This is the 18th METS and it moves across to the bigger Europa Complex of Amsterdam RAI. This has given the organisers, Amsterdam RAI, the opportunity to increase exhibitors by 10%, increase stand space and offer better and more varied catering facilities.

This last improvement will be very welcome - RAI tell us there will be a food court, an Italian restaurant and a Sushi bar.

In addition to the established business corner, the organisers have reserved more room to do business.

The Business Seats are small conference rooms on the balconies overlooking the show that are available for exhibitor use. The metstrade. com Cyber Corner is enlarged and features Internet facilities for exhibitors and visitors.

The show is, they insist, set to be a record-breaker, which is what we'd all expect with a move into bigger premises.

There will be 1045 exhibitors this year, against the 2004 show with 941. RAI says there are 245 new companies from around the world and the newcomers have been carefully screened to ensure that they "specialise in the serious marine trade equipment".

So no spices or magnetic, double-sided window cleaners, then?

The show runs from Tuesday November 15 to Thursday November 17, but for those who want to help attract more people into sailing, there's an important seminar on Monday, November 14 - the 7th International Sailing Summit - see the seminar sidebar on page 26.

The first event of METS is the traditional Breakfast Briefing, hosted IBI magazine, ICOMIA and METS. It's a bit early on the Tuesday morning, but worth the effort - everybody who is anybody in the world of recreational marine will be there. And the discussion topics are generally very good.

National Pavilions For 2005, Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Finland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States will have dedicated national pavilions.

Specialist pavilions See floor plan on page 25. The Composites and Marina Equipment pavilions return in 2005 and new this year is the SuperYacht Pavilion - a group of 20 companies that supply equipment exclusively to the large vessel market.

As in previous years, visitors can also follow the mapped out SuperYacht Route that takes them to all companies at METS with involvement in the sector.

The SuperYacht Pavilion is situated in the Europa Foyer and incorporates a Captains' Bar serving champagne and oysters.

DAME Award The METS Design Award (DAME Award) is now in its 15th year. A jury made up of acknowledged experts in the field assesses new products for design, functionality, originality, innovation, user-friendliness and price/ quality ratio.

One product will receive the DAME Award at the Breakfast Briefing on the first day.

In addition to the top DAME Award, honourable mentions are given in eight categories of marine equipment. Conferences and seminars Conferences and seminars Four key forum events are being held prior to or during the show: the International Sailing Summit (ISS), the Technology Forum, the Marina Seminar and Project 2005. See seminar sidebar for more details.

More details METS has an excellent website full of information, including maps that will give you a route between stands: it's a big place, so that might be A Good Idea. Go to www.metstrade.com Awlgrip - 01.208 Awlgrip will be launching an updated formula of Awlstar Gold Label antifouling at METS.

Using the latest boosters against fouling growth, this copper-based formulation is now further optimised to act as a fouling deterrent for cruising vessels in warm and cold waters, says the company.

Self-polishing Awlstar Gold Label is recommended for use on GRP, steel and wood (not aluminium). It's designed to be applied over Hull-Gard Epoxy Primer, which ensures a strong bond between the two coatings and provides the basis for Awlstar Gold Label's performance.

Hull-Gard Epoxy Primer is an epoxy-based water barrier that can be directly applied to clean, prepared hulls.

To provide a built-in indicator of when Awlstar Gold Label needs to be replenished, Awlgrip recommends that the first coat be applied in a different colour from the remaining coats. It will be time to renew as soon as this layer starts showing through.

Barton Marine - 01.240 Barton Marine is one of the leading manufacturers of sail control hardware in the UK, producing a range of over 1,000 products designed to endure heavy usage on cruising and racing yachts.

The Barton Marine team will be available to offer advice and information on the complete range of Barton gear.

Barton assesses the use of various components and selects materials that enable the completed sailboat fitting to be stronger yet lighter.

Barton's careful selection of materials is exemplary, as can be seen in the upgraded Snatch Block, which has a fully stainless steel opening mechanism to provide more strength than the chrome plated bronze used in other similar products.

The consideration of design and application of the product is illustrated with Barton's award winning ClamSeal, a glueless repair for RIBs, inflatables and liferafts.

