A new kind of Moose in the water - Marine Propulsion - new welded aluminum power catamarans from Moose Boat Co - Brief Article

Diesel Progress North American Edition, June, 2002

Moose Boat Co., Nicasio, Calif., has launched the first of its new generation welded aluminum power catamarans, the 13200. The J3200 features a symmetrical catamaran hull that incorporates a new design concept in which a center wave breaker cushions the hull, reducing jarring and pounding, the company said. The lifting strakes and reverse chines throw the spray and enable the hull to stay on a plane at as low as 12 to 14 knots.

With an emphasis on safety, functionality and performance, the Moose Boat J3200 is an all-weather, multipurpose boat, the company said. Applications include sport fishing, diving and weekend cruising.

The J3200's propulsion system consists of two Cummins 6BTA5.9-M3 diesel engines with a combined rating of 330 hp and twin Hamilton 274 water jets. Top speed for the vessel is 35 knots. Cruising speed is 29 knots.

The propulsion system incorporates Racor 900 fuel filters, two ZF 88C marine transmissions for positive neutral and back flushing of the jet pumps and Mathers Clear Command electronic controls. Steering is hydraulic and controlled through a Teleflex system.

The engine room is separated from the two 145 gal. welded aluminum fuel tanks by a watertight bulkhead. According to Moose Boat, the fuel tanks are fully baffled and tested to USCG and ABYC specifications. The engine room and hatches are acoustically and thermally insulated.

Moose Boat's J3200 catamaran has an overall length of 34.5 ft., an 11.2 ft. beam, a maximum draft hull of 23 in. and a dead rise of 15[degrees].

Moose Boats are built using 5000 and 6000 series marine grade aluminum plating and extrusions. According to the company, marine grade aluminum has a high strength to weight ration making the vessels more efficient, extremely durable, corrosion-resistant and maintenance free.

According to Moose Boat, a standard maintenance regime on an aluminum boat consists of changing the zincs anodes and keeping the bottom clean. The metal work on the vessel requires no upkeep, the company said, and. propulsion and operation systems require standard maintenance as per the manufacturers' recommendations.

www.mooseboats.com