When Rob Joblin decided it was time to upgrade his boat the choice of boat builders was a given. “Real Image” had performed so well and was at the heart of many fishing tales and family memories. A bit of a covid blip saw the dream delayed but January 2024 “On the Job” really was on the job. Taking extended family and friends on its maiden voyage to Fiordland. Rachel Joblin gives a great summary of the trip – sandflies and all – on the facing page.
But what about the boat build itself ?
“The Specs”
LOA 8.8m; Beam 2.8
Hull 6mm; transom 6mm; sides 4mm 17 deg deadrise
4 Rod Holders on gunnel
Boarding ladder & platform Trim tabs
Lined cabin & wheelhouse
Sliding side windows 4 cup holders on bulwarks
Cage around back with rod holders Bait board
Ladder on side of wheelhouse Seating
Tread deck on bulwarks and bonnet
Walk through transoms VHF
Electronics NSS12 evo3S HALO24 Radar
SS175H-W – Stainless Steel 1kW High-Wide-CHIRP Through Hull Depth/ Temperature Transducer. SS175L – Stainless Steel 1kW Low-CHIRP Through Hull Depth/Temperature Transducer.
Minn Kota – an electric motor which keeps you anchored by GPS – so no anchor required- it always keeps head to the wind
Motors
Twin DF 200 APX
Extras 1 X 600 Litre fuel tank
1 X 300 litre fuel tank Winch
Bunk bed
Fridge
Freezer installed under the seats – extending trip duration and allowing fish to be stored Kitchen joinery Stereo & Speakers Rocket Launcher with additional rod holders Shower cubicle with toilet, califont and rose Oven
Stretch wheelhouse
2.4m inside Table
Custom built Image Boats Trailer, Heavy Duty Under water lights Water tank 200L Live Bait Tank Black Water Tank Cage around transom with ladder
Solar Panels & Charger Splash Back Bi-fold Doors Outriggers Tuna Tubes
Small generator under seat so two 40V sources on board so that vacuum packing of fish and other activities could happen.
Boat roof extends unsupported over fishing area – great for shelter in all weathers
Image Boats Ltd, 24 Bay Road, Invercargill (03) 214 4573
M: 0274 368 055
