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Things I never knew existed: Island Packet Trawler

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The Island Packet PY 41 is a unique semi displacement trawler based on the IP SP cruiser  . The 41' shares many traits with it's motor sailor cousin including a ballasted keel that should make for a very seaworthy 41'. My favorite features are the excellent fuel economy per this Power and motor yacht article and the kid friendly 2nd stateroom. I also kind of like the forward cockpit as at anchor and dock hang out spot. I;m not sure how many were made but they seem pretty rare on the brokerage market. I could easily picture this as a coastal cruiser for the family. Coming from a sailing family the odd for a powerboat layout seems pretty good to my eye. This would be awesome for week long adventures along the New England coast with short run times between interesting harbors. It would also make for a really nice Loop boat.

Inflatable boat Materials (The Hypalon PVC debate)

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Inflatable boat Materials (The Hypalon PVC debate) In this article I will try to outline some of the strengths and weakness of the two materials most commonly used in inflatable boat construction as well as talk about several other materials on the market. Most of this is based on the time I spent working for one of the largest inflatable boat dealers in the US. Let’s start with the basics of both materials. Hypalon- Hypalon is a synthetic rubber made (or made under license) by the Dupont company. Hypalon has been around for more than half a century proving itself to be one of the most durable synthetic rubbers around. Hypalon is actually chlorosulfonated polyethylene meaning it’s a polyethylene with varying amounts of sulfur an chlorine added based on application. PVC - Is essential a hard plastic converted into a flexible material through additives. PVC is short for poly vinyl chloride. PVC was first discovered in the 1800 but the correct additives to make it into a useful mate