Townsend Bay Launches First in Series

Townsend Bay Marine (TBM) has launched the first in a series of 73-ft. SportBoats. Built for an overseas client to be used as a diveboat, the boat exceeded contract requirements and can reach 50 knots with a pair of MTU power plants driving Lips waterjets. The vessel is the first ever to make use of the new Lips composite jetdrives, which save weight and promise lower maintenance cost.

"We are very pleased with the performance of the boat and her propulsion package," stated Paul Zeusche, TBM general manager. "The waterjets make an exciting package for all boating conditions, including those in the Northwest where floating debris often threatens traditional screw installations." Zeusche noted that TBM has already begun construction of a second SportBoat for a U.S. client.