In addition to winning the 2004 METS Design Award (DAME) in the Lifesaving Equipment and Safety category, the ClamSeal was awarded the 2004 National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Product Innovation Award at the Marine Aftermarket Accessories Trade Show (MAATS).

A comprehensive range of Barton deckware, including blocks, cams, tracks, winches and traveller systems, is available to meet the needs of yacht owners worldwide.

Carling Technologies - 01.221 Carling is launching the Octoplex Shipboard Multiplexed Power Management and Monitoring System.

The unit will intelligently monitor and control a ship's systems and provide complete control of all AC and DC ship's circuit protection from any desired location.

With Octoplex, you can locate breaker panels remotely, without normal access and environmental considerations, thereby saving space and using the most direct and efficient wiring schemes.

The results are lower wire harnessing costs, lower labour installation costs and significant weight savings. In addition, Octoplex provides protection from obsolescence:

The system software can be updated as new NMEA 2000 components are installed.

CEproof - 03.212 CEproof is taking its RCD Expertise to METS, where a team from the UK headquarters, as well as colleagues from several European offices will be available on the stand, offering unrivalled expertise to visitors on CE-marking and complying with the European Recreational Craft Directive (RCD).

Visitors will also be able to take advantage of a personal introduction to CE-Pro, the clever software developed by CEproof that facilitates RCD assessment and documentation, bringing users huge cost and time savings.

A unique software package, developed over several years by CEproof, and already in use in several European yards including Fairline Boats, CE-Pro is this year competing for the coveted METS DAME award.

Personnel attending are Tim Rowe (MD), Julian Willans (sales and marketing), Tom van den Heuvel (new Netherlands CEproof franchise manager), Craig Morris and Ian Curtiss (CEproof East Coast UK) and Fredrik Hakanson (CEproof Scandinavia).

Cooney Marine - 01-248 Cooney will have a pair of its 125kg Swivelling Davits that are being considered for a DAME 2005 award. And they're giving away a pair of swivelling davits during the Belship evening.

E-T-A Circuit Breakers - 05.402 E-T-A, designer and manufacturer of a broad range of electro-mechanical and electronic products for circuit protection, switching and control, will be showing Powerbus, its state-ofthe-art distributed electrical power management systems for marine applications.

E-T-A will also be showing circuit breakers for the protection of low voltage DC and AC marine electrical systems. Versions from 6mA to 500A are available to meet differing performance, styling and budget requirements.

The Powerbus system designs are based on consultations with leading boatbuilders and comprise power nodes distributed around the boat to reduce long runs of heavy current wiring.

The circuits are switched electronically, from the central console, via small signal cables that communicate with each node. The circuits fed from each node are protected by well-proven E-T-A technology.

Solid-state E-T-A power controllers switch the circuits on and off, while also providing overcurrent protection.

Operation of Powerbus is by means either of advanced touch screen displays or conventional switch panels, or a combination of the two according to customer preference. The touchscreen panel offers displays which can be scrolled for different functions such as navigation, engine management, navigational lights, etc.

The system is CANbus controlled, a recognised industry standard protocol, and can be interfaced with any other CANbus sensor or component, to provide a whole range of new capabilities.

Powerbus is software driven, being intuitively configurable from a laptop.

For other applications, E-T-A circuit breakers include the 1110 and 2-5700 models with push-button on/off operation, and the 3120 and 3130 with ergonomically styled rocker switch actuators in a range of colours with and without illumination, and the 413 and 452 high-performance types.

The E-T-A 447 provides ideal protection for the high power motors used for bow thrusters.

The circuit breaker is designed to disregard the initial start-up surge currents which typically can blow fuses, while providing protection against overloads such as those caused by the ingress of plastic bags, rope, and similar floating waste. It is re-set by a simple press of a button. The 437 has an optional feature enabling it to be switched off, and/or reset from a remote switching location on a control panel.

Single and double-pole 921/922 battery isolation switches provide the safety and convenience of full remote control, and E-T-A also offers electronic point level sensors for oil and water applications, including waste water and sewage.

Gill - 03.105 Gill is launching its most comprehensive range of waterproofs for 2006. From its new Inshore/Coastal range, all the way through to Offshore, Gill's waterproofs have been completely redeveloped.

The R&D team at Gill has searched the globe to source the finest fabrics and undertake extensive research into the best production and manufacturing methods.

