2003 Sydney International Boat Show
press release...
Access Boat Project at the Sydney Boat Show
18th July 2003
The Leisure Boating Club concept brings access to luxury sports cruisers within reach of the average family. Most modern sports boats however are designed with narrow stern doors and stepped cabins, limiting access for those with physical disabilities.
The Leisure Boating Club Pittwater's Access Boat Project plans to custom build a vessel, specifically designed to include features such as:
* Safe, easy wheelchair access from port or starboard
* A helm position that allows the boat to be operated from a wheelchair
* A large, flat deck area with a number of wheelchair lockdown points
* A private, accessible head and shower on the main deck level
* A galley on the main deck level
The boat will most likely be based on a catamaran design of about 30 feet in length although the concept is yet to be released to a number of Australian boat manufacturers for their consideration and design input.
The boat will be brought into service as part of the Leisure Boating Club Pittwater's fleet operating from The Quay's Marina, Church Point. The Club offers a five star walk-on walk-off hassle free service and is an ideal alternative to boat ownership.
Club members using the Access Boat will require a Waterways general licence to operate a powerboat and will receive full training on the operation of the vessel. If confined to a wheelchair, a helper will also be trained to assist as a deckhand and skipper the vessel when required.
The boat design will follow the luxury standards of existing boats in the Club fleet with a number of options to optimise the enjoyment of members, their families and guests:
* Rear deck BBQ
* Sunroof
* Hot showers
* Entertainment centre
* Swim platform and dive ladder
* Limited overnight accommodation
Simply, the aim of the Access Boat Project is to allow anyone who suffers from a physical disability the opportunity to enjoy the pleasures of luxury boating on Pittwater. See the Leisure Boating Club Pittwater Access Project on the Sydney International Boat Show Marina July 31 to August 5 or call Wayne Higgins on 9979 4200.