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The
Piston Engine Aircraft Committee says that 33 percent of pilots own a
powerboat and 37 percent of them fish, while another 27 percent scuba
dive. This information has prompted one company to combine flying and
boating into one vessel called the Centaur.
This
plane/boat comes from Warrior (Aero-Marine). Unlike traditional seaplanes
that have an aluminum structure, the Centaur is built of corrosion-resistant
carbon fiber and fiberglass. Warrior says this makes it more corrosion-resistant
in a saltwater environment.
The
craft’s narrow hull is said to be based on those used by high-performance
yachts and so should create less hydrodynamic resistance in boat mode
and during takeoff. Warrior adds that the hull design allows for more
fuel capacity, which should give Centaur long-range flying capabilities.
Yet there’s still room for six passengers and a 14-foot canoe, in
case you want to do some paddling when you land. If not, you can just
lay out and catch some rays, cast a line, or go diving. Pricing for the
Centaur starts at $525,000.
Warrior
(Aero-Marine) Phone: (207) 885-9920. www.centaurseaplane.com.
Is
there something you would like to know more about or see PMY put
to the test? Write: Latest & Greatest, Power & Motoryacht, 260
Madison Ave., 8th Fl., New York, NY 10016. Fax: (917) 256-2282. e-mail:
patrick_sciacca@primediamags.com.
No phone calls, please.
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