Chris Connell News

Diverse Projects' latest vessel Black Pearl was launched on 29 December in Whangarei. Pre-dawn rituals of Takahi (Maori waka launch traditions) and a blessing ceremony started at 5am, followed by the actual launch just before high tide at approximately 2pm. The Diverse Projects team of contractors will now complete finishing touches to the interior of the boat and commence sea trials and system commissioning. Celebrations for the official handover and christening will be held in Auckland on January 22, before the vessel heads off on her maiden voyage in February 2011.

Diverse Projects' Build Project 08 was recently transported overland from its construction facility at Profab Engineering in Palmerston North, to Napier. It was one of New Zealand’s largest ever over land yacht movements. Diverse Projects took on the challenge in keeping with their virtual shipyard approach, moving projects between facilities to achieve best outcomes overall in both quality and value, an approach similar to that of larger European yards. Tranzcarr Heavy Haulage moved the vessel over three nights, beginning Oct. 18.

Build Project 08 is currently under construction at Profab Central Engineering Ltd in Palmerston North, New Zealand. The hull was successfully rolled over in October, and the superstructure is now taking shape. Stage two of the program, interior, paintwork and finishing details will later take place in Whangarei, New Zealand. BP08’s sleek lines were designed by Craig Loomes Design Group. The 103.3 ft passagemaker is being built to Germanischer Lloyd 100 A5 class and New Zealand MSA survey. With Twin Caterpillar C18 ACERT 600HP engines, she will cruise at 12.5 knots.