Chef/Author Victoria Allman in the Krogen 55' Expedition Galley -- Photo Courtesy of Kadey-Krogen

At last week’s Trawler Fest, our own favorite professional chef, Victoria Allman, treated a group of VIP guests of Kadey-Krogen to an evening of haute cuisine hors d’oeuvres (classy snacks).  For two evenings, Victoria gave the gorgeous galley aboard the Krogen 55′ Expedition a workout.  The Kadey-Krogen folks (author Shannon Band, actually) wrote about the show and the dining delights in their latest blog, which you can read here.  Kadey-Krogen recently upgraded the galley designs and you will now find seriously upscale features, such as Viking ranges and the like on new Kadey-Krogen yachts.

I’m planning to talk with Victoria about not only the Krogen 55′ Expedition galley, but about galley design aboard yachts in general.  As the chef aboard several megayachts for many years now, Victoria knows all about both the hardware and software (food) requirements for fine dining at sea.  If you’ve read her book, “Sea Fare, A Chef’s Journey Across the Ocean,” you know she’s a great storyteller with some delectable recipes.  In fact, Victoria just released her second book, “SEAsoned, A Chef’s Journey with Her Captain,” which complements more great recipes with the often-spicy tales of professional life aboard these megayachts.  I wonder if I’m too old to ship out?

Anyway, look for our talk with Victoria about yacht galley design here on OceanLines after we get back from the Miami International Boat Show, in two weeks.

Copyright © 2011 by OceanLines LLC.  All rights reserved.

Garmin-Proposed Helm for the Kadey-Krogen 55' Expedition

In an announcement made on the London Stock Exchange today, Garmin announced it is offering 15 pence (19.74 cents U.S.) per share for all the shares of Raymarine Plc. Raymarine lately has been discussing the various offers made for its shares but had not specifically mentioned Garmin since talks broke down between the two firms last December.

In its filing, Garmin says Raymarine initially approached it about making an offer to purchase the company back in June of 2009 and that subsequent to a recently announced offer of 3.6 pence per share of Raymarine, the company decided to make an offer.

In its announcement, Garmin notes that its offer is:

- a 436 per cent. premium to the average share price of 2.8 pence per Raymarine Share in the three-month period ending on the day prior to the announcement of a possible offer for Raymarine on 11 March 2010;

- a 366 per cent. premium to the share price of 3.22 pence per Raymarine Share on the day prior to the announcement of a possible offer for Raymarine on 11 March 2010;

- a 275 per cent. premium to the possible amount of approximately 4 pence per Raymarine Share that would be available for return to Raymarine Shareholders under the non-offer proposal referred to in Raymarine’s announcement dated 21 April 2010; and

- a 152 per cent. premium to the share price of 5.95 pence per Raymarine Share as at the close of business on 27 April 2010, the closing price on the day prior to the date of this announcement.

Total consideration of approximately £12.5 million would be payable by Garmin to Raymarine Shareholders, assuming that no Raymarine Shares are issued between the date of this Announcement and the closing date of the Offer.

Garmin says it expects the offer will receive the necessary regulatory approvals. As of mid-afternoon today there has been no official response from Raymarine.

I believe this announcement is the latest evidence of the aggressive posture Garmin has taken in recent years toward the marine electronics market. The company has pioneered a great deal of innovation in non-marine markets and has become the de-facto market leader in general aviation, as well as dominating the handheld and automotive aftermarket GPS segments. Garmin made an innovative proposal for outfitting the new Kadey-Krogen 55′ Expedition when we asked the leading marine electronics companies to do so.

Copyright © 2010 by OceanLines LLC. All rights reserved.

New Kadey-Krogen 52' Trawler Rendering

Kadey-Krogen Yachts today, in a monthly newsletter to clients and interested followers, casually mentions that it is offering an entirely new model, the Krogen 52′. As you can see from the profile rendering above, the new trawler is definitely a Kadey-Krogen, with the tall, ship-like bow, classic pilothouse amidships, and rectangular portholes in the hull. In size, the new model fits nearly in the middle between the 48′ and 55′ Expedition.

In the newsletter, Kadey-Krogen says that it began discussing the boat with potential customers at the recent Trawler Fest in Fort Lauderdale, and that five hulls are already reserved. That should mean that construction on hull #1 should begin soon. I have heard from industry sources that the company will likely announce more details of the new Krogen 52′ soon, perhaps as early as the end of this week. I expect at that time we’ll have the initial specs for our readers, as well as some more light shed on the design particulars and features of the yacht.

