VOLU

ME 50 - 2013

Fax: (772) 288-4993 • Website: www.americancustomyachts.com • E-mail: info@acyinc.comAMERICAN CUSTOM YACHTS, INC. • 6800 S.W. JACK JAMES DRIVE • STUART, FL 34997 • (772) 221-9100

Patriot PressNE WS AND INFORMATION FROM AMERICAN CUSTOM YACHTS

Celebrating Our 50th Issue! 1

C’est La Vie’s spectacular Debut

The new ACY90 C’EST LA VIE flew out of the gate with grace and style during sea trials, recording a top speed of 48.3 knots and performing beautifully. Powered by twin MTU V-drive engines at 4,600 HP each, the vessel is crafted for practicality and comfort with six staterooms and five heads accommodating a full crew during extended open-ocean adventures. Add a unique stern-facing galley and a beautifully-finished teak mezzanine, and you have the ultimate dream machine designed to keep anglers on the bite. For a sneak preview of the C’EST LA VIE in action, go to www.americancustomyachts.com.

ACY fleet boat CHACH has had some memorable seasons on the water over the years, but this past year has topped all others. In April, Team FREEDOM was invited for a day of fishing aboard the CHACH in the Dominican Republic with Captain Dave Dalfo at the helm and Matt Coppoletta running the cockpit. It turned out to be a day of fishing like no other. Angler Dino Chouest had some business to attend to, so he turned the duties over to his 15-year-old son Alex. Already a seasoned angler, Alex was intent on pitching his own baits with no assistance from the crew. FREEDOM Captain Albert Miller chronicled the events in articles published in Marlin, InTheBite and Billfish magazines. Miller wrote: “As Captain Dave teased the fish in, Alex tossed the pitch and readied himself for the assault, which came three times and in quick succession. It was done as quickly as it started. He had only a couple of minutes to reflect before another fish gave him a chance. This time he smoothly pushed the drag to strike and the circle hook found its mark, allowing him to catch the fish. With the skill of a veteran angler, he never missed on the pitch again for the rest of the day! By midmorning we were 3/4, and then shortly after lunch, 4/5. By midafternoon Alex had achieved his personal best day angling and was approaching the best day of blue marlin fishing he had ever been involved in.” The intense action continued, and by late afternoon Alex was 7/9, tying the boat’s record for a single day of fishing. Miller describes what occurred next: “After a miss on a rigger and a few anticipation-filled minutes, Alex was back in the chair coaxing the swivel out of the water as the fish angled toward the surface. While Captain Dave had the CHACH pinned in reverse,

CHaCH Makes History

Continued on page 11 ...

Alex, bait pitched and ready for the bite

Refitted at ACY with a number of custom upgrades, the eye-catching 58’ Jarrett Bay WHOO DAT is ready to make its mark on Gulf Coast waters doing what it does best – raising fish! The American Family of Companies combined forces to make WHOO DAT a truly unique showpiece worthy of the Jarrett Bay legacy. ACY installed a new teak cockpit deck, along with new covering boards,

custom cockpit speaker boxes, a below-deck fish box and a custom live well with tuna tubes integrated into the transom. Additional upgrades include new cockpit fuel tanks and running gear, LED through-hull underwater lights, a keel-mounted transducer, interior carpet and a new salon A/C compressor. ACY also performed numerous paint blends to accommodate the many build outs. A custom tuna tower, loaded with rod holders, was added by Bausch-American Towers – complete with tri-color dome lights, LED spreader lights, a drop-down radio box and recessed teaser reels. American Canvas and Interiors contributed with a complete exterior seating makeover, recovering the bridge, mezzanine and helm seats. IMS American’s marine division added the finishing touches, installing a state-of-the art navigation package with three 15-inch KEP Marine 1,500 nit sunlight LCD monitors and Simrad components, including NSO black box processors, a TX10s 10-kilowatt radar with six-inch open array and a BSM-2 broadband CHIRP compatible echosounder. An Airmar variable frequency CHIRP transducer was also installed. The tower box features a Simrad NSE eight-inch multifunction display. Satellite communications and entertainment are provided by a KVH TracPhone V3 with a rack-mounted ACU and modem and a KVH TracVision HD7 Tri-Americas satellite TV system. A Simrad WM-2 Sirius Satellite Weather and Radio Module and a Simrad NAIS-300L Class B AIS with N2K interface completes the package. If you’re out fishing anywhere between Orange Beach and Grand Isle, keep your eye out for WHOO DAT. The boat won’t be hard to miss, and chances are they’ll be hooked up!

