FIBRECRAFT/CHASE MARINE
MIDI SKIMMER
Specifications | Boat report
Specifications
Length                                                       6.10m
Width                                                         2.40m
Weight - Boat                                          475 kg
Weight - Trailer                                       600kg

Rated Horsepower
Minimum                                                   15hp
Maximum                                                  40hp
Recommended                                          25hp

Maximum speed                                       30 km/h (40 hp)

Standard equipment
Basic Midi-Skimmer incorporating pontoons, deck and surround rail

Optional extras

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Boat Report
(by kind permission of the African Fisherman December 1996)
The Midi-Skimmer is the third in a line of unique craft developed by Fibrecraft for use on Africa's dams and rivers. A pontoon type craft consisting of a flat, platform deck mounted on pontoons, the concept offers unrivalled space, coupled with economic operation. Simple but functional in its design and construction, its application is as versatile as the owner wishes.
The Skimmer range was originally launched in a 18' version in 1991, followed by the 23' Mega Skimmer in 1994, which formed the basis for the 20' Midi-Skimmer. While the Mini-Skimmer lacks the immense carrying capacity of the Mega-Skimmer, the Mega Skimmer is too large to be easily towed from venue to venue. The Midi-Skimmer was designed as a narrower, shorter version suitable for towing, while still maintaining the carrying capabilities similar to the Mega-Skimmer.
The commercial potential of the Skimmers has not gone unnoticed by the various safari operators in Southern Africa. They are used extensively on the Zambezi, Kariba and the Chobe for cruises, fishing, bird watching and game viewing. I have even seen one shooting some fairly hairy rapids just above the Falls, where a Zambian operator treats his guests to rafting of a different kind.
Construction and Finish
The Midi-Skimmer consists of two six meter (20') fibreglass pontoon floats (based on shortened Mega-Skimmer pontoons) which are sealed with three enclosed bulkheads, forming four sealed flotation chambers. A steel superstructure supports a Marine Ply/Fibreglass deck measuring 2.4m (8') by 4.8m (16'), giving a useable deck area of nearly 12 square meters (128 sq ft) which is finished with a steel grab rail and mesh surround incorporating three access gates.
The basic design has been kept simple to allow for customising. Several accessories are produced as standard extras which include a fibreglass (moulded) splash deflector/Storage hatch, a centre console (free standing or incorporating seat), sun canopy and swivel seats. Other items such as cooler boxes, additional storage boxes and so on can be added as desired.
Gel coat colours can be incorporated into the pontoons and splash deflector, with upholstered seats for the storage boxes and drivers and swivel seats available on request. Other fittings are made using weather resistant materials or coatings.
The Skimmer can be supplied with trailer where required. Relatively large and heavy duty compared to the standard boat trailers, it is easily towed with a pickup (1800cc to 2 litre)

Fishability
The Skimmer concept offers a fishing platform, not easily defined by normal boat standards. It is possible to fish eight people off this craft without being crowded. The ample flotation provided by the pontoons makes it stable, and therefore safe. Not confined to the normal constraints of space associated with boating, comfort can be tailored to your liking, while several activities like fishing, sunbathing and game viewing can be carried on together.
Its resemblance to the houseboat concept now commonplace on Kariba is indicative of its versatility. Skimmers can be fitted with canvas drop sides, bench seats which convert to beds, galley, lighting, and in fact anything else one desires. It is big enough to live and fish off, cruising great distances as a mini houseboat. Rated for up to 12 adults, or a ton of payload, the Midi-Skimmer is not easily overloaded.

Power requirement is another plus. Because of the minimal drag, and light weight relative to its size, single outboards as small as 15 horsepower will push the craft. Fitted with a 25hp, it is possible to pull a teenage skier, and will reach speeds of about 20km/h. Twin outboards can be fitted but are not necessary. As these hulls are not of a planing design, it is pointless overpowering the Midi-Skimmer, as instead of performing better it tends to plough with too much power.
The Midi-Skimmers are very stable craft, and as the floor self drains, it is not fussed by rough water. The addition of the splash deflector in the bow, eliminates all splash, and the Midi-Skimmer could handle most waters the Zambezi river, inland dams or Kariba can produce.
The Midi-Skimmers strength space, stability, economy of purchase and operation, and its versatility make it a viable option for all types of outdoors and water enthusiasts.
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