With upwards of 1,500 amphibious craft delivered to customers in more than 50 countries, Sealegs knows its niche market quite well. Like traditional boat buyers who keep stepping up in size, its buyers want to continue enjoying sea-to-land excursions seamlessly. Therefore, the Sealegs 12RC, a 39-foot (12-meter) model, is the company’s newest, and largest, production-built amphibious craft.
Sealegs International sought input not just from engineers and naval architects, but also Sealegs owners for the design. The new model combines the water and land capabilities of amphibious craft with the comfort and convenience of a cabin-equipped boat. In fact, the “RC” in “Sealegs 12RC” means Cabin RIB. A host of options exist for that cabin, too. For example, you can enjoy dual electrically retractable sunroofs, a head, a dining area, a galley, and even four berths. Up to nine passengers can take advantage of a boarding platform, retractable via push button, too.
One customer has already commissioned a Sealegs 12RC. Additionally, the company says, more inquiries have come in, with deliveries starting in 2021. We don’t know what the first customer has requested in terms of layout. Regardless, that owner and guests will enjoy promising performance. The Sealegs 12RC should see a top speed in the water close to 40 knots, with twin 400-hp engines. Twin 300-hp engines are available as well. On land, meanwhile, Sealegs’ own technology drives hydraulic wheel motors for a reported 5-mph (8-kph) speed. The company has used this same technology in recreational and commercial applications, including for three custom craft for Pennicott Wilderness Journeys in Australia. Pennicott conducts tours off Wilsons Promontory National Park in Victoria.
David McKee Wright, Sealegs’ CEO, is pleased to see “strong and growing demand in the recreational markets around the world.” He adds that customers “want all their future boating to be amphibious, regardless of craft size.”
Sealegs sealegs.com
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