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New Zealand boatbuilders are known for pushing the boundaries of innovation, and the NorthCape Custom 43, Rowe’De’O, by Bluefix Boatworks does just that. Incorporating radical hull design and foiling technology, this 43-foot sportfisher offers next level maneuverability and the ability to chase down fish with precision and speed.
Cockpit, Tower, and Deck
Built for serious anglers with a love for light tackle, the cockpit of Rowe’De’O is fitted with a custom fighting and rigging station and a fully refurbished Murray Brothers 130-pound tuna chair that can be swapped out as needed. The Rowes often fish stand-up, and the rocket launcher reflects this preference. Rupp outriggers and auto-retrieve teasers provide flexibility for towing plastics or dredges.
A central live bait tank with a glass viewing window includes two large tuna tubes, capable of holding big baits like skipjack. The cockpit also houses ample refrigeration, a large, insulated fish box fed by a dedicated ice maker, and generous storage throughout. Teak lines the covering boards and cockpit sole, underscoring the vessel’s premium finish.
A drop-down window and sliding door open the cabin bulkhead, enhancing indoor-outdoor flow and allowing the space to be sealed when needed. The tower and flybridge are fitted with Garmin electronics, featuring three 16-inch displays on the bridge and 12-inch screens in the tower. Remote roaming controls can be plugged into any rod holder in the cockpit—a critical feature for short-handed crews.
Performance, Power, and Engineering
At the heart of the NorthCape 43’s exceptional maneuverability is a drive system built for hard-core fish chasers. Twin Cummins QSC8.3 600hp engines turn five-blade 29-inch props via overbuilt 2.5-inch shafts and Twin Disc 2.01:1 gearboxes. This rugged setup thrives under the intense pressure of aggressive reversing and sharp turns while backing down on billfish.
The hull’s foiling technology and radical curved transom contribute to lift and smooth water deflection, keeping the cockpit dry even when reversing at 10 to 12 knots. Water that does make it aboard is quickly cleared by a high-performance scupper system, eliminating the need to slow down.
A SeaKeeper 6 gyro stabilizer and an Onan 11.5kW generator ensure comfort in rough seas. Bluefix engineered a centralized seawater manifold system that serves all onboard functions through a single XOS strainer and skin fitting—a simple yet efficient solution to maintenance.
Interior and Liveaboard Amenities
Rowe’De’O is optimized for extended offshore adventures. With 3,100 liters (820 gallons) of fuel, the boat boasts impressive range, burning 80 liters (21 gallons) per side at a cruising speed of 23 knots. Future plans include passages to Australia’s black marlin grounds in Cairns and onward to Tonga.
The layout is ideal for liveaboard comfort. The interior features American oak cabinetry, brown leather accents, and air conditioning throughout. The galley includes an induction cooktop, dishwasher, expansive refrigeration, and extensive storage. Forward, a king-size berth sits opposite dual full-length rod lockers. A port-side cabin includes twin bunks, and across the hallway is a well-appointed head and generous shower. A Sea Recovery watermaker keeps freshwater flowing throughout.
Crafted with a superyacht-level finish and infused with decades of experience, Rowe’De’O reflects the Rowes’ passion for performance and design. Rowe’De’O is the fourth hull in the NorthCape Custom series, but Bluefix Boatworks is just getting started. A NorthCape 43 is currently being built for a mothership operation, while a 49-footer is heading to the SNAFU fleet in Kona, a new 51 is bound for Cape Verde to join Mark Milner’s Dog’s Bollocks, and a NorthCape Custom 58 will be heading to Cairns.
The company’s ability to blend bespoke design with tournament-grade performance has made Bluefix one to watch on the global stage.
Specifications
- Foam Core Epoxy resin-infused
- LOA: 13.6m (43ft)
- Beam: 4.5m (14.6ft)
- Deadrise at transom: 14 degrees
- Fuel: 3100 l (820 gal.)
- Water: 600 l (158.5 gal.)
- Dry Weight: 15.5 tonnes (34,171 lbs.)
- WOT: 30 knots
- Cruise Speed: 22-23 knots
