
Brisbane-based aluminium plate-boat manufacturer Formosa Marine has launched its 2016 range of Sea-Rod Plate boats. The new Sea-Rod models include a 520 and 550 Deluxe Runabout featuring the new innovative ‘Step Transom’ with ‘Fold-Away Lounge Seat’.
The Sea-Rod brand is made up of two model ranges: the Deluxe and Offshore. The Deluxe, with plate-boat construction, offers build quality with competitive pricing. The Offshore range, with high-tensile construction, features a self-draining aluminium deck to provide peace of mind whatever the conditions.
We recently tested the Sea Rod 520 Deluxe Runabout
which you can read about in the link.
The following major changes, as pictured above, apply to Formosa's existing 520, 550, 580, 620 and 660 models.
Step Transom: No need to straddle the transom. The step transom, with an in built middle step, makes accessing the boat hassle free. Accompanied by a recessed transom top deck, that still provides 500mm freeboard in 550 model, and a ‘Fold-Away Lounge Seat’, access in and out of the boat from either side of the transom is now a breeze.
Fold-Away Lounge Seat: Just like that favourite Sofa Bed most of us have in our spare room for unexpected guests, the Sea-Rod ‘Fold-Away Lounge Seat’ is designed to be more than a backrest. Able to be set in three positions, it serves the following functions:
>> In the upright position it is a backrest for the lounge and a thigh guard for the rear transom.
>> Folded away it makes access over the transom easier by utilising the ‘Step Transom’. No need for separate transom door.
>> On a nice leisurely day it can be laid down flat on the transom and be a lounging bed or provide great rear-facing seating. With extra rod holders in the transom wings, you can utilize and access all of your boat. Note: There is an option to order the backrest as a fixed sealed unit to suit customer preference.
Full Length Pod with Four Ballast Tubes: Not only are Sea-Rods reknown for their four chamber counter-balance ballast, there is now a fully-enclosed pod. Unlike centre-lined ballast boats, the off-keel water ballasts not only lowers the hull line in the water but further minimises hull roll (caused by sea swell or uneven passenger distribution) A the chambers on the opposite side work as a counter, Formosa says.
SMALLER FORMOSA MODELS
Models in our 430 to 480 sizes including the Barra Boat range will be available as a branded Sea-Rod but will not have a ballast system or step transom. These models will be the same design as the existing Formosa Classic and Formosa Barra range.
For any questions please contact Duncan at Formosa Marine (07) 3393 9825 or admin@formosamarineboats.com.au.?