Vessel SpotlightWHOO Dat stands Out from the Crowd

2 Celebrating Our 50th Issue!

New aCY66 UnderwayConstruction is underway on a new 66-foot convertible sportfisherman at ACY, incorporating new boat-building technology and a design unlike any other American on the water. The hull has been constructed on a plasma-cut steel jig utilizing ACY’s traditional composite cold-molded process, but that’s where the similarities end. The house and bridge are being fabricated out of lightweight materials encased in molded fiberglass, giving the new ACY66 a look that is distinctively different, yet truly American. Visit www.americancustomyachts.com or like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/americancustomyachts) to watch the progress unfold.

The engine room bulkheads have been inserted into the jig, and the bottom planking is complete.

The hull sides are fully planked, and the hull is being prepped for glassing.

The keel and stringers are laid on a custom steel jig created with a computerized plasma cutter to ensure absolute accuracy.

Glassing is complete, and the hull is being prepped for glazing and fairing.

IMS American’s audio-video division installed a state-of-the-art 21-seat theater room at one of Florida’s premier retirement communities located in Stuart. The installation includes a 103-inch Vutec SilverStar movie screen, an Integra receiver, a Blu-ray DVD player and an Epson 1080p HD projector. The system is controlled by a Crestron MC2E processor with Crestron wall-mounted and handheld touch panels, providing complete audio-video source selection and scene lighting control. Theater-quality audio is provided by a 7:1 surround-sound speaker system with SpeakerCraft in-ceiling speakers and a Monitor Audio subwoofer. There’s no need for these residents to buy movie tickets ever again!

The recipient of a major audio-video system refit in 2011 (highlighted in American Patriot Press Vol. 48), the 76’ Whiticar sportfish BOOMER returned to IMS in 2012 for a cutting-edge navigation system upgrade, including a new bridge array with 15-inch KEP LCD glass bridge monitors, along with a Furuno NavNet 3D Black Box multifunction display/chartplotter and 25-kilowatt UHD digital radar. Satellite communication and entertainment is provided by a KVH TracPhone V3 with ACU modem and a KVH TracVision HD7 Tri-Americas satellite TV system. The final touch – a FLIR joystick-controlled M-625L NTSC premium night vision camera system provides crystal-clear video images day and night.

That’s entertainment!

BOOMeR Goes Big with New Nav Package

iMs Makes a splash with New electrical DivisionIMS American’s new electrical division opened with a big splash, providing electric service to Martin County’s highly successful new Sailfish Splash Waterpark. The 10-month project, employing a team of 15, entailed running three-phase, 1600-amp/480-watt electrical service throughout the park via a main breaker room with 10 electrical panels and a separate distribution room.

Electric service was supplied to 14 massive pumps responsible for keeping water flowing smoothly throughout the park. The pumps circulate water through two four-story-tall water slides, a 1,000-foot lazy river and a 7,326-square-foot water playground with a 300-gallon dump bucket. The pumps also maintain flow to the park’s 50-meter swimming and diving pool and 25-yard teaching and warm-up pool. Additional work included installing 488 lighting fixtures and providing service to the concession stand, party rooms, bath and shower facilities and parking lot. The work was completed on budget and on time, much to the delight of Martin County residents.

