A BOAT which doubles as a caravan now has a new powerplant at its heart.

The innovative Vacationer 240 combines the sea worthiness and performance of a small cruiser with the space and versatility of a pop-top caravan.

After a day on the water, the craft can easily be hauled onto a trailer and towed to a caravan park for a comfortable stay on dry land.

Now, following widespread interest in Southbeach Boats’ Vacationer 240, the company has announced a new inboard version.

General manager Ken Blacklock said the new inboard model had been developed to meet evolving market conditions. "The new Vacationer 240 I/B is powered by a compact 120 HP, 1.7L turbo-charged Mercruiser diesel that combines crisp performance with outstanding economy," he said.

At its designed cruising speed of 22 knots, the boat's 150 litre tank is expected to give a range exceeding 700km. Top speed is expected to be in excess of 30 knots.

Mr Blacklock said the existing outboard-powered Vacationer was appealing to a wide cross section of boating and touring enthusiasts.

"The concept can be compared to a pop-top caravan,” he explained. "Prior to launching, electric motors raise the top to create a protective cover from bow to stern. Clear side covers are then easily rolled down and snapped into place as required.

"When the boat is being trailed or stored, the roof retracts to fit snugly around the coaming. This greatly reduces windage while being trailed and secures the boat against dirt, damage and pilferage while being stored."

The Vacationer is a spacious boat with ample room for fishing and comfortable weekend camping. It will appeal to active Australian families and retirees wishing to combine short live-aboard holidays with the convenience of an affordable trailable boat.

"With its rear steps providing easy access while the boat is on its trailer, the Vacationer can easily double as a caravan," Mr Blacklock said.

The boat is approved to carry up to 10 adults and will comfortably sleep four overnight. A fully-equipped galley includes a two-burner gas cooktop and BBQ and there is provision for two cooler boxes or a portable refrigerator.

Other luxuries include a fresh water shower, toilet/change room, a four-speaker sound system with DVD and a large swim platform attached to the transom. Generous storage makes it an ideal boat for holiday adventures.

The Vacationer 240 I/B, which costs from $97,500, is designed and built in Australia and can be legally towed on Australian roads without a wide load towing permit.

Southbeach Boats is a family-owned boat-building company based on the Gold Coast. The company has been designing and building hand crafted timber and fibreglass boats since 1997.

For more information, contact Southbeach Boats on 07 5522 1248.

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