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www.marinelink.com MN 21 ronmental regulation, by acquiring vessels that supersede the require- ments set by the currently imposed emissions standards. Other operators like Kitsap Transit in Washington State are being progressive in pioneer- ing an ultra-low-wake vessel design. While no current requirement has been set, flush mount deck hatches, low clearance door sills, and wheel- chair accessible heads and passenger areas will go a long way to create a positive perception for passengers. Compliance means more cost, and it also can potentially mean the loss of revenue. With every 185 pounds added in mitigating features, it has the same performance implication as one potential passenger onboard. Exhaust after-treatment systems are large and heavy. Accessible heads and ramps take up floor space. Bringing a boat up to compliance may necessi- tate the need for a bigger boat, which will burn more fuel and produce more emissions. This is not a battle to be won, but it is worth a fair evalua- tion. It is true that “they sure don’t make ‘em like they used to,” but that probably is a good thing. MN Joe Hudspeth is the Business Development Manager at All American Marine, Inc. He currently serves as a regional co-chairman for the Passenger Vessel Association and participates regu- larly on several committees concerned with marine related issues. Joe can be reached at jhud- speth@allamericanmarine.com or 360- 647-7602.
