NZ builder claims 'world first' amphibious production boat

By IBI Magazine

Sealegs Explorer is a high performance, 4.7m amphibious runabout which can be driven in and out of the water, eliminating the need for a trailer or towing vehicle. At the touch of a button, three wheels can be lowered or raised and tucked away, like the undercarriage of a plane.

But unlike previous amphibious forerunners, the manufacturer claims that Sealegs Explorer is first and foremost a safe, highly manoeuvrable marine craft, with no sacrifice to its water performance characteristics to accommodate its ability on land. It has a top speed, on water, of 60kms (37mph) making it suitable for water skiing or hi-speed search and rescue work, while on land it can travel, either reverse or forward, at up to 10kms (6mph).

The brainchild of Sealegs International founder and IT Capital Chief Operating Officer, Maurice Bryham, the Sealegs concept has taken more than four years to bring to market and currently has international patents pending.

"Sealegs has been developed to perform in New Zealand's unique and demanding marine conditions," says Bryham, "and we know there will also be widespread appeal for a craft with the ability to drive in and out of the water in many other parts of the world."

Bryham says the unique Kiwi invention has worldwide opportunities and that it "fills a very real need in the market, making access to and from the water quicker, safer and much more user friendly."

The 4.7m Sealegs Explorer sells for NZ$75,000 (US$40,000). Full details are available via the website www.sealegs.co.nz

(19 February 2003)