Choosing Mercury’s 350hp V10 SeaPro Outboards.
Anthony and Jodi Heeney, owners of Port Jet Cruises in Port Macquarie, needed powerful and reliable engines for their newly custom-built Ocean Rider and older Wave Rider boats, both used for whale watching, dolphin spotting, and scenic cruises. After careful consideration, they chose Mercury’s 350hp V10 SeaPro outboards installed on the Ocean Rider with a triple outboard setup and triple 300hp V8 SeaPros on the Wave Rider.
Port Macquarie’s coastal bar presents tough navigation conditions, so the Heeneys need engines that can handle rough seas. Anthony emphasised the importance of speed and torque for safely crossing the bar, and he’s found Mercury engines, especially the V10s, to be the best for the job. “The SeaPros offer a significant advantage—economical and powerful with plenty of torque,” he said, highlighting their ability to handle heavy loads, including 24 passengers, crew, and 1,000 litres of fuel, while maintaining high speeds.
The V10 SeaPros are particularly efficient, using just 77 litres of fuel per hour at a cruising speed of 25 knots, making them ideal for longer journeys. Additionally, their smooth and quiet operation is crucial for Port Jet’s busy schedule, which includes multiple tours per day during the summer. “We need motors that can handle everything we throw at them while supporting our operation,” Anthony noted.
The Ocean Rider’s design, built with the expertise of Jason Carroll from Grove Maine Fabrication and Primal Craft, was crafted to be fast, powerful, and capable of carrying more passengers. Initially, Jason was concerned that the V10s might be underpowered, but they exceeded expectations, helping the boat reach 49 knots, well beyond its intended 40 knots. The boat’s custom specifications, including adjustments to the hull for better manoeuvrability, make it incredibly nimble for its size, able to turn sharply at high speeds.
The collaboration also involved CNC Marine for design, Rogers Marine for electronics and rigging, and Macquarie Signs for the boat’s wrap. Additional features include seating from Beaurtrex, wings from Stern First Inflatables, and a boat lift from Aqua Lift Boats to protect the hull.
