The highly publicized Strand Craft Wet Rod PWC is finally being built—and might just star in some Hollywood movies.
We initially wrote about the Wet Rod last July. Back then, Kurt Strand, owner of Strand Craft, told us that production would soon begin, for a late 2014 launch date. Today, he revealed that Dutch Shipyard and Mulder Design are bringing the Wet Rod to life. He tells us the long delay is primarily due to waiting for the engine manufacturers to supply specifications when requested.
The Wet Rod will be powered by a 330-hp V8 TDI gasoline engine from Volkswagen Marine, with an optional 370-hp V8 TDI engine from the same supplier. A waterjet will be standard either way. Strand Craft says the more powerful V8 will allow the Wet Rod to hit more than 80 mph (120 kph). That’s faster than was predicted last summer: 65 mph.
The LOA of the Wet Rod remains the same: 16 feet (4.9 meters). Also unchanged are the features. A waterproof stowage hatch forward can hold personal items plus snorkeling and dive gear. Beneath the seat lies a drinks icebox. You can further request a variety of options. These include trims and inlays like wood or carbon fiber, various paint colors, an iPhone or iPad dock, a GPS, and/or a stereo. Strand Craft will even supply a custom trailer for the Wet Rod should you so wish.
Pricing starts at €45,000 (about $53,200 at press time).
As for the Hollywood role for the Wet Rod, Kurt Strand is keeping full details close to the vest. However, he does say that the PWCs will appear in an unnamed four-film series. The first movie will debut at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. He adds that three different Hollywood productions have requested using the PWC, too.
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