(800) 960-8476 · Florida: (772) 219-4460 · North Carolina: (252) 728-7720 · www.imsamerican.com

iMs NeWsResidential · Commercial · Marine

Keep up with the latest information from ACY at www.americancustomyachts.com. 3

Product Profile

The American Family teamed up to give the custom 64’ Precision SWAGGER an upgrade worthy of its new name. ACY installed a new teak mezzanine and deck and modified the helm console to accommodate a new electronics package. The craftsmen at Bausch-American Towers installed a custom full tower, incorporating the vessel’s existing hard top fitted with a new clear2sea acrylic bridge curtain by American Canvas and Interiors. ACY and BAT lit up the boat from the top down with tri-color tower and underwater lighting. Meanwhile, IMS American was busy installing a premier navigation and audio-video package. Navigation components include twin 17-inch KEP sunlight readable LCD monitors and a complete Simrad navigation suite. Satellite entertainment and communications components include a KVH TracVisionHD7 Tri-Americas system, a KVH TracPhone V7 system and a pair of Icom 504 VHF marine radios. The bridge stereo features a

Fusion Electronics MS-IP700 receiver with iPod/iPhone dock and JL Audio M770 coaxial marine speakers. Completing the electronics package is a Carlisle & Finch 200-watt xenon searchlight and a FLIR premium night vision camera. Audio-video components include new LED TVs in the salon and V-berth, a lift-up LED TV in the master stateroom and an Integra surround-sound system with SpeakerCraft speakers and a Sunfire subwoofer – all integrated with Sirius home satellite radio and an Apple Mac mini and Apple TV system. A Crestron Prodigy media controller operates all components from audio-video to TV lifts and window shades. Additional work on the vessel included installation of a new watermaker, a new A/C raw water supply, new through-hulls, keel repairs and new running gear. With all this cool stuff, there’s no doubt that SWAGGER will turn heads wherever it goes.

Vessel SpotlightsWaGGeR’s Upgrade with attitude

FLIR Systems – the world’s leading manufacturer of onboard thermal imaging night vision devices – allows boaters to see with confidence at all hours. Creating images from heat, not light, FLIR offers a range of superior

thermal night vision products.

FLIR’s M-Series thermal cameras give boaters clear visibility even in total darkness. With four times the resolution and twice the range of competitive systems,

M-Series cameras allow boaters to clearly see navigation hazards such as boats, channel markers, outcroppings and people from a great distance. The M-Series’ design draws on FLIR’s 25 years of experience building combat-proven airborne and maritime thermal imagers for the military.

Combining superior performance and power with the convenience of portability, FLIR’s new First Mate II handheld camera offers an

affordable option for thermal night vision with outstanding features. First Mate II’s InstAlert™ detection function highlights the hottest elements in a scene in red, allowing you to not only see clearly in the dark, but also find the hottest objects faster than ever. This could make a life-saving difference in crew overboard situations. Built to survive the most demanding environmental conditions, First Mate II is fully submersible, runs for more than five hours on a single battery charge, and is simple to operate with one hand. It’s the perfect solution for any

vessel, and since it’s not attached, it can also be used at home, on the trail or anywhere else you want to see at night.

Learn more about FLIR maritime thermal night vision products at www.flir.com/patriot or call IMS American at 772-219-4460.

see at Night, stay safe and enjoy the Cruise

First Mate II handheld night vision camera

M-Series night vision camera

FLIR’s thermal imaging cameras make night vision a reality.

4 Celebrating Our 50th Issue!

KVH’s TracPhone V3 – the world’s smallest maritime VSAT antenna – is the perfect solution for staying in touch while on the water. Designed for boats as small as 30 feet, the TracPhone V3 provides affordable data and phone service, allowing boaters to stay connected to family, friends and the office wherever they go.

This ultra-compact 14.5-inch (37-centimeter) antenna packs a big punch, providing an always-on worldwide mini-VSAT broadband network connection to accommodate high-quality broadband data transfer, integrated voice lines and data speeds up to 2 Mbps. The TracPhone V3’s exclusive ArcLight® spread spectrum technology enables KVH to offer a truly compact, easy-to-install satellite communications system without compromising coverage or data speed.

KVH has teamed up with ViaSat to provide two-way mobile broadcast services from secure teleports around the globe. The network is based on ViaSat’s ArcLight Code Reuse Multiple Access (CRMA) spread spectrum technology, which significantly reduces contention issues, transmission delays and shared transmission bandwidth compared to traditional Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) technology relied upon by other VSAT networks.

