your options are almost limitless. For a look at Furuno’s complete product line, visit www.furunousa.com or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

Furuno Redefines Navigation with NavNet 3D

Product Profile

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This 31’ Contender sports an elaborate T-top package featuring a molded hard top with a custom radar pod, tackle center, radio box and a set of Rupp Top Gun outriggers.

A deluxe BAT T-top with Sunbrella fabric cover was installed on this 23’ Parker for the Parker factory.

The BAT NC crew outfitted the 58’ Ritchie Howell custom sportfisherman ABSOLUT JOY with an extensive full-tower package featuring a drop-down radio box, recessed teaser reels, spreader lights and RUPP outriggers.

Bausch-American Towers fabricated an eye-catching full tower on this 38’ Contender, featuring an impressive 21 rod holders.

BAT outfitted this 42’ Tiara sportfisherman with a full tower and hard top package featuring custom-molded handrails and LED spreader lights.

Rampage Sport Fishing Yachts commissioned BAT to create a custom half tower for their new 41’ express model featuring a custom-molded hard top and extra inside bracing. The tower is designed for later expansion to a full tower.

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

BAT NEWSCustom Towers, Hard Tops and Accessories

Florida Highlights

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North Carolina Highlights

Offering advanced AIS technology and compatibility with Icom’s industry-leading VHF radios, the Icom MA-500TR transponder is the ideal solution for recreational vessels, workboats and other non-SOLAS vessels where ship to ship communication is vital. The MA-500TR automatically exchanges real-time boat information with other AIS-equipped vessels and base stations, even reaching AIS-equipped vessels not seen on radar.

Featuring a full dot matrix display with adjustable backlit supporting plotter, target list, danger list and detail screens, the MA-500TR transponder simultaneously receives dual AIS channels and relays information such as MMSI code, vessel name and more. Silent mode turns off the transmission of information while still allowing data to be received from other AIS-equipped vessels.

Additional features include collision-risk management in CPA and TCPA range, 100-waypoint memory and a 3-line NMEA input. The IPX7-rated MA-500TR comes with a GPS receiver and can make individual DSC calls when connected to compatible Icom M412, M504A or M604A VHF radios. All three radios are IPX7 rated and comply with FCC Class D DSC regulations.

Providing excellent audio output, superb receiver sensitivity and large, backlit LCD display screens, Icom radios incorporate a number of helpful tools into their design, including a position request/report function to exchange position data between ships, polling to verify

specific ships within communications range, dual/tri-watch technology, scanning, weather channels and an alert mode. The M412 is compact, submersible and uses Icom’s AquaQuake technology to systematically remove

water from the speaker grill. The M504A is simple to use and submersible up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The M604A is also submersible with a keypad for quick DSC operation and a convenient microphone connection for front and rear panels. Compatible with Icom’s remote-controlled COMMANDMICIII microphone, the M504 and M604 both feature a hailer with built-in amplifier, along with an RX speaker and foghorn capability. For information on Icom’s complete line of products, go to www.icomamerica.com/marine or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

You’re Never Alone at Sea with Icom

Defy the Dark with Carlisle & Finch

Product Profile

M504A VHF radio and MA-500TR transponder

Icom M412 VHF radio

NightFINDER 200

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Founded in 1894, Carlisle & Finch Co. invented the first carbon arc searchlight in North America and provided this technology to the paddlewheel boats on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Since then, Carlisle & Finch has pioneered every major searchlight innovation over the last century. In the 1960s, Carlisle & Finch was the first to utilize xenon arc technology to create the most powerful, high-intensity marine searchlights to date. Carlisle & Finch products remain the standard for the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard, and they are in use worldwide on commercial marine vessels and in a multitude of military and security applications. You’ll also find Carlisle & Finch spotlights on many of the finest recreational vessels on the water, including American Custom Yachts, Burger, Christensen, Jim Smith, Palmer Johnson, Trinity and Westport.

The culmination of Carlisle & Finch’s century-old history as the preeminent manufacturer of the most powerful marine searchlights on the planet is the new NightFINDER 200 – a super powerful, multi-function searchlight that crosses all markets. The NightFINDER 200 boasts a sleek new design with a robust housing that defies the elements. Add a Flir thermal imaging/low light camera and you

truly have the finest eyes on the water. The NightFINDER’s new Smart View technology incorporates a 15 million-candlepower spotlight with a Flir 320 by 240 pixel thermal imaging camera to create a combination high intensity searchlight/camera mounted on a single, 360-degree pan/tilt axis. Both the spotlight and the camera are IP-addressable and can be operated remotely from anywhere in the world via the Internet.