Gill has worked with some of the world's top sailors in order to create the very best in performance, design and styling, resulting in a waterproof range of which the company is very proud as it celebrates 30 years of innovation in technical clothing.

Atlantic - The Gill Atlantic suit has undergone a complete redesign and increased spec for 06. The fabric has been upgraded Gill's 5 Dot Ocean quality and the suit fully satisfies the criteria of the Offshore Sailor.

The sharp new look of the Atlantic suit is key to the Gill 06 waterproof launch, and stands out in the crowd in the Offshore category.

Key West - Still Gill's bestselling range around the world, Key West has been further improved with a new 3 Dot 2layer fabric giving a higher level of breathability and improved durability to protect against all kinds of abrasion.

Cruise - Gill has used classic lines and traditional styling for its new Cruise Jacket and Trousers whilst making this product 100% breathable? and it's excellent value.

This is a really practical suit for coastal/inshore use and is made in a Gill 2 Dot? breathable and waterproof performance fabric. The Jacket and Trousers are both fully taped.

Coast Warm/Coast Lite/ Coast Sport - Gill is launching an all-new range of Coast jackets that provide three breathable waterproof options and styles for coastal/inshore dailing and motorboat cruising.

Coast Warm incorporates a fleece lining to protect against chillier conditions; Coast-Lite is for warmer weather as well as being rugged and stylish and the Coast Sport is a full coastal waterproof suit that combines on-the-boat practicality and performance with on-shore style and design.

And finally.. the most comprehensive luggage range ever...

Gill's waterproof Wet 'n' Dry bags have been a big hit witht he sailing community, especially those who are constantly travelling around the racing circuit. the company has always produced good quality, durable and rugged bags but with the new products they provide a one-stop range for every eventuality.

Gleistein Ropes - 01.226

The rope maker Bremen is using METS for further expansion. The company is already present in almost all oceans across the globe, it says, so in order to cover the last spots on the map, Gleistein will use the show to expand its distribution network.

To achieve this goal the agenda includes many talks with international agents, many of which are concerned with area protection.

In addition, Gleistein will highlight its cooperation with BMW Oracle Racing to a broader audience for the first time. The rig man of the racing team, Kevin Batten, will be on the stand for the first two days.

Newage Transmissions - 01.312 The PRM Marine Propulsion Control (MPC) unit, an all-new system providing full electronic control over engine throttle and gear engagement, will be launched by Newage Transmissions at METS.

Providing soft gear engagement - for improved comfort, increased vessel control and reduced component wear - the MPC system also features a trolling capability (variable propeller speed at constant engine revs) and the automatic adjustment of engine power to match the demands of enginedriven ancillaries, such as power take off (PTO) units.

Designed specifically for PRM series marine transmissions, the new system is suitable for use with both mechanical and electronically controlled engines. The unit's fully interlocked, closed loop control provides stable gearbox output speeds under all engine load conditions. In addition, it allows the sizing of hydraulic pumps and accessories to be optimised, enabling the use of more powerful ancillary equipment in many applications.

Further features of the new system include programmable software to enable the system to be tailored to individual application requirements, and the availability of single, twin or fly-bridge controls, whose operation is synchronised through the unit's electronic control system. For added safety, the new MPC unit also offers a full manual override in the event of an on-board electrical failure.

Other high efficiency PRM marine transmissions equipment to be displayed at METS will include lightweight, all mechanical units designed for the rapidly-expanding pleasure craft and light commercial market; heavy duty PRM 750 workboat transmissions; and the company recently introduced top-of-the-range PRM 1750 gearboxes for use with engines rated at up to 457kW (620bhp). With a maximum torque capacity of 1750Nm, this heavy duty unit is available in both shallow or deep gearcase configurations with a range of standard ratios from 1.22:1 to 4.90:1.

The latest model features a dual countershaft design that enables full input power to be transmitted in both ahead or astern. As a result, units are equally suitable for left or right hand propeller rotations - as well as multiple engine installations.

They also carry Lloyd's approved commercial ratings and are backed by a full two year warranty and the company's world-wide dealer and customer support network.

Perkins Sabre - 03.312 A new generation of Perkins Sabre onboard genset engines is set to be unveiled at METS that fully complies with all current and proposed emissions legislation.