The ability to manufacture its own antenna hardware and manage all satellite network operations allows KVH to offer superior quality control and reliable airtime service bolstered by around-the-clock global customer support.

KVH’s mini-VSAT broadband service and TracPhone V3 antenna comprise the first true end-to-end, 14.5-inch VSAT antenna service and support package available to boat owners. With advantages like always-on global broadband service, high-quality voice connections and fast Internet and e-mail access – all with affordable and flexible airtime plans – there’s no need to look any further than KVH. For more information about the

KVH TracPhone V3, go to www.kvh.com/leisure/marine-systems/phone-and-internet.aspx or contact IMS

American at 772-219-4460.

a Compact Communications solution from KVH

Furuno has raised the bar once again for innovation in integrated marine electronics with the introduction of its new NavNet TZtouch touchscreen

technology. The most intuitive user interface on the marine market today, NavNet TZtouch integrates a highly-sensitive, edge-to-edge glass multi-touchscreen. Finger taps, pinches and swipes are instantly transformed into useful actions and commands. From the standard drag and drop, to custom multi-touch gestures that you create, this

instinctive interface will have you up and running in no time. To make operation even easier while underway, Furuno has incorporated an innovative RotoKey™ rotary knob, allowing operators to make adjustments and menu selection using either the touchscreen or the RotoKey. The brains of the NavNet TZtouch system are based in its multifunction display (MFD) units. You can choose from a 9-inch WVGA or 14.1-inch WXGA multi-touch display, depending on your vessel size and need. From there, you can add a variety of components to round out your package. Operators can connect to an existing WiFi network with TZtouch to access both tablet and smartphone apps, as well as Furuno’s free NavCenter Weather Forecasting tool. Another powerful feature is the ability to remotely view and control TZtouch with apps designed for a smartphone and tablet by simply downloading the FREE NavNet Viewer App and the NavNet Remote App from the Apple App Store. The NavNet Remote App allows vessel operators to take full control of their NavNet TZtouch by allowing remote operation of the TZtouch via their Apple mobile device when connected to WiFi. With so many

convenient options, total control is now right at your fingertips with NavNet TZtouch. For more information, go to www.navnet.com or call IMS American at 772-219-4460.

Furuno’s new NavNet tZtouch Puts total Control at Your Fingertips

Product Profile

Keep up with the latest information from ACY at www.americancustomyachts.com. 5

(877) 591-9611 · Florida: (772) 283-2771 · North Carolina: (252) 728-7332 · www.bauschamericantowers.com

Bat NeWsCustom Towers, Hard Tops and Accessories

(above) This 29’ OBX is graced with an eye-catching BAT console tower package with leaning post.

(top left) BAT NC uses a special frame to fabricate half towers for the 23’ Parker line.

(bottom left) BAT outfitted this 38’ Winter with a custom half-tower package with LED stern and running lights.

The 64’ Precision SWAGGER was refitted with a new BAT full tower incorporating the vessel’s existing hard top, complete with tri-color LED dome and spreader lights.

Refit spotlightFlorida Highlights

North Carolina Highlights

BAT’s Florida facility has been busy constructing a series of full towers to accommodate 39’ SeaVee factory boats.

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6 Celebrating Our 50th Issue!

Carlisle & Finch (CF) – the first name in searchlight technology – introduces a revolutionary new microprocessor-based SmartVIEW™ control system that allows any CF searchlight or NightFINDER™

searchlight/camera to be controlled seamlessly from any onboard vessel screen or remote PC in the world via the Internet.

