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Press, 11 September 1986, Page 3

When the head of Christchurch’s Skope Industries, Mr Robert Stewart, decided he needed a new yacht, he did nothing as mundane as going to an established boatbuilder. He started his own boatbuilding company. Skope Yachts, Ltd, has now completed the hull and has begun fitting out its first boat, an 18-metre aluminium cruiser aimed at the executive market. Featuring elaborate accommodation and entertainment space, for eight, the yacht will have all the comforts of home, including a domestic refrigerator and microwave oven, and either a dishwasher or clothes washing machine. Power will come from a 130 horsepower diesel engine and a 230-volt generator. However, this will be no floating cocktail lounge but a well found vessel capable of cruising the world. Sailing equipment will include electric winches, rollerfurling main and foresails, and top-of-the-line electronics. An unusual feature, to ensure easy handling by just two persons, will be a retractable bow thruster for close-in manoeuvring.