So, if you’re looking for a high-power searchlight that cuts through the darkness and provides crisp, clear camera images day

or night, look no further than Carlisle & Finch. For more information, visit www.carlislefinch.com or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

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Work in ProgressA Sampling of

Projects Currently Underway

SARAH BETH, a one-of-a-kind 108’ Burger aluminum sportfisherman, came to ACY for a complete ECO Strip and new bottom paint using a three-step system developed by Sea Hawk specifically for metal hulls. Additional work included repairing the exhaust pipes, re-bedding the sheer water and anchor pockets, re-fairing the bow and blending paint to match.

The 60’ Hatteras MANGO MOON recently departed ACY sporting a new Awlcraft 2000 Matterhorn White paint job. Additional work included running gear maintenance, a bottom job, hatch repairs and stainless steel polishing.

The world-renowned ACY70 QUE MAS took a well deserved break in the billfish action for a full hull repaint, including a three-color boot stripe, cockpit varnish and a bottom job using Sea Hawk Tropikote Biocide Plus.

ACY performed a number of noteworthy upgrades on VIVACE, a unique 45’ Linssen motoryacht built in the Netherlands. Work included the installation of a new teak and holly cockpit sole, along with new interior headliners by ACI and gas shock replacement on all hatches. Additional services included the installation of an Arid eco-friendly dry bilge discharge system, a complete Awlgrip hull paint and new gold leaf lettering.

ACY, BAT and ACI joined forces to complete an extreme makeover on the 56’ Viking SUMMIT. Following a new teak mezzanine, BAT worked their magic to create a custom full tower integrating the existing hard top and electronics. ACI then added the final touches with the installation of full enclosure and custom tower seat cushions.

ACY performed significant mechanical and interior upgrades on the 72’ Donzi GUARIMBA. Work included the fabrication of new underwater exhausts by Marine Exhaust Systems, including new 6” exhaust bypasses. ACY also replaced all fuel lines, fabricated and installed a new generator mounting base, upgraded the engine room lighting and crafted new salon entertainment center doors.

Over 20 years of research and development in the pursuit of the ultimate acrylic enclosure has led industry innovator 4U2SEA to introduce three new acrylic products that are making big waves on the water.

Designed for both clarity and durability, clear2sea is an amazing new clear acrylic product tested to be ten times more resistant to breakage than conventional acrylic while retaining outstanding scratch resistance. If scratches do appear, they are easily buffed out.

A step above, clear2seaUV incorporates all the strength and scratch resistance of clear2sea with the added benefit of blocking 98% of all ultraviolet (UV) light. Providing the same distortion-free clarity as the original formula, clear2seaUV incorporates technology to protect your crew and bridge from the damaging effects of the sun. Now you can increase your boat’s UV protection factor with one simple solution – clear2seaUV.

The ultimate solution for withstanding the harsh effects of the sun is the new cool2sea acrylic. Utilizing a unique

proprietary formula, cool2sea not only blocks 98% of UV light, but also diffuses 23% of the heat transmitted by the sun while offering superior clarity, strength and scratch resistance. While most enclosed bridges and aft decks are able to maintain only a mediocre level of air conditioning when fully enclosed, thanks to the heat-blocking capabilities of cool2sea, new levels of coolness and comfort can be attained. Ideal for tropical climates, cool2sea will keep you cooler and on the water longer.

No matter what your vessel type, usage or climate, your boat and crew will benefit from the sun and heat blocking benefits of a clear2sea or cool2sea enclosure – the next generation in marine enclosures. For additional information, visit www.4u2sea.com or contact American Canvas & Interiors at 772-221-9100.

The Next Generation of Marine Enclosures

Product Profile

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It was 38 years ago when the 12-meter class sailing vessel COURAGEOUS, painted with Awlgrip, won the coveted America’s Cup race. That event brought instant recognition to Awlgrip as a premium marine topcoat. The Awlgrip brand has since expanded to become synonymous with quality yacht finishes worldwide. The Awlgrip line incorporates complete paint systems and multiple product choices to meet the highest standards of the yachting industry. Thanks to innovative formulas, leading-edge technology and ongoing product development, Awlgrip products are considered to be the most advanced marine finishes on the market today.