Any way you look at it, this is a good sign for the industry. It means there are buyers out there for the right products.

Copyright © 2010 by OceanLines LLC.  All rights reserved.

Kadey-Krogen Yachts at the Salmon Bay Marine Center in Seattle

Northwest readers might consider stopping by the new Kadey-Krogen Yachts facility at the Salmon Bay Marine Center in Seattle for the open house scheduled for October 2-4.  Hull #2 of the new 55′ Expedition series is tied up alongside at the SBMC and if you haven’t seen this yacht yet it’s worth a visit.  The 55′ Expedition is a beefy, long-range trawler with an astonishing amount of room packed into its ship-like design.  We’ve written extensively about it here on OceanLines because we think its a striking example of all the major design considerations coming together in an especially pleasing manner (full disclosure: Kadey-Krogen is an advertiser here on OceanLines).

The Kadey-Krogen open house is at the company’s new facilities at the SBMC.  The company noted in its announcement about the move earlier this summer, that the SBMC  ”is home to some of the finest names in the maritime world and its facilities include extensive moorage space on floating docks as well as new offices and shops. The SBMC (www.sbmcseattle.com) is ideally situated with access to professional painters, a hydraulic shop, engine repair center, stainless steel manufacturers, canvas and upholstery providers, and a host of other marine professionals.”

Kadey-Krogen Seattle Office contact info:

Kadey-Krogen Yachts
2288 West Commodore Way, Suite 220
Seattle, WA  98199
206.453.5631

Copyright © 2009 OceanLines LLC

Simrad gb40-helm-landscape view

In early February here on OceanLines, we debuted a new series called “Let’s Outfit the New Kadey-Krogen 55′ Expedition“” — a series which presented proposed marine electronics proposals from several of the major manufacturers in the business.  In this latest article in the series, Simrad details how it would outfit the popular new trawler.  The Simrad proposal takes advantage of some of the latest “glass bridge” technology, as well as the company’s new BR24 Broadband Radar, which we’ve written positively about here.  The Simrad outfitting also takes advantage of some nifty networking with the Class B AIS unit and the VHF to capitalize on DSC calling.  And one other feature, for me anyway, is a deal maker — these units are compatible with the Jeppesen C-Map MAX Pro cartography, which can be auto-updated as frequently as you like, which is a critical safety enhancement (See our earlier article on auto-updating here.)

Simrad’s proposal was provided by Paul Comyns, marketing director, B&G, Northstar and Simrad brands.  Comyns thinks the Krogen 55′ Expedition is the perfect yacht for Simrad’s GB40 Glass Bridge Navigation system.  You can see a company video on the GB40 here.  Together with its big brother, the GB60, this system represents the state-of-the-art from Simrad for recreational boaters.  It is a fully networked system based on black box components and fully compatible with the NMEA2000 network communications protocol, making expansion virtually limitless.

The Recommendation

For our fictional couple’s Krogen 55′, Simrad suggests we use a single, large 19″ flat screen display in the wheelhouse.  It’s large enough to make viewing even detailed chart, radar or AIS presentations easier.  You can download the proposal and a spreadsheet with the component list.  Here are the details:

“Main navigation screen placed centrally in the wheelhouse, configurable to display chart, radar, echosounder and engine data, along with video input from an Ethernet video camera connected to the GB40. An option is available to use a network video server allowing the connection of up to four video cameras monitoring the aft deck or engine room space.

Engine data can also be displayed on the GB40 direct from the engines using the NMEA2000 onboard network.

Using the Navico Weather module SIRIUS Weather Data can be overlaid onto the chart plotter display showing user selected real-time weather information.

The recommended radar antenna for this size of vessel would be a 6kW 4ft open array radar, with a maximum range of 64NM. This radar combined with the GB40 has a 10 target MARPA function and the requested Guard Zone capability. With other vessel information from the Class B AIS (Simrad AI50) displayed as overlaid targets on the chartplotter and radar.

The GB40 is controlled by a wired remote control that can be positioned close to the operator, it also has the ability to be controlled by the Simrad WR20 Wireless Remote, this allows for very flexible control of the GB40 navigation system by the operator, even from the wheelhouse sofa.

Simrad gb40-second-station installation on different boat

The GB40 provides for a second, networked display and control station, suitable for a flybridge, nav station aboard a sailboat, or perhaps in the office or master stateroom. Here’s how that could work:

“The GB40 has the expansion option to add a second display (10” or 15”), for use on a flybridge or at a second navigation station or in the master stateroom. This displays all the information that is on the main unit and can be operated by a local control panel, or if required it can be just a repeater with no local control. This option is often used for a saloon monitor for guests to monitor the progress of the voyage, but not change any settings.”