SmartVIEW technology offers a number of distinct benefits when integrated with CF’s joystick-controlled NightFINDER searchlight/night vision camera system, including proportional speed control throughout operation. The speed, aim and beam-size focus functions are all located on a single-hand joystick control, freeing up the other hand to steer the vessel. When you move the joystick gradually, the system operates slowly – move it further, and the operation speed increases. A twist of a knob on the joystick allows for simple adjustments in beam speed and beam-size focus. The SmartVIEW joystick control also allows for intelligent switching to any searchlight on the vessel. This fully-digital control system features RS-232, RS-422 and Ethernet ports on a micro-control board, allowing any vessel computer to access and seamlessly control any number of searchlights. An optional remote Internet control feature allows cameras and searchlights to become IP-addressable and controlled from any remote computer, anywhere in the world via the worldwide web. Designed to enhance nighttime navigation and security – particularly when vision from the bridge may be compromised – CF’s SmartVIEW technology brings a whole new level of control to the vessel operator and owner. For more information, visit www.carlislefinch.com or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

You’ll find innovation at the touch of a button with Icom’s line of fixed-mounted and handheld marine radios. Smart interface design promotes functionality and easy operation with directional keypads, soft-key assignments and full dot matrix displays. Icom’s new user-friendly interface allows users to toggle effortlessly through assignments and critical functions like digital selective calling (DSC).

Icom’s compact IC-M424 fixed-mount radio provides full Class D DSC functionality, allowing for continuous monitoring of one channel while receiving from a different channel. This powerful 25-watt radio features an external 10-watt loudspeaker, along with a built-in PA and foghorn. The IC-M424 is compatible with the Icom MarineCommander™ navigation system, the Icom MA-500TR Class B AIS transponder and the Icom COMMANDMIC™. Utilizing the same intuitive interface design, the optional Icom COMMANDMICIV™ accessory doubles as an intercom and serves as an additional onboard receiving station.

In addition to its intuitive and efficient interface, the IC-M92D handheld radio offers a number of important safety features, including a high-sensitivity, 48-channel GPS receiver, compass and DSC functions, as well as an MOB function to record the position of a “man overboard” incident. For easy overboard retrieval, the floating IC-M92D portable radio sounds a beeping alarm and emits a flashing red LED, a feature of Icom’s “Float ‘n Flash” technology.

The IC-M424 fixed-mount receiver, the IC-M92D handheld radio and the COMMANDMICIV remote-control microphone all possess Icom’s famous quality, durability and functionality. All are IPX7 submersible and utilize Icom’s exclusive AquaQuake™ design to remove water from speaker grills. In addition, up to 90%

of background noise is reduced with built-in active noise cancelling, improving audio on incoming and outgoing calls.

When it comes to reliable communications on the water, Icom is the name to remember. For information on the complete line of Icom

products, go to www.icomamerica.com/marine or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

icom Redefines VHF with smart User interface

Carlisle & Finch introduces smartVieW

Product Profile

Keep up with the latest information from ACY at www.americancustomyachts.com. 7

Icom IC-M424 fixed-mount VHF radio

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A Carlisle & Finch NightFINDER searchlight/night vision camera system with SmartVIEW technology graces the new ACY90 C’EST LA VIE, providing the ultimate in nighttime navigation assistance.

CF’s SmartVIEW microprocessor-based technology is integrated into a simple joystick control.

Work in Progressa sampling of Projects Underway

Sporting new camo transom lettering along with matching mezzanine cushions by American Canvas and Interiors, the 53’ Monterey SUPER CREW is ready to hunt! ACY also installed new covering boards and a new hawse-pipe and provided a hull and top side paint job with Awlcraft 2000.

The popular Islamorada charter boat REEL MCCOY came to ACY for a full paint job and new generators in preparation for the winter sailfish season.

The “doctors” at ACY gave the 90’ Mares motoryacht FIRST BOAT a facelift and a bottom job. The deck and house sides received a color change from blue to white courtesy of Awlgrip, and the bottom was recoated with Sea Hawk Biocop TF™ antifouling paint.

The 81’ Burger SILVER LINING received a full bottom job and new aft bench seating during its visit to ACY.

Making ready for its extended European voyage, ACY added a three-foot transom extension with a stern thruster on the NIKITA, a 71’ custom motoryacht built in New Zealand. Watertight Freeman hatches were installed in the extension to provide access to the steering system. The new extension creates an impressive 110-square-foot recreation platform when combined with the existing swim platform. ACY also added an antibacterial filter to the watermaker system, switched all interior lighting to LED, and gave the vessel a full paint job.

