This new Sealegs amphibious fishing boat is unstoppable

Amphibious boat builder Sealegs has released its newest aquatic craft, the 7.7m Sport D-Tube. The largest recreational aluminium amphibian we've ever seen, the aquatic centre console is for those who want to launch in remote locations and fish virgin areas.

Built in-house by the Kiwi company, the new 7.7m Sport D-Tube expands on the popular 6.1m model in the D-Tube tinny range and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in an amphibious fishing boat.

The ability to easily navigate around the helm console and the high cockpit sides allow you to fish confidently and securely on the 7.7m Sport D-Tube.

Fishing features include a spread of six rod holders, a bait board and optional T-top, with plenty of scope to mount serious navigation and fish-finding electronics.

THE AMPHIBIOUS SYSTEM
Designed to be rapidly deployed, the 7.7m Sport D-Tube can be driven from a storage location or trailer straight down a launching ramp or beach from on-board and while staying dry.

The patented and fully marinised Amphibious Enablement System (AES) includes hydraulically powered legs and wheels. These are pushed along by a separate 22hp inboard engine sharing the main engine’s fuel supply.

Once in the water, the Sealegs wheels are retracted at the push of a button. The boat is then driven and used as normal, without any drag from the wheels locked clear of the hull running surface.

When returning to land — with your fish box brimming — the Sealegs wheels are lowered back into position while the boat is idling through the water. Then you simply tilt the main engine, hit the kill switch and drive out on the AES.

Once on land, the boat can be lowered until the hull is touching the ground, allowing passengers to disembark safely, kind of like dismounting from a camel.

FISHING APPEAL
The amphibious 7.7m Sport D-Tube will appeal to fishermen who want to access remote and shallow waters, using the Sealegs system to navigate their way to the desired spot no matter what tide.

The 21-degree deep-vee hull is built from 5mm aluminium and rated for 150hp-200hp outboards. A 200hp Yamaha four-stroke outboard gives 38.5 knots top speed on the water, says Sealegs.

The aluminium pontoon hull with so-called D-Tubes has been designed for exceptional stability and safety in big water, plus there is the added reassurance of not tearing the inflatable sponsons with a hook, gaff or shark bite.

THE MARKET SPEAKS
Sealegs CEO David McKee Wright says the new model was developed in response to international sales demand. Customers loved the 6.1m D-Tube, but they were wanting something bigger, with more space and more features.

"The initial response has been fantastic and the new model is now in full production," says McKee Wright.

The 7.7m Sport D-Tube is built to CE and USCG standards from the Auckland factory, which has sold more than 1100 craft sold to over 50 countries in the past 12 years.

Specifications: Sealegs 7.7m D-Tube
Length: 7.8m (25’ 7”) with wheels up
Beam: 2.26m (8’ 7”)
Hull Construction: 5mm (3/16”) aluminium
Height: 2.45m (8’ 1”) with wheels down
Deadrise at Transom: 21 degrees
Dry Weight: 1690kg
Max Passengers: 8 persons
Fuel Capacity: 180lt
Outboard: 150-200hp
Top Speed: 38.5 knots (full fuel and three people)
Speed on Land: 7kmh
More at Sea Legs 7.7m Sport D Tube.