Additional Sensors

Simrad’s proposal notes the details of echosounder/fish finder installation and integration and puts special emphasis on the inclusion of AIS technology. Interestingly, Comyns says, “we recommend in this instance the Simrad AI50 rather than the black box NAIS300. The AI50 allows us to enable a feature called Buddy tracking, and this combined with a Simrad AI50 installed on the tender would allow for easy tracking of the tender and displaying the information on the chartplotter and radar. The Simrad AI50 is a Class B AIS and so is also transmitting your own ships data for any vessel to see.”

Comyns also clears up an issue of confusion for some boaters related to how Class B-equipped boats are seen by commercial vessels using Class A AIS systems.

A number of questions have been raised regarding the ability of Class A AIS units not being able to “See” Class B AIS units like the Simrad AI50 and the NAIS300 Blackbox transceivers.

This issue relates to ‘Message 24’ which was a new message introduced for Class B after many Class A devices had been manufactured and installed. Message 24 contains the ‘Static Data’ (vessel related info) including: vessel name, radio call sign, length, beam, type of vessel.

• Provided that the Class B has been installed correctly and is not faulty, it is highly likely that if a receiving device that does not ‘see’ all the Class B details is an older class A device (or cheaper receiver).
• It is also possible that if the receiving vessel has a good quality AIS receiver/ transponder that is known to process all AIS messages, the chart plotter may be older or has not been updated to display all AIS messages.
• All modern chartplotters have now been updated to display the class B details & most Class A manufacturers have now issued software updates to address this issue

The most important thing to get across here is that although the name and call sign may not be received, the Position, Course and Speed information of the Class B WILL BE RECEIVED by Class A devices. This is the navigationally significant information that will help you to avoid collisions!

Redundancy

Simrad NX45 Chartplotter

Simrad offers two options for redundancy aboard the Krogen 55′ Expedition. Our couple could choose to add a second GB40 system or go with a Simrad NX45 Navigation System. The NX45 is an integrated chartplotter unit but it fully networkable with the systems onboard. Either of these two options can be used with the company’s new BR24 Broadband radar, which, in this writer’s opinion, is a game-changing technology. OceanLines wrote extensively about this radar in an earlier article and we said then that it would make a perfect backup or dedicated short-range system for any passagemaker.

Instruments and Communications

Simrad notes that its SimNet network will allow the sharing of data throughout the network.  For our application, the company suggests the addition of Simrad IS20 displays, capable of repeating any data at any location.  The recommendation for the helm is for an analogue IS20 Rudder Angle Indicator, along with an IS20 Wind Indicator, giving both wind speed and direction.

Simrad IS20 Rudder Angle Display Instrument

Simrad IS20 Graphic Display Instrument

For depth info, the proposal is to use an IS20 Graphic display, which can also show any other network information in graphic form.  Simrad notes that all the IS20 instruments can be placed in the main cabin and stateroom as well as the pilothouse.  Alarms can be set on the IS20 displays for change in depth, for example, ideal when at anchor and as an early indicator of slippage.  Another alarm might be set for increasing wind velocity.

Simrad gb40-bb-with-vhf-bb installations

Comyns notes in his proposal that Simrad’s flagship RS86/87 modular VHF system could serve as a complete-boat communications system, with loudhailers, intercom speakers and full second station options.  This is a full Class D DAS VHR radio.  Comyns notes:

“The RS86 fixed mount control unit with fist mike would be best suited at the main steering position and then the remote stations can use the RS87 full function handsets with a separate loudspeaker. Extra Intercom speakers can be used around the vessel and the loudhailer has a talk back function, ideal if some one is on the foredeck and wishes to call back into the wheelhouse, no more shouting or missed instructions. 

DSC calling, this function now really is easy linked to the Simrad AI50 Class B AIS, just identify the ship on the AI50 screen with the cursor and select DSC Call, the VHF will then automatically initiate a call direct to the ship. Ideal for calling up commercial craft that may be crossing your intended route, no more unanswered VHF hails.”

Video Surveillance

Simrad says that, using a network video server, it “is possible to have up to four cameras connected into the GB40 Navygation system for engine room or aft deck monitoring.”  The video is configurable onscreen — full-screen, for example, for docking maneuvers.  Simrad says the system includes a DVD player and a music library jukebox for entertainment.

