New Haines Signature 788SF centre console

Haines Signature launched its the first ever 788SF, the biggest centre console the Queensland boatbuilder has ever built and the first boat in Australia with twin Suzuki DF350A outboards, at the Brisbane Boat Show 2017 from August 25-27.

A flagship sportfisher in both the boat and engine makers’ ranges, the 788SF centre console features an all-new hull with full composite construction, a 16-34 degree signature variable-deadrise running surface, and 500lt-plus of fuel capacity.

The centre console showboat will also be loaded with options including Suzuki Precision Manoeuvring joystick. A hardtop and other gear including outriggers, radar and floodlights will be fitted after the boat show to create a Tournament level sportfisher ahead of its sea trials.

With the recent resurgence in American centre consoles, this Australian-built model is going to offer a hot locally-made alternative with a number of big advantages, not least being towability.

The 2.50m beam means this 26-footer will legally trailerable without a permit. We're unsure of its on-road weight, but Signature is promoting the 788SF as one of the biggest legally towable boats in the country.

SUZUKI DF350A POWER
Running twin black 4.4L Suzuki DF350A outboards, we expect a top speed of more than 50 knots and perhaps the boat might even crack the 100kmh or 54 knots barrier. This should translate to long-range cruise speeds around 30-35 knots, leaving the spray well astern of the helm as you power offshore.

The V6 DF350A outboards (news article) feature Suzuki's Dual Prop System, which comprises twin contra-rotating propellers on the one outboard to more efficiently transmit forward thrust, enhance acceleration and bolster directional stability.

While it’s going to be a sizzling sportfisher, the 10-person passenger capacity means the big boat can double as a party platform. This is pretty much the way centre consoles are being used these days — fish and family — and a full head, toilet and shower are part of the package.

From what we’ve seen so far, the 788SF centre console certainly looks the part, with a smart fold-down helm module for easy access to the wiring, which also featured twin 16in Simrad screens.

Underfloor we're told there are big fish wells, a large live-bait tank is built in, and everything is built atop a foam filled hull.

IN HONOUR OF JOHN HAINES
On Wednesday, August 22, 2017, John Haines Junior wrote "that in loving memory of our founder John Sydney Haines AM, we are pleased to announce that we have completed the build of our latest flagship model, the 788SF, on this day, the 8th anniversary of his passing."

"As John used to say: 'Perfection is attained by doing the common thing uncommonly well'... and the team here at The Haines Group do our best to live up to this philosophy each day," John Junior said.