From Comfort to Big Game Fishing: The Senator RH770 That Does It All
When Simon came to us with his vision for the ultimate Senator RH770 package, his brief was simple. He wanted a boat that offered comfort for the family, exceptional safety in all conditions, and the tech to chase big fish out wide. The result? A fully customized rig that blends comfort with serious offshore capability. Whether he’s cruising with the family, exploring D’Urville Island, or hunting Bluefin off Kaikoura, this build is ready for it all.
Comfort Without Compromise
Long days on the water call for serious creature comforts, and Simon’s 770 delivers. The club seating on the port side creates a perfect space to gather, eat, and relax. Need extra sleeping space? The club seat converts into another sleeping berth, complementing the full V-berth up front, which comfortably sleeps two (or three, if you don’t mind getting cozy). An electric toilet adds convenience, while hot water on deck—thanks to the Califont system—means a warm rinse after a long day.
The onboard fridge/freezer and oven ensure that hot meals aren’t just a luxury but a given. Whether it’s grilled fresh catch or a quick coffee before sunrise, Simon’s got everything he needs to keep the crew fuelled for adventure.
Safety First (and Always)
With offshore missions in mind, safety was non-negotiable. That’s why this rig is kitted out with an advanced electronics package that doesn’t just enable adventure - it keeps Simon and his crew safe in all conditions. The Garmin radar mounted on the roof, combined with a FLIR thermal imaging camera, makes navigating in low-visibility conditions effortless and safe.
Thermal imaging has become a game-changer in modern boating safety. Unlike traditional navigation tools, these cameras detect heat signatures, allowing boaties to spot hazards, obstacles, and even people in the water—day or night, fog or shine. It’s this level of tech that transforms an already capable rig into one that’s safer, smarter, and ready for anything.
Adventure-Ready: Built to Chase Big Fish
A boat like this isn’t just for cruising - it’s for big adventures. With missions to Cook Strait, D’Urville, and Bluefin grounds off Kaikoura on the horizon, Simon needed a setup that could handle it all. That’s where the Garmin 16-inch screen and advanced sonar system come in, offering crystal-clear imaging for deep drops and shallow water action alike.
To keep things stable in rough conditions, ZipWake trim tabs are fitted, delivering automatic adjustments for a smoother, more controlled ride.
And when it comes to staying on the fish, the Yamaha Helm Master EX Level 4 system makes it almost too easy:
FishPoint – Holds the boat in a fixed position using GPS, letting the current move the stern naturally.
DriftPoint – Keeps the boat moving with wind and current while holding a set heading - ideal for drift fishing and trolling.
StayPoint – Locks both position and heading, so Simon can focus on fishing.
With autopilot functionality, long runs are effortless, letting Simon cover more ground with less effort.
Power That Turns Heads
Of course, no build like this would be complete without serious horsepower. Enter the Yamaha XF450 V8 in Pearlescent White—a brand new release from Yamaha and an absolute beast of an outboard.
With 450 horsepower and a 5.6-liter big-block V8, this engine isn’t just about top speed (83 km/h, in case you’re wondering)—it’s about midrange torque that makes bigger boats feel light and responsive. The integrated steer-by-wire system ensures razor-sharp handling, reducing steering effort while keeping the rig sleek and low-maintenance. Plus, the direct-injection system optimizes fuel efficiency, alongside it being powerful, smooth, and reliable—everything you’d want from an outboard designed for both performance and endurance.
The Final Verdict? One Seriously Capable Rig
Simon’s RH770 is a seriously impressive, seriously capable rig. With modern safety tech and big offshore power, this 770 is the ultimate no-limits rig. Whether he's exploring new waters, chasing trophy fish, or cruising with family, this custom build delivers the perfect balance. A fantastic example of the possibilities of a Senator hardtop - built to suit Simon’s lifestyle and adventures of choice.