The latest addition to the Awlgrip family is the new Awlcraft SE ‘Special Effects’ topcoat. Offering a luster and brilliance unmatched by any other finish,

Awlcraft SE encompasses metallic, pearlescent and effect pigments to create a luminous, sophisticated yacht finish that is dazzling and fast drying with excellent opacity.

Awlcraft SE is designed to work as a multi-layer system. Once the color and effect has been applied, a clear, high-gloss finish is added providing extra sheen and protection. This combination creates a sparkling high-performance, high-gloss topcoat that is truly unique in the yachting industry. The Awlcraft SE system has been rigorously tested to stand up to the harshest marine environments and can be applied over any Awlgrip product, whether primer or topcoat. As with all its topcoats, Awlcraft SE is offered in hundreds of shades and an unlimited array of custom colors.

To receive your own Awlcraft SE color card, contact Awlgrip at 888-355-3090, or e-mail beth.behrhorst@akzonobel.com. To view the complete line of Awlgrip products, go to www.awlgrip.com. For

additional information, contact ACY at 772-221-9100.

Awlcraft SE Topcoat – a Simply Dazzling Finish!

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After ECO-Stripping its bottom to the bare aluminum, a coat of Sea Hawk S-76 anti-corrosive primer was applied to the bottom of the 108’ Burger sportfisherman SARAH BETH. This application was followed by three coats of Tuff Stuff high-build epoxy primer and two final coats of Biocop TF antifouling paint.

When it comes to protecting your investment’s bottom line, Sea Hawk is here to help. For large, metal-hull vessels, Sea Hawk recommends a three-stage system for maximum protection, starting with Sea Hawk S-76 Primer – a strontium chromate primer that exhibits excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance when applied to bare metals. This should be followed by three to four coats of Sea Hawk Tuff Stuff marine primer – an extremely high-build, two-part epoxy primer that dries fast, creating a solid barrier coat. The final stage is an application of Sea Hawk Biocop TF antifouling paint. A top performer among antifouling paints, Biocop TF was developed as an alternative to tin-based antifouling paints to protect against the harshest marine environments. For information on all Sea Hawk products, go to www.seahawkpaints.com or contact ACY at 772-221-9100.

Product Profile

Over twenty years of experience as a crew member on sportfishing yachts has given photographer Scott Kerrigan unparalleled access to some of the world’s finest fishing spots, along with a keen eye for getting the right shot. Early on in his fishing career, Scott discovered a passion for photography, documenting the natural beauty of the places and wildlife he encountered. Eventually, he transformed this passion into a business. Today, Kerrigan is the owner of Aqua Paparazzi, a full-service marine stock photo agency specializing in big game sportfishing and exotic travel images from around the globe.

In addition to providing exciting visual images for both fine art reproduction and commercial use, Kerrigan now offers magnificent, one-of-a-kind coffee table books capturing sportfishing adventures on beautifully printed pages. To preserve the memories from your next sportfishing trip, call Scott at 954-553-5445 or visit www.aquapaparazzi.com.

Preserving Those Blue Water MemoriesProtect Your Investment

American Canvas & Interiors designed and fabricated these bold and exciting booths and window treatments for Blondies, a fun family restaurant located in Tequesta.

The 66’ Spencer BEAR TRAP was outfitted by ACI with a full bridge enclosure using clear2seaUV acrylic curtains.

ACI fabricated a custom cockpit cover with sewn-in swim platform door, along with new bow and deck chair cushions and covers for the 110’ Choey Lee M/Y BLUEWATER CAT.

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

ACI NEWSExperts in Canvas and Upholstery

Led by angler Wally Whitley and Captain Travis Butters, Team QUE MAS furthered their legacy in Bermuda this summer, taking top honors in the 3rd Annual Bermuda Billfish Release Cup. The ACY70 jumped ahead of the pack on day one with Whitley releasing an estimated 600-pound blue marlin at 2:15 p.m. and another blue at 2:35 p.m. to take the lead and the daily release jackpot. On day two, QUE MAS put it over the top with angler/mate Donny Lange releasing a white marlin at 3:02 p.m., just missing the daily release jackpot on time. The team’s efforts earned QUE MAS the win and the overall release jackpot. More importantly, the victory earned QUE MAS the distinction of being the only boat to ever win all four major Bermuda tournaments, as well as the Bermuda Triple Crown Championship. This is no small accomplishment, considering the amazing talent they have fished against over the past eight years.

The American Family sends a big shout-out to Team QUE MAS. You have made us extremely proud once again.

