Haines Hunter 680SC Applause

Based on the proven 680 Encore hull, the Ben Hipkins-designed craft features a layout that recognises that two big spaces work better than a multitude of small ones, HH's Barry Hibberd told Trade-A-Boat magazine.

"The boats have two major living spaces with roughly 40% given over to a huge forward cabin and around 60% to a wide open sundeck galley, dinette and helm station," he says.

The 7m trailerable cruiser boasts an all new ultra-modern sleek design which incorporates a standard moulded targa arch.

The fully lined cabin features a large vee-berth forward and provision for a marine toilet. Padded side shelves provide storage in the cabin in addition to underbunk storage. Headroom is 1.9m and four fixed portholes and an overhead hatch flood the area with natural light.

The helm area features a raised bridgedeck with storage under the helm station. Ample space is provided to mount electronics along with the usual banks of engine instruments. Hydraulic steering and soft grip sports steering wheel are standard. The double lounge-style helm seat has sliding adjustment.

To meet the needs of cruising boaters, HH has included a dedicated moulded fibreglass galley bench situated on the port side of the bridgedeck adjoining the control station. It features a deep sink and draining benches and underfloor storage. Further storage is provided under the galley cabinet. The bench top converts to side lounge with the addition of a removable cushion.

To complete this cruising experience, dinner can be served on the aft cockpit dinette and lounges.

A transom door, located to port, provides access to the integrated boarding platform.

Sterndrive, single and twin outboard versions of the craft are available. Fitted with a 200hp Evinrude OceanPro, the Applause can cruise at 25kt and winds out to 33.7kt, the company says.

For more information, contact OMC Haines Hunter, tel (07) 3287 4088.