The 64’ Bertram CHAMPAGNE LADY stopped by ACY for bottom maintenance and PropSpeed running gear application to impede marine growth.

8 Celebrating Our 50th Issue!

Keep up with the latest information from ACY at www.americancustomyachts.com. 9

Awlgrip has revolutionized the professional application of marine paint for metal vessels with its advanced zinc chromate-free Controlled Fusion technology – ensuring absolute adhesion between the paint and substrate, while providing superior protection from corrosion. A key component of this system is Awlgrip’s Max Cor CF substrate primer – designed to optimize the performance of any Awlgrip above-the-waterline application, including fairing systems.

Max Cor CF is a two-part anti-corrosive, chromate-free epoxy primer for aluminum and steel that provides excellent chemical and solvent resistance. When coupled with Awlgrip Hullgard Extra Epoxy Primer, Max Cor CF provides the optimum anti-corrosive system. Max Cor CF’s Controlled Fusion technology incorporates a unique chemical system that not only ensures an excellent substrate bond without the need for hazardous chemicals, but also

gives a tightly-fused intercoat layer between Max Cor CF and the next applied coat. Product benefits include a simple mix ratio with no need to sand before over-coating (within 72 hours); a distinctive, opaque color;

and a low VOC, chromate-free formula. The unique Controlled Fusion formula allows the two-part Max Cor CF paint to be dispersed as an aerosol spray, while greatly exceeding standard aerosol primers in terms of performance and finish. Max Cor CF aerosol is ideal for repairs and hard-to-reach areas where a fast and effective solution is required. Awlgrip’s Controlled Fusion technology also extends re-coat times and removes the need for sanding prior to applying the next coat.

If you’re looking for the perfect marine finish for your boat, Awlgrip has the answer. To view the complete line of Awlgrip products, go to www.awlgrip.com. For specific questions about paint application, contact ACY at 772-221-9100.

awlgrip’s Max Cor CF ensures a Perfect Finish

Awlgrip keeps the 101’ Palmer Johnson aluminum motoryacht EXCEL shining.

Compact KeP KCaM Marine Video Camera Offers Outstanding FeaturesKEP Marine – the industry-leading manufacturer of marine sunlight-readable displays and high-quality marine hardware and software products – has added an innovative new two-megapixel high-definition (HD) video camera to its extensive line of marine products.

The new KCAM-IP2HD network camera is the first marine-grade HD camera in its class that can be used day or night, in all weather conditions. The camera operates seamlessly with any PC or network recording system via digital Internet Protocol (IP). The KCAM-IP2HD is ideal for all marine needs – including security, situational awareness and sportfishing applications – delivering advanced features such as built-in video motion detection, onboard video storage, e-mail notification and FTP uploads.

The KCAM-IP2HD features new wide dynamic range (WDR) processing technology for operation in bright and highly-reflective conditions, along with built-in infrared illumination for optimal nighttime performance. The camera captures images at 30 frames per second (fps) in 1080p, full-HD resolution and features a built-in internal memory backup. Designed for the ultimate in functionality and recording performance, the KEP Marine KCAM-IP2HD is housed in a compact brushed aluminum or white casing, built to withstand the demands of the tough marine environment. The KCAM is less than four inches in diameter, weighs one pound and can be easily mounted anywhere on a vessel, including outriggers. A must-

have for serious boaters and fishing enthusiasts, the new KEP KCAM-IP2HD HD camera provides not only convenience and security, but also an opportunity to capture all the action on the water in stunning HD.

For additional information, visit www.kepmarine.com or contact IMS American at 772-219-4460.

Product Profile

Developed as an alternative to tin-based antifouling paints, Sea Hawk’s Biocop TF™ antifouling paint is engineered to provide maximum protection against the harshest of marine elements. Utilizing advanced new PL3 dual-biocide technology and a polymer binder system, Biocop TF produces an engineered biocide coating that leaves no harmful effects on the environment. Biocop TF is a tough, self-polishing antifouling coating promoting longer life and outstanding multi-season performance on fiberglass, steel and aluminum vessels of all sizes. It is considered a top performer among antifouling paints and is safe in salt or fresh water.

