Wild times for Suzuki in Tassie

The new Suzukis replace three 250hp Yamaha four-stroke engines.

Brisbane-based Woody Marine purpose-built and launched the Naiad 11.3m stepped hull as an eco-tourism vessel for Wild Thing Adventures earlier this year.

The Naiad was equipped with the DF300s this month to enhance the tour experience with high-end power and a smooth ride.

Woody Marine managing director, David Green, said the decision to adopt Suzuki technology was based on the design of the DF300, its higher horsepower-to-weight ratio and its superior fuel economy.

"Despite its lightweight, compact and streamlined design, at 4.0lt this new engine offers the largest displacement of any V6 outboard on the market," said Green.  

Travelling at a daredevil speed of 30 knots but capable of achieving 50 knots, the inflatable pontoon design of the vessel coupled with the efficient DF300s offers stability for the 26 passengers, ensuring they are comfortable and secure, said Wild Thing Adventures.

Skipper and owner of Wild Thing, Glen Shackcloth, said the performance advantages over another leading brand include smoother, more decisive shifting and quicker throttle response.

"These factors are especially important when manoeuvring Wild Thing in and out of the tight spaces on the tour route," said Shackcloth.

"Wild Thing is breaking new ground in the tourism industry. It is the only RIB that departs Hobart on a regular basis for remote coastal destinations including the huge seal colony at the bottom end of Bruny Island. 

Wild Thing circumnavigates Betsey Island, North and South Bruny Islands including Adventure Bay, the Totem Pole and the Friar Rocks three times daily, seven days a week.

For more info, telephone (07) 3393 5995; (07) 3718 5621, or (03) 6224 2021.