Electrifying launch highlights local supplier’s commitment to service

Celebrating 75 years of service

SOUTH AFRICA: As a long standing Yanmar agent, Seascape Marine Services is benefiting from the Japanese engine manufacturer’s introduction of their latest innovation to the marine world – the E-Saildrive.

The E-Saildrive represents Yanmar’s determination to provide an electric propulsion product designed to provide an easy transition to emission-free sailing.

“We are extremely fortunate to work with a company like Yanmar because they are at the forefront of green technology development. And we are assured that when they release these updates there won’t be any issues,” says James De Jong Director of Seascape Marine Services.

Currently celebrating their 75^th anniversary as a service provider to the maritime industry, De Jong says it is their focus to partner with brand leaders such as Yanmar that have helped the company capitalise on the success of the local boatbuilding industry.

Seascape’s association with Yanmar has also served to establish their reputation to handle other complementary international maritime brands. The company has steadily added significant products to their inventory since 2005 including Hamilton Jet, Kohler Generators, Zipwak, Cox diesel outboards, Halyard, Neander D, Exalto and Eliche Radice.

“As an accredited service provider, customers know that they can contact us and we provide support throughout Africa,” he adds.

De Jong believes that Yanmar’s approach to the robust development process means that their loyal client base is content to wait for well-tested new technology from the OEM rather than opting for quick-to-market alternatives.

Launched globally at Cannes Yachting Festival and Newport International Boat Show, the E-Saildrive range relies on a ‘plug and play’ platform for easy installation and connection. This, combined with an integrated gear, motor, motor controller, and cooling system, makes the switch to 100% electric boating easier and quicker.

The E-Saildrive is available in three models – the SDe7, the SDe10 and the SDe15, delivering up to 15kW of power for sailboats under 40ft (depending on application and displacement). With no hull modifications needed – the drive is a drop-in replacement for a Yanmar YM engine making it easy for the boatbuilder to offer interchangeably or introduce an SDe refit.

A new control system matches the advancements of the E-Saildrive. The display unit is a bright and colourful 4.3” optically bonded TFT display with IPX7 waterproof rating, and anti-fog coating. Control heads are available as a side mount or top mount with a modern alloy design.

With minimal maintenance compared to a combustion engine and access to the existing Yanmar global support network of 2,000 distributors and dealers in over 130 countries, it offers a solution for those new to boating and the more experienced sailor.

De Jong, who has been at the forefront of the growth of the company over the last two decades emphasises Seascape’s ability to keep vessels running through routine maintenance, inspections and overhauls.