If you know anything about offshore racing history, you know the Apache name and what timeless quality it represents in the powerboating world. So you’ll be extra excited to know that the Apache Star, originally named the Apache Heritage, is back in action this Saturday to attempt to set a world speed record on a run from Key West, Florida to Havana, Cuba. The boat is notable as the first sit-down Deep-V made, not to mention already having broken several past records and winning world championships in ’92 and ’93.
A whopping 7,000 hours were put into the boat to refurbish it to as-new. Modern upgrades include custom-made helmets and Recaro racing bucket seats with safety features utilized from next-generation fighter jets. Twin bi-turbo Mercs tally up to 2,700 HP, fueling the Apache Star’s initial test speeds in excess of 115 knots. Apache is easily poised to push more MPH during the real thing and we’re excited to see how it goes.
The crossing will also mark the first time since 1963 that an American powerboat with an American crew has been authorized by the US government to visit Cuba. Approximately 200 nautical miles will be covered, with the first leg taking about 2 hours – already shaving 4 hours off of the previous record. If you want to spectate the event, here are the details:
Where: Stock Island Marina Village
7009 Shrimp Rd, Key West, FL 33040
Lat: 24.56292 Long: 81.73975
Office Phone: (305) 294-2288
VHF CH. 16 during office hours
Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 5pm everyday
When:
August 1, 2015
Departure: 9:30 AM – Key West
Return:
August 3, 2015
Departure: 9:30 AM – Havana
