Tidelines

CONFIDENT KIWIS

The six-boat Auckland M-Class fleet to defend the Historical 18-foot Open World Championship and the Australian Championship are in Sydney being prepared for a rail trip to Brisbane. The championships will be sailed from Monday, April 26 to Monday, May 3. The Kiwi boats are Masquerade, Marquita, Mystery, Maverick, Mahina and Mach One. Marine historian and M-Class stalwart Robin Elliott says the team is confident of bringing both trophies back to New Zealand.

QUINTREX STATESIDE

The Australian aluminium boatbuilder Quintrex has moved into its new US$5 million ($7.6 million) United States headquarters in South Carolina to launch into the American market. Production of its fishing boat line will begin immediately at the 30,000sq m facility near Charleston. The company plans a variety of boats for both fresh-water and saltwater fishing, with a production target of 350 to 400 craft in the first year. The range will feature fishing boats and centre consoles, including bow-riders and utilities from 3.5m to 7m.

FUEL-CELL YACHT

The Canadian Hydrogenics Corporation has won a contract to supply fuel-cell systems to HaveBlue, the California operation engaged in the development of hydrogen-based technology for marine applications. The Hydrogenics HyPM 10 will be a key component of a regenerative fuel-cell system that will propel a 13m Catalina yacht and supply on-board needs including lights, navigation and galley appliances. The company plans to introduce a "limited edition" fuel-cell powered yacht next year.

WATER-WATCH

The Flying 15 Auckland Championships will be raced out of the Royal Akarana Yacht Club this weekend. Other activity:

Saturday: Club championships, the Round-Rangitoto race and Classics (RNZYS); Cruising race to Coromandel (RAYC).

Saturday and Sunday: ff15 Auckland championships (RAYC).

Sunday: Closing day (Richmond YC); His and Hers race (Panmure YBC).

* Clubs and organisations planning events in or on the Waitemata or Manukau Harbours should register well in advance with the Auckland Regional Council Customer Service Centre on (09) 366 2000. The 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.

* Editorial inquiries to Robin Bailey by email or phone 09 524 4572