What began as a routine factory tour of a Rayglass 3500 quickly evolved into a far more ambitious project for two lifelong mates and keen boaties. While visiting the Rayglass Boats facility, their attention was drawn to a Rayglass 4000 undergoing restoration on the factory floor. That moment shifted the plan entirely, replacing the idea of buying new with the appeal of restoring one of New Zealand’s most respected production launches.
First released in 2005, the Rayglass 4000 was an instant success, winning Launch of the Show at the New Zealand Boat Show and quickly moving into steady production. Designed by Tony Hembrow, the 12.5-metre GRP launch became the country’s most popular locally built boat in its class, valued for its offshore capability, practical layout, and strong performance. Most examples were powered by twin Cummins QSD 4.2 320hp diesels, delivering a top speed around 39 knots and an easy cruising range of 26–28 knots, impressive figures for a vessel of this size.
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Under the guidance of Rayglass Premium Restoration head Tim Tsoumas, the owners moved quickly. After inspection and sea trial, they committed to a full renovation with a clear budget goal, to come in below the cost of a new 3500 including purchase and refit. The restoration became a collaborative process, with the owners deeply involved in decisions around layout, technology, and finish.
The result is not simply a refitted fishing boat, but what Tsoumas describes as a gentleman’s launch. Advanced electronics, long-range open array radar, FLIR night vision, autopilot, and high-end fishing systems were paired with thoughtful comfort upgrades and a distinctive Nardo grey hull wrap inspired by one owner’s Audi.
Delivered to Whangamatā ahead of a milestone birthday, the newly named Majestic was immediately put to use, set up for cruising, fishing, and future stories shared between mates, exactly as the Rayglass 4000 was always intended to be used.
Read the full story on how a 3500 tour turned into a dream 4000 renovation for two best mates, on the Rayglass website: https://www.rayglass.co.nz/logbook/2025/december/how-a-3500-tour-turned-into-a-dream-4000-renovation-for-two-best-mates-2/
