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nternational Marine is one of Australia’s oldest
and largest manufacturers of fibreglass boats,
but is better known as Caribbean Boats. Based
in Melbourne, it has been manufacturing boats
since 1958 under several brands including the
USA-designed Bertram.
In the late 1980s International Marine went its own way and
rebranded as Caribbean and has now built more than 60,000 boats.
The range is extensive – from a 16-foot (4.88m) offshore runabout
to the massive 49-foot (14.77m) flybridge cruiser.
In New Zealand the brand is perhaps best known for the mid-
range sportfishers and cruisers – it has a reputation for luxurious
and well-constructed boats.
The 2400 hardtop sits right in the middle of that range and has
been in production since 2000. This hull has achieved considerable
success in Australia with the Mercruiser petrol-powered sterndrive
option. The alternative propulsion option – single or twin outboards- has also proved very popular.
But the new Volkswagen-based Mercruiser TDi diesel option,
with a V6 common-rail engine developing 260hp, is more suited to
the New Zealand market. Scott White, co-owner of Caribbean Boats
NZ, says the company’s had great success with the 24 Fly bridge
Sportsfisher with the same engine package, so this powerplant was a
‘must’ when they were spec’ing the hardtop configuration.
The greater range this provides, and our favourable pump prices,
both make diesel power the preferred option for Kiwis who are
serious about their fishing and cruising. This also contributes to
better resale value.
At 7.2m LOA (about 8.4m with bowsprit and swim platform) the
2400 is a viable towing proposition, with the 2.7m beam allowing
daytime towing with the appropriate flags. Although the towing
weight is a touch over three tonnes, the Mackay sensor-braked
tandem trailer handles this with ease. We organised to have a play in
the waters off Raglan, and White had no trouble towing her over the
hills from Hamilton.
Down at the historic Raglan wharf, the beautiful finish of the
brilliant white hull was immediately apparent. Black pinstripes
along the waterline add a classy touch, and the gleaming stainless
work offsets the black drop-down sides.
Somewhat unusually in this size boat was a bow thruster tucked
below the waterline, but with the tide ripping past the wharf this
I
At 7.2m LOA with a towing weight a
touch over three tonnes, the Caribbean
2400 is a serious towing proposition –
but that’s quickly forgotten when she
slides into the water.