Catch of the Century

Famous American fishboats arrive Down Under

Troll the annals of American boatbuilding and you’ll find Century. The namesake company was founded in 1926 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, before it moved to Michigan where it stayed for over 60 years.

In the 1930s, Century Hurricane held the world's Outboard Speed Record of 50.93 miles per hour. By 1937, the yard offered 28 models built by hand from wood.

There has plenty of water under the bridge since then. The big change in tack was when Yamaha Motor Corporation purchased Century in 1995 and merged it with Cobia Boat Company. In March 2005, Century sold Cobia and moved to a “one Brand, one vision” model.

But things didn’t last and in 2012 Century was purchased by Allcraft Marine, LLC and relocated to Florida. It’s in the wake of that acquisition and strong new parentage that the famous Century brand has relaunched with renewed vigour and, finally, representation Down Under.

AUSTRALIAN DEBUT

Century debuted at last month’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show with two very cool-looking, thoroughly kitted-out, and well-received models: the 2301 Centre Console (pictured so watch this space for the full test), and the 1701 Inshore centre console (which handled surprisingly well offshore, too).

A 2001 is also in stock, with a lot of interest in the 24-26 foot walkarounds. A couple of boats have already been sold by partners and mad-keen local anglers James Neilsen (GM) and Mark Saveall (Sales Manager). It’s all about taking baby steps with the new business and brand but there’s no disputing the quality and provenance of Century boats.

Century offers an impressive fleet of purpose-built saltwater fishing boats from 17-32ft including Express, Walk-Around, Centre Console and Inshore flat-fishing-type models to meet the varying demands of pleasure and pro anglers.

Fishability, luxury and reliability are the hallmarks of these largely hardcore fishing machines. But there’s plenty of scope to shape a factory-rolled boat to your exacting and perhaps softer-core family/fish needs.

POINTS OF DIFFERENCE

There are some other interesting points of difference with Century compared with other mainstream Yankee fishboat brands…

Each Century comes with a 10-year warranty for the hull and deck structure; steering, electrical, fuel delivery, controls, upholstery, canvas, and accessories are covered for three years; and gelcoat finishes are backed for one full year. Plus, the warranties are fully transferable.

Composite construction is used from bow to stern. Century partners with the Vectorply Corporation to ensure ‘glass and core materials are the latest in reinforcement technology. A RIB system (Rigid Integrated Beams) is used for improved hull strength without an increase in overall weight.

Hull strakes are laminated with specially biased fibreglass rovings for strength and protection, GRP stringers give added hull support and load distribution, with reinforced multidirectional fibreglass in the layup, and foam injection in the voids to reduce sound and vibration.

Bronze thru-hulls are fitted below the waterline, stainless steel and Stalon thru-hulls are used above it, with premium, high-flex Armorcote®/Image gelcoat for durability and consistent gloss. Thru-bolted stainless steel hardware and impressive waterproof marine electrical systems are other key features.

You get factory-installed electronics, an E-Box entertainment system designed to let you hear your favourite playlists while powering to the fishing grounds, and each boat has a unique and matching Power Command Centre (read battery management panel) with all breakers in one, easy-to-see location.

TAILOR MADE

“We’re all about the end user and the idea is you just build a boat. Choose your layout, engine, hull colour and fit out to suit your purpose,” explains Mr Neilsen, a self-confessed “massively keen angler” from the new local Century business.

More at www.centuryboats.com.au and watch this space for our tests of these impressive and keenly priced sportfishers.

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Catch of the Century

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