The ACY fishing team had another great summer season in St. Thomas, experiencing outstanding fishing and placing third in the 39th Annual USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament (aka “The Boy Scout Tournament”), with Damon Chouest also taking honors for top angler. Competing against the world’s finest fishing teams, CHACH, captained by Dave Dalfo, made a strong showing out of the gate, landing at the top of the leader board after the first day of fishing. The action that day was heart-pounding. Chouest caught CHACH’s first blue marlin around 9:30 a.m. The estimated 350-pounder came up jumping after hitting a pitch bait and was released after a 10-minute fight. Fellow angler, Dominick LaCombe released

CHACH’s second blue, an estimated 450-pounder that put up a grueling 40-minute battle. Barely 20 minutes later, another blue came up on the flat line. LaCombe released this smaller blue in a little over ten minutes. Just prior to LaCombe’s second release, REEL TIGHT let go its third blue for the day, launching them into the lead. Then, shortly after 4:00 p.m., Chouest hooked his second blue marlin off the left bridge teaser and CHACH regained the lead with four fish.

Chouest’s two dramatic releases sustained him through the tournament to earn the top angler spot for the event. Michael McCarthy, aboard the ACY65 BLACK GOLD, placed a very respectable 10th place in the angler division. Congratulations to Damon, Mike and all who fished the tournament.

ACY Vessels in the NewsCHACH Rocks St. Thomas

QUE MAS Does it Again in Bermuda

Team QUE MAS is all smiles after their Bermuda victory: (L-R) Travis Butters, Donny Lange, Wally Whitley, Robert Helms and Bull Tulson.

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Photographer Scott Kerrigan created this incredible sequence of an Atlantic blue marlin in mid-leap hooked up to the CHACH. This extraordinary photo graces a two-page spread in the December/January issue of Marlin magazine.

Photo by Scott Kerrigan

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDWEST PALM BCH, FL

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

COMING IN OUR NEXT ISSUE ACY90 SPLASHES!

Design & Production by AMG Creative

Managing Editor .....................................................Chris ShultzArt & Editorial Director ............................ Jennifer LaCombeEditorial Support .............................................Monica FalgoutPhotography ............................................................Chris Shultz

This feature answers commonly asked questions posed to ACY regarding boat construction, maintenance and repair. Please fax your question to (772) 288-4993, or e-mail it to info@acyinc.com, in care of 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 recently purchased a 10-year-old long-range expedition trawler. I had new engines installed, along with new fuel and air-conditioning systems. Now it is time to upgrade my watermakers. I have a 400-gallon tank capacity and plan to do some extensive traveling and a lot of anchoring out. Is there a specific water making system you would recommend to allow me to maximize my time at sea?

A: Your question is a great follow-up to our last few columns on long-range travel. Obviously, a reliable water making system is vital to extending your time away from the dock. At ACY, we have achieved excellent results with watermakers provided by Parker Racor Village Marine. They recently provided a state-of-the-art high pressure system for our new 90-footer and upgraded the water making systems on several of the ACY fleet vessels.

For the ACY90, we selected the Pure Water (PW) Series – a top-of-the-line system designed for 24-hour use. A key component of the PW Series is its titanium pump, originally developed for military use. One of the quietest on the market, the PW Series pump is capable of withstanding the constant pressure of 800 psi of salt water around the clock. Titanium-backed pump valves add even further protection from the elements.

The two watermakers on the ACY90 are capable of producing up to 2,800 gallons per day. This type of system should be more than adequate for your needs. For more information on Parker Racor Village Marine watermakers, go to www.villagemarine.com or contact ACY at 772-221-9100.

Ask the Yacht Doctors©

Operating under a new name, IMS American Audio-Video (formerly FOX Audio-Video) has been bringing the finest in home entertainment to the Palm Beaches and the Treasure Coast for over 30 years. IMS specializes in custom

home theater design and installation, as well as complete residential and commercial integration and automation, including multi-zone audio-video, security, lighting, Wi-Fi communications and phone systems. Business services include complete IT solutions, public address systems, fire alarm systems, intercom and video conferencing systems and digital signage. Leading the sales and marketing efforts is Sales Manager Debbi Walsh, who brings extensive customer service experience and vast product knowledge as the former director of material management at FOX. To schedule a free home or office consultation, call 772-219-4460 or e-mail: debbi.walsh@imsamerican.com. Visit IMS American online at www.imsamerican.com.

A/V Division Gets New Name

Editor’s Box

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Debbi Walsh