American-made for over 30 years, Sea Hawk is a family-owned and operated business with a commitment to excellence and a focus on customer service. Sea Hawk products are made with care and attention to every detail. Each gallon is carefully inspected to meet stringent quality control requirements before it leaves the factory. Sea Hawk’s research and development team takes pride in their never-ending pursuit of excellence, resulting in the development of ever-improving products engineered to solve contemporary problems. Sea Hawk’s rigorous testing and ongoing experimentation with new formulas ensures improved performance and ease of application. From environmentally-friendly solutions to advanced bio-engineered technologies, Sea Hawk consistently creates groundbreaking new products year after year.

For more information, go to www.seahawkpaints.com or contact ACY at 772-221-9100.

American Canvas and Interiors refitted the 58’ Jarrett Bay WHOO DAT with stylish new bridge and mezzanine cushions bearing the vessel’s distinctive fleur-de-lis emblem.

A nearly invisible clear2sea acrylic enclosure was crafted for VAMANOS, a custom 55’ Andy Mortensen open sportfisherman based out of Baker’s Bay, The Bahamas.

The 58’ CHACH, a member of the famed ACY fleet, received some much-deserved sun protection with this full cockpit cover.

(772) 221-9100 · Fax: (772) 288-4993 · Cell: (772) 260-9090 · www.americancanvasandinteriors.com

aCi NeWsExperts in Canvas and Upholstery

Biocop tF is tough on elements, easy on environment

Product Profile

Upon completion of a full bottom paint with Sea Hawk Biocop TF, Captain Jeff Yanora, a longtime ACY customer, gives the boot stripe a polish on the 98’ Burger LADY CATEE.

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10 Celebrating Our 50th Issue!

ACY Vessels in the News

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Team FREEDOM has been red-hot on the water since winning the 33rd Annual Bacardi Rum Billfish Tournament last spring out of Port Lucaya, The Bahamas. The ACY65 FREEDOM, captained by Albert Miller with crew members Jimmy Brasher and Tommy Farella, took top boat honors in this prestigious tournament with Ross Chouest named top angler, releasing a blue marlin, three white marlin and three sailfish. In late May, Captain Albert guided FREEDOM to victory again in the Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic out of Venice, LA, weighing in a monster 744-pound blue marlin – the third largest ever caught off the Louisiana coast. FREEDOM continued its quest in the Fourchon Oilman’s Tournament in July, fishing out of Golden Meadow, LA with ACY head honcho Dom LaCombe at the helm. Team FREEDOM earned top bluewater boat overall with two blue marlin releases, along with the second place billfish release award; first, second and fourth place awards for yellowfin tuna; and second and third place awards for blackfin tuna. Anglers in Fourchon included Damon Chouest, Buster Hawthorne, Lee Bouziga and Reggie Ledet, assisted by crew members Carlos Hernandez and Matt Coppoletta.

FReeDOM turns on the Heat

With a finish that was truly “down to the wire,” Team BLACK GOLD clinched their victory in the last few minutes of the final day of the 2012 BVI Billfish Tournament out of Virgin Gorda. After releasing two blue marlin earlier in the day, BLACK GOLD reported that they were hooked up again at 2:01 p.m. Unlike the earlier blues, this one, estimated at over 600 pounds, required a bit more time and effort to subdue. Angler Harry Sargeant fought the big blue for one hour and forty minutes before releasing the fish with only nineteen minutes remaining on the tournament clock. This was BLACK GOLD’s eighth blue of the three-day tournament, placing them solidly on top of the leaderboard.

BLaCK GOLD takes BVi tourney

Following a long-held family tradition that began over three decades ago with Edison Chouest captaining the original C’EST LA VIE with grandsons Dino, Damon and Ross in the cockpit, the new ACY90 C’EST LA VIE returned to Louisiana in late July to fish the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo. This time it was Ross, his nephew Alex Chouest and family friends in the cockpit with Captain Albert Miller at the helm. The new C’EST LA VIE rekindled the family tradition with Ross lassoing first place with a 541-pound blue marlin and Matthew Bourg taking top honors in the tag and release category for blue marlin and yellowfin tuna.

