FF2100 Hybrid Revealed at the 2015 Melbourne Boat Show

Thursday 11 June 2015

While the allure of fishing far offshore appeals to some, recent marine industry surveys reveal that the majority of boaties who enjoy wetting a line, prefer to do so within sight of land. These fishing nomads that populate the rivers, estuaries, lakes, harbours and bays of Oz are no less intrepid than the offshore junkies. They endure early mornings and freezing temperatures on exposed trout lakes such as Jindabyne and all-night mulloway expeditions on Victoria’s Western Port. They trek along vast river systems such as the Hawkesbury and explore near-shore islands such as Rottnest off the coast of WA. These inshore fisher folk aren’t all that interested in chasing tuna or billfish – but rather focus their efforts on more accessible, but no less challenging bread and butter species such as snapper, bream, whiting, flathead; the list goes on.

So when the suggestion of a compact fishing-cruiser hybrid was mooted, there were many opinions sought. The FF2100 is the result of that consultation: a comfortable alternative to cold tinnies and sparse fibreglass fishing boats. Something that could handle serious slop, provide shelter when the weather turned and had enough clever storage to hide all the gear fisher folk accumulate.

Surprisingly, the new model evolved out of Whittley Marine’s Cruiser range, not their award winning SL (Sea Legend) fishing series. At just over 6m in overall length and sporting a generous 19^o deadrise, the FF2100 is a very capable big bay boat that handles nasty stretches of water like Morton Bay, Port Phillip and Sydney Harbour in its stride. Powered by an economical 200hp Volvo Penta V6 petrol sterndrive mated to a Duoprop drive, instant holeshot is guaranteed while the prodigious torque means the FF2100 will also double as a handy tow-sport boat when the bite slows down. Traditional flushing of the engine is rendered all but obsolete with the standard inclusion of Volvo’s Penta’s integrated Nutra-Salt Flushing System which allows the engine to be flushed at the push of a button, before your leave the boat ramp - in a mere 45 seconds.

The FF2100’s flexible interior converts from luxury living quarters to fishing workstation with the simple flip of the seat bolsters. Flush mounted tackle lockers store terminal tackle while larger items such as rods and fishing tools are also accommodated. Rod holders and a compact baitboard are also on the standard equipment list.

An ergonomic helm incorporates a full complement of gauges, digital switching, marine radio and Fusion stereo while a Raymarine Dragonfly6 combo unit takes care of the fish finding and navigational duties.  Low voltage LED cockpit lighting illuminates the work zone at night, while underwater lights add ambience and attract bait fish.

The new camper covers have been re-engineered to fold away from the fishing cockpit, no longer requiring it to be removed before you begin casting. A rear platform with integrated utility bar is perfect as a casting deck or dive platform but also functions as an alfresco dinette when the optional stainless steel barbeque is installed. Up forward, the convertible V-berth quickly converts to a generous bed, while a convenient chemical toilet hides below an upholstered bunk infill.

With the imminent release of the Fish Finder (FF)2100, Whittley challenges the perception of what a fishing boat should be and explores the notion of what a fishing boat could be. Conceived for the fishing family with a wanderlust, this versatile all-rounder offers live-aboard comfort in a surprisingly compact budget-friendly package. It’s compact enough to store at home, stealthy enough to sneak up a shallow creek, yet sturdy enough to handle the punishment Mother Nature can dish out.” 

With an impressive array standard features and unique Meridian Blue exterior and tan vinyl interior, the FF2100 will be released at an introductory price of $69,999 inclusive of drive-on Mackay trailer, safety gear and registration and personal on water handover.

Key features and benefits include:

• Integrated Tackle Storage means a place for everything and less stuff underfoot to get in your way
• Integrated Rear Casting/ Diving Platform enhances useable space and versatility
• Comfy Double Berth for overnight fishing trips and extended adventures away
• Standard Hidden Toilet means never having to cut your trip short if nature calls
• Plumbed Freshwater System to keep you and your gear refreshed
• Convertible Camper Back with Overhead Rod Rack for fun times away regardless of the weather

The FF2100…perfectly evolved to thrive in its environment.

About Whittley Marine

Whittley Marine is a third-generation Australian boat builder based in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. It is a family owned and operated company that that has focussed its resources on providing high quality boats to boating families since 1953. An innovator within the industry, Whittley’s award winning range of family cruisers and fishing boats reflect its desire to offer versatile solutions that can be enjoyed all year round – A Boat for All Seasons.

For further information on Whittley Marine’s FF2100, please contact:

Angelo San Giorgio
Director of Operations and Strategy
Whittley Marine Group
P: 0427 717 953
E: angelo@whittley.com.au
W: whittley.com.au

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