
New Zealand boat builder Nicholas Fenton has built a trick Tino 570 HS centre-console that’s attracting plenty of attention. The unique lines and beautiful finish are complemented by solid-core buoyancy modules on each side of the hull.
"When we took it to the Auckland boat show I think 75 per cent of the people passing stopped, came over and said ‘wow’, which really felt great because it means we did something right," Fenton, the man behind Tino Marine in Papamoa on the Bay of Plenty, says.
While the 570 HS looks like an RIB at first but it’s not. These hull-side buoyancy modules developed by Tino are an ‘un-puncturable’, impact-absorbing alternative to traditional inflatable pneumatic tubes, providing increased stability with minimal maintenance.
Based on hi-end tenders, the craft is said to be multi-functional and ideal for fishing, tow sports or diving.
The 570 HS has a sleek GRP hull which makes for a manoeuvrable, dry and very well-behaved craft, too.
A flush deck, plenty of storage and room for up to six people are features, along with the wing-like bimini top, sculptured framework, LED lighting, WiFi, Bluetooth, four-speaker sound, stitched upholstery, and teak trim.
All of this is part of Fenton’s pursuit of excellence and the 570 HS is the result of seven years hard work and sacrifice.
As Mercury is also quick to point out, a new 115hp Mercury Pro XS FourStroke outboard was chosen as the perfect match for performance and style.
"The 570 has a huge demand for electrical power as the entire vessel is touch screen controlled with dual multi-function displays, so the engine’s ability to monitor the charge output and compensate if the power draw becomes too high eliminated a big worry," Fenton says.
"Initially I was looking at a 150hp engine, but Dean Harris from Mercury was absolutely certain that the 115 would be enough and he was spot on.
"The 570 is a big volume boat for a 5.7m craft, but this Mercury engine paired with the Command Thrust gearbox powers it easily and efficiently. The power honestly surprised me."
With fuel, water and several people aboard, the 570 HS tips the scales at 1.1 tonnes, which the 115hp Pro XS FourStroke can drive to 34 knots (63kmh) at WOT.
"The other thing is the sound level. Everyone I’ve had on the boat has commented on how quiet the engine is, even compared to other four strokes," he says.
It’s just like a RIB only better, says the marketing line. One smart Kiwi rig for sure. More at
Tino Marine.