Yanmar Power Fuels Kokuru's Incredible Comeback Story
Nobody said owning a boat is plain sailing. As has been the case with the Kokuru - a classic 12-metre launch that calls Pine Harbour home. Under its previous owners, Koruru underwent a complete top-to-bottom restoration. The result: an immaculately presented launch brimming with character.
Unfortunately, this return to glory was fleeting. Only a month after this labour of love was completed, disaster struck when a neighbouring boat in Pine Harbour Marina caught fire, before drifting into the path of the Koruru, setting it alight.
Allister Spick at Marine Diesel Solutions recalled the heartbreaking incident:
"After putting so much time and effort into this project, the fire was devastating. We salvaged what we could, which wasn't a lot. Kokuru sat there for over a year before a new Masterton-based owner decided to take on the challenge of restoring the boat a second time around."
"Although the project is still a few months from completion, major decisions like choosing the engine type were made some time ago."
"Kokuru Mark I ran twin 75HP Yanmar engines. Although they didn't see much action, all the performance tests and sea trials produced excellent results. The previous Yanmars were efficient, quiet and reliable, and while the owner looked at other options – sticking with proven Yanmar power won the day."
Kokuru Mark II will be fitted with twin common-rail 80HP Yanmar powerplants. The extra bit of power is ideal for the in-coastal cruising the new owner is planning.
"Getting the powerplant right is crucial with any vessel. Although the choice of Yanmar seemed fairly straightforward - Power Equipment worked closely with the owner and myself to make sure we had the documentation and technical details nailed down. Plus, Power Equipment made sure the engines were delivered on time – meeting project deadlines."
Kokuru is currently being worked on at the Orakei Marina Boatyard, and we look forward to showing you the finished version in all its glory. Stay tuned!