How many superlatives can I use to describe the range of IRON Boats that have recently graced our great land? Strong, seaworthy, safe, swift and salubrious, and above all FUN! In fact, I am thrilled to say that IRON Boats present some of the softest-riding, yet sportiest hulls that I have had the good fortune to experience.

In the wake of the meteoric rise in the popularity of both RIBS and elongated longboat designs emanating from the islands and technically advanced by Europeans, Sweden’s long Nordic experience has melded the concepts and combined them with some time-proven deep-V know-how and modular ergonomic design to create the impressive Scandinavian IRON Boats.

We were presented with three models for testing by the Australian Agents, the very well respected Nautical Marine from Sorrento, Victoria, long a home for the popular Caribbean boats, but who have been a large part of the recent trend toward versatile sports boats and RIBS. The three boats on display were the 827 fitted with the gutsy 300HP Mercury V8; the versatile 707 with the performance of the 225HP V6, and the smaller but no less impressive 647 with the ever-reliable torque of the 150HP ProXS.

In Scandinavia, IRON Boats are identified with a dark, almost stealth-like image featuring ebony and grey hulls, and even their website and brochures reflect this trend. However, the importers have changed the pace in Australia by lightening up their demonstration boats with brilliant white gelcoat offset by blackened dashboard and fixtures with charcoal upholstery, although one of the first sold was a dark grey option, so who knows, we Aussies may follow the trend.

IRON Boats were developed by boating enthusiasts Lars and Henrik Peterson, “Ironbrothers”, in collaboration with Mannerfelt Design Team, one of the most respected design studios in the global marine industry.

Easily Distinguishable

IRON Boats are easily distinguishable by their strong, low profile, clean lines, accentuated by an eminently practical side fender/gunwale surrounding the hull. This hard rubber fender has a honeycomb construction, enhancing the hull/deck bond strength whilst dampening side flex and resonance, adding to the low noise and impact characteristics. It is also a terrific wear surface eliminating the need for fenders and hence being attractive to safety, instructional and authoritative organisations that need to close moor to other vessels without damage.

All models in the Iron Boats range (models from 6.5 - 9 metres) feature similar construction and design characteristics with solid fibreglass laminates and positive buoyancy, but not foam-filled. They have nine internal consoles, seating and storage modules in common, keeping the range easily adaptable to the client’s needs. You can even configure your ideal package online! Whilst the smaller 647 features the same functional centre console module as the rest, it only has room for a drop-down table and front-facing seat/bench, not the larger units' cockpit dinette.

23-Degree Deep-V

The bows have a beautiful sweeping entry with well-defined hard chines leading to a series of three strakes in stepped sizes and culminating at the stern with a steep 23-degree deadrise. All hulls feature tremendous lift and a very level progression to low planing speeds. They hold the plane well at a low 3000RPM for slow cruising while utilising the hull's running strengths.  The bow carries the weight of added passengers without digging in, and the consoles and cockpit seating are well placed to maximise the boat's balance. All this, and it's still self-draining for maximised safety.

They veritably run “like they are on rails.” In fact, it was comically mentioned several times that their great behaviour at all speeds almost makes them boring, as they are so predictable with the complete absence of bad habits.  We opened up the big 827 with its impressive 300HP V8 Mercury 4-stroke to a WOT of 43 knots (80 kmh) using a relatively thrifty 72lph at 5600RPM with a 23” Enertia prop. We were suitably exhilarated, but imagine the same rig with its maximum rated 450HP – weapon!

I simply loved the 707 fitted with the refined V6 power of the 225HP Mercury 4-stroke that gave a top end and almost exactly the same performance figures, including the fuel use of its bigger sister with the V8! Whilst we didn’t have the fuel computer hooked up on the smaller 647 we easily managed a very respectable 38 knots (70 kph) at 6100rpm fitted with my favourite 150ProXS, and I am sure all of those figures can be beaten as we punched into both tide and breeze with a light load. Incidentally, the 647 has a maximum horsepower rating of 200, and the 707 is rated to 250HP for those carrying greater loads or simply wanting even more thrills.

There are no wide inflatable chambers as in a comparable RIB, so there is much more internal volume in an IRON Boat. The sides are deep, adding to the security factor with the low centre of gravity, significantly improving both handling and providing terrific stability. They turn beautifully even with a tight spin at high speeds, making them immense fun to drive with the attitude of a well-performing sports console. Being a deep-V design, they will lean into a turn but not to any critical angle, and the chines combined with the big Mercury gear cases provide immense grip without slippage or cavitation.

What's Up Front?

There’s a deep anchor locker in the bow, and the dealers are working with local suppliers to create a suitable electric anchor winch that still allows the bumper fender in the bow. Up in front is an optional casting deck/large storage module with a thickly upholstered top. You can extend the area to a full sun lounge with plug-in cushions extending back to the front console dual seat.

You will love the helm and console module that provides plenty of storage underneath, enough to add in a porta potty for the ladies, albeit a little squeezy. The twin bolster seats at the helm are tucked nicely behind the windscreen, protecting both the leaning and seated positions, and you have good visibility at each. The modern faceted dashboard is presented in deep ebony gelcoat to reduce glare. It provides plenty of room for a full array of instruments and accessories, including the Simrad multi-function displays and binnacle controls as fitted to all demonstration boats. The seating position for driver and passenger is comfortable and very secure for the sporty fun that will tempt you at the helm.

Our 827 and 707 had a small refrigerator in the helm seat module and an optional fibreglass T-top overhead. Standard canvass options are available ex-factory, but to be honest, nobody does canopies better than we Aussies, so get the dealer to quote your local options. The rear of the helm module has a dual upholstered bench that forms half of a cockpit dinette along with the rear lounge.

The rear lounge has a comfy cushioned backrest, and underneath, there is even more storage and direct access to the bilge, electrical, and plumbing components. Remember, it’s a self-draining deck, so this should be a relatively dry compartment.

Out back, the fun launches with twin boarding platforms, one with a telescopic ladder, wet box storage on either side, and ski poles, which are standard equipment. The transom area is easily accessed from either side of the rear lounge, and all flooring surfaces throughout the entire boat feature attractive non-slip EVA-style decking.

Of course, the dealer can custom-fit all models to suit your intended purpose, including bait boards, rod holders, and rocket launchers. You may also opt for some tower speakers or wakeboard racks—it’s up to you.

World Class Hull & Innovation

Being relatively new to the country IRON Boats Australia are open to discussing business partnerships including securing dealers in other states of Australia?

I absolutely love some of the innovation being spawned by both our homeland and international boating sectors in recent years. Competition, it seems, really is the mother of invention, and the Scandinavians have always been at the forefront of design and seamanship. You must ride one of the range of IRON Boats to truly understand the confidence given by this world-class performer. So strike while the Iron’s hot!

 

Specifications - Iron Boats 827

Overall Length 8.32 m

Beam 2.44 m

Weight (Hull only approx dry) 1450kg

Capacity 9 persons

Fuel Capacity 302 litres

Max Power Outboard to 450HP

Power (as tested): 300HP

CE class C

 

Supplied by IRON Boats/Nautical Marine, Sorrento VIC.

 

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