Step into a piece of history with Hull #001, the iconic 1987 47-foot Apache, crafted and raced by the legendary duo of Ben Kramer and Bob Saccenti. Adorned in the infamous yellow-and-blue '69' livery designed by Gail Paik, this boat epitomizes the wild spirit of Miami's mid-80s 'cocaine cowboy' era, where the lines between professional offshore racing and high-stakes smuggling blurred amid a backdrop of speed and audacity.
A Legacy of Notoriety:
Ben Kramer transformed the 1987 racing scene into his personal arena as he made the leap to the superboat class, taking on the competition head-on. Built at the original Apache Powerboats facility in Hollywood, FL, this boat was born into a fierce rivalry, with Kramer co-founding Apache and using racing as both his playground and a showcase for his enterprise. It was a prized asset until it was seized during a federal crackdown after its sole race in New Jersey, vanishing into federal custody and swirling in rumors within the powerboat community. It finally reemerged at a 1994 government auction—untouched and ready for a new chapter of ownership.
Restored and Race-Proven:
This vessel stands alone as the sole link between the notorious 'Golden Age' of the 1980s and modern performance. Under its current owner's care, it has been thoroughly restored and meticulously maintained by the renowned TNT Custom Marine, preserving its rich racing heritage.
Engine Details:
Equipped with triple Keith Eickert/Thunder Racing V8 engines—rebuilt for reliability and performance—this powerhouse delivers approximately 700 hp each, making these engines unique in existence, accompanied by a spare.
Modern Dominance:
Don't let its history deceive you; this boat is a formidable contender. In the 2023 Ocean Cup, restored #001 showcased its prowess by setting a World Record in the Class B V-Hull over 45' category, averaging an astonishing 79 mph over a challenging 128-mile course.
Provenance:
This is the very hull featuring the hand-painted names of its legendary creators: rigger Bobby Moore, designer Mark McManus, throttleman Bob Saccenti, navigator Bob Idoni, and driver Ben Kramer.
Why This Boat?
In an era of mass-produced vessels, the Apache 47 stands as a testament to individual craftsmanship and daring spirit. It doesn’t just glide through the water; it commands it with a roar that has been silenced for years.
Specifications:
- Hull: Apache 47 (Hull #001) — The Original
- Performance: 2023 Ocean Cup World Record Holder
- Engine Setup: Triple Keith Eickert/Thunder Racing engines (Reliable, high-output power)
This boat is not for the faint-hearted. It is meant for the discerning collector who recognizes that Hull #001's true value lies in its unparalleled dominance on the water. Acquiring this vessel means gaining one of the most storied and legendary hulls in offshore racing history.
Serious inquiries only. We're seeking a collector who understands that owning this boat means inheriting a piece of American offshore racing legacy.
For more information, contact:
718-619-7001
Jcseabound@gmail.com
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