When we take on a custom project we establish the fundamental design elements with the customer, agreeing on the parameters of function, style and price. Many of our projects begin as "working prototypes" with the understanding that at time of delivery we will have produced a well engineered embellishment to the vessel.

We met with the Captain of the Palmer Johnson Sailing Yacht "Mandalay" and discussed a unique passerelle project with him. They really wanted to install an elegant hydraulic passerelle to allow crew and guests easier and more sturdy boarding. The design challenge was that there just wasn't space to store such a piece of equipment. Our solution was to replace the hydraulic davit which was installed on the stern of the vessel with a "PassaCrane". We developed a double-telescoping passerelle, with a 2000 pound capacity hydraulic linear winch built into the final plank section.

The PassaCrane stowes athwartships and above the transom door, and in a stowed position becomes additional seating while the tender is in the water. As a Crane this equipment rotates hydraulically, luffs almost vertically and can telescope while under load. As a Passerelle this equipment rotates, luffs up and down and telescopes hydraulically. The walking surface is seamed teak decking by Teak Decking Systems. Offset stainless steel railings line both sides of the plank for style and safety. No dock wheels are needed as this passerelle self-supports itself above the dock.

This custom project was contracted on a time and materials basis. We delivered and installed the PassaCrane on time and under budget! This project has led us into development of a series of production PassaCranes for a well known boat builder here in the United States. Tiara Yachts