Mercury Marine’s V10 Verado 400hp has set a new performance benchmark for Kirby Marine, enabling the builder to elevate its Naiad range. The partnership sees Mercury engines specified on the Naiad 7.5m, 8.5m and 10m, marking a significant step forward in the collaboration.
Managing Director Rob Kirby says the V10 has given the vessels a “new lease on life,” delivering gains in performance, efficiency and usability. “We thought we’d plateaued, but the V10 has opened up new opportunities to keep improving,” he said, noting Mercury’s strong response to customer feedback in a highly competitive market.
Weighing 316kg, the V10 Verado combines a lightweight design with a smooth, quiet ride, thanks to Mercury’s Advanced MidSection mounting system that isolates vibration and reduces noise. For Kirby Marine and its clients, the standout benefit is ease of use, with Joystick Piloting integrated with the bow thruster, allowing seamless control of throttle, shift and steering through a single interface.
High-speed stability is another key advantage, particularly in rough West Australian conditions, with the large four-blade propeller delivering smooth planing and confidence at speeds above 50 knots.
Kirby Marine builds vessels for commercial and recreational clients, including organisations such as CSIRO and Western Australia Police. After extensive testing on recreational boats, the V10 Verado is now being introduced into commercial builds, including upcoming rescue vessels destined for Australia’s east coast.
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