Today was the last day of the New England Boat Show. A VP from the Parker Factory was in attendance, but very busy working the crowd. I was able to catch a few moments with him and asked him what he could share with us about the status of the Parker 34 Project. This may be a recap for many of you, but below is a capsule of what I learned about the new Parker 34.
The Parker 34 Project is targeted for the 2008 Model year. The plug for the hull is almost complete. They are anticipating a large galley and table up in the pilot house (as oopposed to down in the focs'l). In addition to the V-Berth, there will be a berth in the “aft cabin area”, meaning the sole of the pilothouse is elevated enough to allow a aft-facing berth tucked in under.
The plan is for a separate enclosed head, with hot and cold pressurized water for a shower. A compartment will be available aft for a generator, if so optioned.
The Parker 34 will have a 12 foot beam. Power is twin Yamaha 350. I asked him how they intended to attach them - transom or bracket- and he replied "an integrated bracket". I winced painfully and said.. “not like a euro-transom!” and he winced back at me and said (emphatically) ”NO”,, keeping the same classic Parker lines, but integrating the bracket into the hull.
The local dealer said that Linwood Parker made the rounds a while ago and solicited input for cabin amenities. Issues like some color in the forward cabin…instead of white and beige-only were brought up. So I guess that means to look for colorful cushions. Also discussed was some kind of teak floor treatment as opposed to just plain plastic. In general, more creature comforts for the cruising community.
Here's some photos from the Parker Dealers Booth at the 2007 NE Boat show.
...John
The Parker 34 Project is targeted for the 2008 Model year. The plug for the hull is almost complete. They are anticipating a large galley and table up in the pilot house (as oopposed to down in the focs'l). In addition to the V-Berth, there will be a berth in the “aft cabin area”, meaning the sole of the pilothouse is elevated enough to allow a aft-facing berth tucked in under.
The plan is for a separate enclosed head, with hot and cold pressurized water for a shower. A compartment will be available aft for a generator, if so optioned.
The Parker 34 will have a 12 foot beam. Power is twin Yamaha 350. I asked him how they intended to attach them - transom or bracket- and he replied "an integrated bracket". I winced painfully and said.. “not like a euro-transom!” and he winced back at me and said (emphatically) ”NO”,, keeping the same classic Parker lines, but integrating the bracket into the hull.
The local dealer said that Linwood Parker made the rounds a while ago and solicited input for cabin amenities. Issues like some color in the forward cabin…instead of white and beige-only were brought up. So I guess that means to look for colorful cushions. Also discussed was some kind of teak floor treatment as opposed to just plain plastic. In general, more creature comforts for the cruising community.
Here's some photos from the Parker Dealers Booth at the 2007 NE Boat show.
...John