The Perkins Sabre 4.4GM, 4.4TGM, 4.4TWGM and 4.4TW2GM have net engine power outputs spanning from 42.7kWm to 106.8kWm and have been designed to further meet the customers' needs.

The whole range of fourcylinder, 4.4-litre engines has increased its overall package performance but bare engine noise is lower than ever before.

Each engine is available in two constant speeds, 1500 rpm and 1800 rpm, and both are suitable for operation in ambient temperatures up to 50infinityC, and seawaters up to 38infinityC.

The models have a higher level of reliability and lower cost of ownership; each has the capability of one-side servicing, therefore reducing time and cost. The engines also have extended service intervals of 500 hours and a 12 month oil change period.

Another world "first" in environmental engines will also be shown at METS this year.

The Perkins Sabre M92B propulsion engine is fully compliant with the European Tier II gaseous and particulate pollutant emissions regulations and the US's Environmental Protection Agency's Stage Two regulations. The engine is also capable of compliance with the EC's Recreational Craft Directive [RCD] and CCNR [Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine] Stage One requirements.

The M92B is a naturally aspirated, direct injection, four-cylinder, 4.4-litre engine that develops its maximum power at a comfortable and low stressed 2,400rpm. The engine is popular with a broad selection of craft, including inland waterway and coastal cruisers, sailing yachts, passenger ferries, fishing boats and workboats.

Spectra Watermakers - 03.102 Spectra have been asked by many customers, from all over the world, on land and sea, to come up with a portable watermaker and here it is.

By using the exclusive Spectra Pressure Intensifier Technology, the company has produced a rugged watermaker engineered for mobile use in remote areas where good water is essential.

The Aquifier 150 is an affordable, lightweight and compact watermaker that will run off 12 or 24 volt power and make 24 litres an hour of purified drinking water regardless of conditions and.

Every Aquifer comes complete and ready to run. It includes a factory mounted Spectra High Pressure Intensifier, a 20" membrane in a Spectra vessel assembly, and diaphragm feed water pump, enclosed in a corrosion proof impact resistant case. A feed water pressure gauge, product water flow meter, on/off switch and hand held salinity monitor, are all standard features.

Sugatsune - 01.211 Sugatsune's premium quality Lamp brand products for the marine sector will be exhibited for the first time at METS.

Sugatsune's 3000-strong product range includes soft opening/closing and assisted lift door stays and hinges;

numerous conventional hinges, including concealed and detent types; flush and conventional handles; latching systems;

mechanical and magnetic catches; fasteners; casters;

adjustable feet; drawer slides;

locks; brackets and shelving systems.

The company's principal products are available in both 304 and 316 grade stainless steel for use in marine, food processing or other aggressive operating environments.

In addition, considerable attention has been paid to aesthetics in order to ensure the optimum combination of fit, form and function.

Accordingly, Sugatsune Lamp brand products are as suitable for fitting out superyacht interiors as they are for seafood processing or on-board catering applications; where their resistance to contamination is underpinned by the ability to withstand repeated wash down conditions.

The company's attention to detail also brings an added dimension of sophistication to its products. Sugatsune, for example, pioneered the development of modern soft close dampers with its patented Lapcon technology.

Surejust - 03.315 Surejust - a leading manufacturer of high quality marine water heaters with sizes ranging from 10-400 litres in capacity - will have technical manager David Battle on the stand to offer any advice needed.

Tacktick - 03.301 The world's first solar powered remote display will be launched by Tacktick at METS.

Not just a remote control, the Tacktick Micronet Remote Display is an independent, wireless, palm sized display unit as well as remote control.

The dot matrix screen not only shows you all the data from the full onboard Micronet electronics system, it also functions as a full remote control for the Micronet Maxi display units (due to be launched in January 2006).

As you would expect from solar-power experts Tacktick;

the Micronet Remote Display runs on solar power so - unlike all other remote controls on the market - there are no batteries to replace and the unit can be fully sealed and watertight giving it unbeatable reliability.

The Remote Display is available in black or white finish. Additional remotes can be added to the system so any crewmember who needs to change information can have his or her personal remote.

In addition, the Tacktick Remote Display, when used in conjunction with the Universal Wireless Interface, can transmit all the data from the boat's onboard Raymarine, B&G, Silva or any other brand electronics and navigation equipment, making it the most versatile remote on the market.