C’est La Vie Upholds tradition

Matt grabbed the leader on our eighth blue of the day!” Alex had not only earned a new boat record for the CHACH, but also a place in the history books rivaled by few anglers of any age. But, perhaps the most important accomplishment was stated best by Miller: “One thing for sure is that Alex, on that day, claimed a spot in his family’s fishing legacy that makes everyone very, very proud.” The next day, Alex was joined by his nine-year-old brother, Max, who released his first blue marlin aboard CHACH. There is no doubt that these two brothers are destined to make an impact on the future of sportfishing. An equally impressive Chouest family milestone was reached near the end of the St. Thomas fishing season with angler Damon Chouest releasing his 700th career Atlantic blue marlin, and Team CHACH racking up 114 for the season. On top of this remarkable achievement, Damon was recognized as the runner-up angler in the 2012 USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament with CHACH winning the shootout on the final day.

CHACH ... Continued from page 1

Team CHACH celebrates some big numbers – (left to right) Damon Chouest, Dave Dalfo and Matt Coppoletta.

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDWEST PALM BCH, FL

PERMIT NO. 19466800 S.W. Jack James Drive · Stuart, FL 34997

COMING IN OUR NEXT ISSUE TAKE A TOUR OF THE C’EST LA VIE

This feature answers commonly asked questions posed to ACY regarding boat construction, maintenance and repair. Please fax your question to 772-288-4993, or e-mail it to info@acyinc.com, in care of the “Yacht Doctors©.” If your question is selected, we’ll send you an ACY T-shirt. (To protect your privacy, your name will not be used.) The doctors are always in!

Q: I recently purchased a motoryacht that has accumulated many layers of bottom paint over the years. There is really no telling how many coats have been applied. I’m concerned not only that the boat is carrying a lot of extra weight, but also that there could be some issues hiding beneath all that paint. Can you suggest the best method of removing multiple layers of paint down to the bare hull?

A: The condition of your hull affects the fuel economy, safety and structural integrity of your vessel. It is very important to keep your hull free of marine growth and bottom paint buildup. A number of methods exist for removing accumulated layers of antifouling paint down to the bare hull with varying degrees of success. Sand blasting and grinding can result in damaged gel coat. Chemical stripping and sanding are time-consuming, tedious and often

ineffective. Soda blasting leaves a smooth hull surface, but leaves bottom paint around the waterline that requires a second grinding and cleaning to ensure proper adhesion. We have achieved excellent results with a system called Eco Strip that employs a unique low-pressure slurry blast applied through a finely-tuned nozzle. Eco Strip is capable of completely

removing surface coatings on any size vessel, right down to the bare hull. This environmentally-friendly system is safe on all hull surfaces, including fiberglass, aluminum and steel, as well as running gear and wood parts, leaving surfaces ready for proper paint application.

With fuel prices continuing to rise, the extra weight of multiple coats of bottom paint and running gear buildup is a real concern. Eco Strip is a simple, practical solution to increase your vessel’s performance and fuel economy. To learn more about Eco Strip, go to www.ecostripusa.com or contact American Custom Yachts at 772-221-9100.

ask the Yacht Doctors©

American Custom Yachts is very pleased to welcome the newest member of the LaCombe family. Dylan Layton LaCombe was born July 29 to proud parents Jennifer and Dominick Jr. While

just now beginning to crawl, there’s no doubt this little fellow will have his sea legs in no time.

aCY Welcomes the Newest LaCombe

Design & Production by AMG Creative

Managing Editor .....................................................Chris ShultzArt & Editorial Director ............................ Jennifer LaCombeEditorial Support .............................................Monica FalgoutPhotography ............................................................Chris Shultz

editor’s Box

Celebrating Our 50th Issue! 12

Don’t forget to visit the American Family of Companies at the 2013 Miami International Boat Show, February 14-18. ACY, BAT and ACI will be exhibiting at booth 2213 in the Big Game Room on the second floor of the Miami Beach Convention Center, and IMS will be located on the first floor of the Convention Center in the electronics room, booth 1693.

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