When Anthony and Jodi Heeney, owners of Port Jet Cruises, set out to find the best engines for his newly custom-built Ocean Rider, one option stood out – the Mercury 350hp V10 SeaPro.
Port Jet’s Ocean Rider, powered by triple Mercury 350hp V10 SeaPros
He rigged the new vessel with a triple outboard setup and didn’t stop there, also upgrading his older Wave Rider with triple 300hp V8 SeaPros.
Located in Port Macquarie, where his boats are used for a variety of water activities – including whale watching, ocean rides, dolphin spotting and scenic sunset cruises – these vessels are designed to tackle the tough conditions of the open seas.
“We have a coastal bar we need to navigate before getting out to the open sea, and it can be tough at times. That’s why we need engines that can handle those conditions,” Anthony said.
“When crossing the bar, for the safety of everyone, including the boat, speed is essential along with torque to enter and exit through the bar safely.
“Out of all the engines I’ve used, the Mercurys have been the best, especially the V10.”
With summer approaching, Heeney Water Sports – trading as Port Jet Cruisers – is gearing up for a busy season. During the Christmas holidays, Port Jet run on average four trips a day, which means they need motors capable of handling tough conditions consistently.
“The SeaPros offer a significant advantage as they are both economical and powerful, delivering plenty of torque,” Anthony said.
“Considering that the three V10 motors must need to be powerful enough to carry 24 passengers, two crew members, and 1,000 litres of fuel, they reach the necessary speeds quickly.”
With a remarkably low fuel consumption of just 77 litres per hour at a cruising speed of 25 knots, it offers exceptional efficiency for longer journeys.
“Another key feature is their smooth and quiet operation compared to other outboards, which is particularly important when running multiple tours a day,” Anthony said.
“We operate in challenging conditions, and the ocean can be tough on the outboards, so we need motors that can handle everything we throw at them, while supporting our operation.”
Port Jet need motors capable of handling tough conditions consistently
To build the Ocean Rider, Anthony sought the expertise of Jason Carroll, founder of Grove Maine Fabrication and Primal Craft. Jason’s skills were essential in creating a larger boat that could accommodate more passengers, aligning perfectly with Anthony’s vision and needs.
“When Anthony came to me and said he wanted the V10 SeaPros to power the boat, I originally thought they were going to be underpowered, but it wowed us all,” Jason said.
“The boat was designed to do 40 knots, but it well and truly exceeded this and our expectations, pushing 49 knots.”
As part of the boat build, Jason made several custom specifications and adjustments to ensure it would meet Port Jet’s needs for both power and manoeuvrability.
“I have built many boats, and this one is right up there,” Jason said.
“CNC Marine, who designed the boat, and I played around with the pitch of the boat to make it higher and stepped up the hull which makes it capable of turning sharply for such a big boat.
“It turns like a go-kart, not like a big vessel. It’s very nimble for its size, length and weight.”
At nine tonnes full-loaded Jason said the boat can turn 180 degrees at 35 knots, along with get from zero to 49 knots in roughly 21 seconds. It was also designed effectively to direct water away from the front, ensuring that passengers stay dry and comfortable.
The boat is a result of a collaborative effort, designed by CNC Marine, with all electronics and engine rigging completed by Rogers Marine and Jason. Macquarie Signs wrapped the boat, Beaurtrex Seats supplied the seating, while Stern First Inflatables installed the wings on the Rib.
To protect the hull from saltwater damage and simplify cleaning and servicing, Anthony also installed a boat lift from Aqua Lift Boats. For all the servicing and maintenance of these outboards Port Jet goes to Thwaites Marine.
Find out more about Mercury’s SeaPro range here.
