Exclusive / The Gala V580F, an aluminium semi-rigid developed by fishermen for fishermen

The Gala V580F exhibited at the Grand Pavois in La Rochelle 2017 © Bateaux.com

Gala is a Canadian brand of semi-rigid and rigid shell, imported into France since the Nautic 2016. With a complete range, the brand is now targeting the fishing market by offering a semi-rigid specifically developed for this practice. The Gala V580F is a 19-foot aluminium semi-rigid, developed by fishermen for fishermen.

Gala presented its first model designed for fishing, by a fisherman, as a world premiere. The Gala V580 F was developed in collaboration with a fishing professional, who equipped it with practical equipment. This 19-foot aluminum tire has a deep V-shaped hull and complements the Viking range, which already includes the V500 (16.5 feet).

What immediately catches the eye are these large aluminium supports on the floats, covered with seadeck (optional) to prepare the bait or clean a fish with the cutting board. "The idea is to be able to put down your cutting board for example." explains Franck Hillen, French importer of the brand. Because it is not always easy to find a suitable surface on a semi-rigid. Side rod holders will also be integrated on these float reinforcements to allow trolling.

The deck is clear and easy to move around on board thanks to the two passages on each side of the console. At the front, there is a storage box and a support cushion on the front of the centre console to allow you to fish standing up from the front beach in comfort, even on rough seas.

The centre console has a large dashboard space for navigation instruments (GPS sounder), as well as a high, enveloping windscreen. The bolster is equipped with 4 rod holders and underneath, there is a livewell supplied with seawater by a pump, to keep its prey alive. 4 other rod holders are installed on the transom.

In the aft cockpit, removable seats (optional) can be stowed in the transom trunk and free up the deck space needed for fishing. Finally, a seawater shower allows you to quickly rinse your boat after a fishing trip. The V580 F can be completely covered with seadeck (optional), a non-slip, non-staining and waterproof coating.

"At the rear, we find what makes Gala so special, a rear hull with the engine a little bit retracted, which gives us the ability to launch even flat." explains Franck. The semi-rigid receives 90 to 140 hp and has a self-draining bridge to drain water easily after each cleaning. Available in Valmex (top-of-the-range PVC), it is also available in Hypalon. Several colours are available: white, grey or black.

The model exhibited at the Grand Pavois (any option) costs 29,550 euros.

The V580 F will also be available in a deluxe version for walking, without livewell, with a real pilot seat seated standing, without side platforms and with a front sunbathing area and a rear bench seat. The 650 will also follow, which will be available in fishing and deluxe versions.

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