forefoot with a sharper deadrise angle ensures it cuts more easily
through the waves for a softer ride. Three steps rather than two
gives a fl atter, more effi cient drive while slightly wider chines make
it more tolerant of different fuel loadings. A 1400-litre fuel tank
gives a theoretical range of 330nm at 40 knots and 400nm at 30.
The prototype was built using an all-carbon-fi bre hull to
maximise performance but the vinylester resin with localised
carbon reinforcement used in the production version claims
to give a softer, quieter ride than the light but noisy, unforgiving
prototype. “A little bit of extra weight actually helps,” says Watts.
Four Ullman Echelon suspension seats add a fi nal layer of defence
against larger lumps and bumps.
Sporty but predictable handling with good low-speed
manoeuvrability was also a major focus for the team. The
stabilising sponsons generate enormous cornering grip and
prevent it spinning out during high-speed turns (another vice
some surface-drive boats are prone to), but reducing their size
and depth has also allowed more lean into the turns for a natural,
more progressive cornering feel.PARTY PLATFORM
It’s not all about hull tuning though. The BR45 also needs to
deliver as an entertaining platform once you’ve reached your
destination. Electric drop-down side windows, independent
air conditioning, a large sunpad at the stern and opposing
benches with a clip-in table ensure the fun doesn’t stop when
the engines do. The swim platform features a natty electric
bathing ladder and a pull-out shower, while there’s storage
for a couple of battery-powered folding GoCycle bikes in the
engineroom. Down below is a small galley and separate heads
compartment, a good-sized dinette and two double berths –
one in the bow and one tucked under the cockpit. And thanks
to permanent foam fendering all around the hull, there’s no
need for bulky infl atable fenders.
This level of performance and
sophistication doesn’t come cheap –
around £1.2 million ex VAT – but then
none of its key rivals offer the convenience
and effi ciency of diesel power with the
pace and handling of a thoroughbred
raceboat. The fi rst one has already
been delivered to the owner of a large
superyacht with the second due
to be fi nished any day now. After
all, if the old BR35 was good
enough for David Beckham,
the new Bladerunner 45 should
be good enough for anyone.
Contact http://www.icemarine.comTHE DATA
SPECIFICATIONS
LENGTH 44ft 11in 13.7m
BEAM 13ft 9in 4.2m
DRAFT 2ft 11in 0.9m
WEIGHT 9,500kg (lightship)
FUEL CAPACITY 1,400 litres
WATER CAPACITY 250 litres
ENGINES Triple 370hp
Volvo D6
MAX SPEED 50 knots
PRICE FROM £1.2m ex VATBRIT PACKThe four Ullman suspension
seats are supplemented by
more sociable opposing benches
The open-plan cabin has a double
berth in the bow and under the cockpit
as well as a proper heads compartment