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The seasoned adventurer claims that MultiPanel’s impressive list of unique attributes were difficult to overlook when bringing to life his latest technology-packed vessel. MultiPanel is 100% waterproof and 60% lighter than less versatile and non-waterproof composites. The huge weight saving offered by MultiPanel makes it a far easier product to work with and provides potential fuel savings. “Every part of the interior is removable and in several cases folds out, so fitting a lightweight product to bulkheads means I can move and fix interior elements far more easily than with marine ply. The ease of construction means that MultiPanel lends itself to what I’m trying to achieve,” says Laughlin. The versatility and innovation behind Convergence makes it a perfect fit with the technologically-driven and design-oriented solutions offered by MultiPanel. For example, the yacht has a retractable keel that will allow it to access notoriously inhospitable locations. Laughlin’s expedition company, Antarctic Spirit, will take 12 voyagers to the icy region upon the yacht’s completion – expected sometime next year. Laughlin and his crew will then conduct trials before carrying out major voyages into the challenging region. Having lived aboard his last yacht for 8 years, Laughlin highly values a comfortable interior, seeing it as an extension of one’s home when on long and sometimes unpleasant journeys. Convergence will have four separate cabins comprised of various bunk configurations, ducted heating, leather recliners, spas, indoor-outdoor entertainment systems, and even a possible sauna and gym. MultiPanel’s capacity to be heat-moulded into virtually any shape and be finished with high quality veneers and laminates have made it ideal for Laughlin’s challenging interior fit-out. “I want my boat to be comfortable both practically and aesthetically, and MultiPanel’s inherent qualities have helped me create a home away from home – rather than just another cabin,” says Laughlin. MultiPanel CEO Tony Russo is overjoyed to have his product featured in Laughlin’s compelling boat. “MultiPanel’s desirability for such demanding applications as this demonstrates the value it can also add to the pleasure craft production market,” Russo said. Created in close collaboration with naval architects, scientists and logistics personnel, Convergence is designed to withstand extreme conditions, and the 100% waterproof, strong, but super lightweight MultiPanel used throughout is a key part of the construction.
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MultiPanel is a key design element in a high-tech Antarctic expedition vessel currently under construction in Tasmania. The 16-metre vessel, called Convergence, is the brainchild of Scott Laughlin – a highly respected veteran of scientific expeditions to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean over a 20 year period. All of Laughlin’s voyages have been heavily reliant upon quality vessels and leading marine technologies.