Summary

The Simrad proposal for outfitting the new Kadey-Krogen 55′ Expedition includes some unique features, and with the GB40 you have the entry level to true glass-bridge capabilities.  The next step up in the Simrad line, the GB60 might be considered overkill for the Krogen 55′, but does offer even more display and system control opportunities.  It also allows for connection of stand-alone radars on larger yachts where type certification may require it.

A Full-Up Simrad GB40 Glass Bridge Navigation System Covers Many Bases

One of the highlights, so to speak, of the Simrad proposal is the display opportunities. The flat screens currently offered with the glass bridge systems are new designs that have smaller overall dimensions and brighter screens.  So, for example, one of these new Simrad 19″ screens might fit where previously only a 16″ display from another maker might have worked. 

The other distinguishing element of this proposal is the ability to take advantage of the new BR24 Broadband radar, which we think every boater should be considering, whether as a stand-alone unit on a smaller boat, or as a short-range workhorse and overall system backup for long range yachts.  And with the ability to use the Jeppesen C-Map MAX Pro charts on these units (you really need to see the Broadband radar overlay on those charts), you have a major safety enhancement over any other cartography out there.  The Simrad Glass Bridge Systems are clearly the way of the future and with the company’s emphasis on introducing the highest levels of technology, you really should be considering getting a headstart on the future of marine helms with this approach.

Copyright © 2009 OceanLines LLC

The helm of the new Kadey-Krogen 55 Expedition Awaits Outfitting

On Monday, February 2, 2009, OceanLines will publish the first in a unique series of articles intended to demonstrate the current state-of-the-art of passagemaking-level marine electronics.  We have been working with Kadey-Krogen Yachts and its vice president, Larry Polster, to demonstrate how each of four of the top marine electronics companies would outfit the newest Kadey-Krogen Yacht — the 55′ Expedition, which just arrived here in the U.S. and made its public debut at the Stuart Trawlerfest last weekend.  The 55 Expedition will be on prominent display at the upcoming Miami International Boatshow.

For this series, we asked Furuno, Garmin, Raymarine and Simrad to give us their recommendations, based on a fictional Request For Proposal (RFP) from a a fictional couple just acquiring their new 55 Expedition.  The RFP — which you can read in detail HERE – discusses the couple’s cruising plans, their general preferences in equipment, and the specific capabilities they require from the new electronics installed on board.

In order to help the marine electronics OEMs, Kadey-Krogen provided detailed drawings and specifications on the 55 Expedition, converting CAD files directly from the design into more portable document formats.  The OEMs were each given the RFP and the boat documentation early this month and they have responded with their recommendations and rationale.  Beginning Monday, we will present each individual response — one at a time, each day next week, concluding on Friday with a wrap-up and analysis of the series.

So, have a good look at this pristine helm station onboard one of the newest passagemaking yachts available and come back on Monday to see how Garmin proposes our fictional couple outfit the helm.

Copyright ©  2009 by OceanLines LLC

First Kadey-Krogen 55 Nears Completion. Photo: Courtesy of Kadey Krogen

Kadey-Krogen expects the first new 55′ Expedition trawler to ship from the shipyard, Asia Harbor Yacht Builders, in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, sometime during the first week of December, according to company executives. OceanLines has obtained the first photos of the boat, shown nearing completion.  In the photo above, the deep forward section, with its fine entry and predicted waterline marking, can be seen clearly.

Kadey-Krogen’s Larry Polster says the 55′ Expedition should be at the Miami Boat Show in February, but might even make it to the Trawler Fest in Stuart, FL, in late January.  During a discussion aboard the company’s Krogen 58′ at the recent Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Polster talked about the collaboration between Kadey-Krogen and the launch customers for its new models. The company recognizes that the first buyers are making something of a leap of faith, since there isn’t a boat yet to walk through before making the purchase decision, but also that sometimes customers have their own great ideas for innovation and improvements to the original design. Sometimes, says Polster, there is also just a matter of taste and preference involved and customers simply want a slightly unique configuration.

The 55′ Expedition is a true, ocean-going passagemaker and incorporates many of the most rigorous classification standards in its design, although the boat is not technically classed. Among these standards are the five collision bulkheads, making for six completely watertight compartments. The 55′ also features an aramid fiber (Kevlar-like) in the stem, keel and transom for the strongest possible structure.  OceanLines covered more of the details of the 55′ Expedition here.

Polster says the second hull in the series will be delivered to the U.S. Northwest, Seattle specifically, probably in May and may be there in time for the Trawler Fest in Anacortes, where it will undoubtedly draw a great deal of attention.

Copyright ©  2008 by OceanLines