K'adó

K'adó: Abrv, Katandra a dó. After the Irish. Katandra the second. See also Kado: The Japanese art of formal flower arrangement, with special regard shown to balance, harmony, and form.

Existing Redbay Customer Mr Peter McKeon took delivery of his new RIB, K'adó, over the Easter weekend. Peter decided to move up to a Stormforce 7.4 from his existing Stormforce 6.5, Katandra. Peter's brief was for a RIB that was safe and comfortable for his young family, but could still offer something of the performance and ability of Katandra. He also liked the console design from the 8.4 Expedition, and the provision of a double berth in the bow was also very appealing.

From the drawing board came this concept. A combination of the 8.4 Expedition softtop, shortened and fitted to a 7.4 hull. Peter wanted an outboard with plenty of punch, so an engine well was also incorportated. Eventually, the brand new Suzuki 300 hp four-stroke was fitted.

The layout of Kado is very functional and well suited to it's purpose as a fun family RIB with serious offshore capabilities. In the bow, the standard double berth has been fitted, with a chemical toilet fitted underneath. In the main cabin, the RIB is fitted with four Scotia Highback Comfort seats with 4-point harness. The stern of the RIB has been fitted with an engine well with integrated aft bench seat and storage underneath.

Fitout includes:

• Raymarine C120 Plotter
• ICOM M-421 DSC VHF Radio
• Navman Depth Sounder
• CD Player System
• Raymarine Lifetag System
• Tek-Dek decking

Power is provided by the all new Suzuki 300hp four-stroke outboard. Performance was around 45 knots on trials from the very impressive power unit.

Photos provided by Mr Mike Thornton, from recent trip to Corryvreckan. Thanks Mike!

Posted:16th April 2007