France’s Alumarine Shipyard has begun the construction of the new AMS 1500 pilot boat from its 12 to 18 meters range developed in collaboration with the architect Geronimo Naval Design.
This latest-generation boat benefits from the experience gained by the shipyard on similar achievements and the in-depth expertise of the architect on pilot boats and crew boats operating on offshore oil.
This new 15m model is intended for pilot operations in an African port. Built in aluminium, she will be robust and economical to run and maintain.
3D image of AMS 1500 pilot boat - Credits: Alumarine Shipyard
Design and equipments are suitable for use in tropical environments (high temperature and humidity).
The boat is equipped with a robust propulsion system, offering a very good engine rating. All parts from the propulsion system have been determined in order to offer maximum reliability to the operator and to limit maintenance.
This compact boat will enable pilots to intervene without delay using a moderate quantity of fuel, in optimum conditions of comfort and safety.
She will enter into service in mid 2017.
The pilot boat is equipped with 2 robust and reliable 11-liter engines, whose rating allows 3000 hours of annual operation.
With 2x455 hp power, the boat will reach 23 knots at mid-load.
The proven hull shape ensure excellent navigation qualities : very good passage to the sea, very good stability in all sailing conditions and excellent maneuverability along the edge.
The right hull stem allows a maximum dynamic waterline length, factor of efficiency and good crossing by sea coming from the front.
With its compact size, it is a versatile, economical and very manoeuvrable pilot boat.
Particular attention has been given to safety and comfort on board.
3D image of AMS 1500 pilot boat - Credits: Alumarine Shipyard
The boat accommodation, equipment and deck plan have been specifically designed to facilitate the transfer of pilots: handrails, adapted ratlines with ladder and footboard, robust fenders in coated foam on the whole length of the deck line which allows a very good shock absorption during ship contact.
The built-in wheelhouse (lower center of mass) brings both stability and better comfort at sea.
The boat is particularly quiet, thanks to the engine position behind the wheelhouse.
The wheelhouse on blocks, which has proved its worth on the previous model, also considerably reduce noise and vibrations and ensure a good acoustic environment despite the speed and the 2x455 hp on board.
The wheelhouse, glazed to the maximum, offer a 360° visibility to the crew, both seated and standing. The glazing extended to the roof allows a complete visual to come alongside moving ships.
The spacious wheelhouse can accommodate 9 people in a sitting position, including 3 crew members and 6 passengers. Aluminium is the material best suited to the construction and the operation of a pilot boat.
Among its many qualities, aluminium is a light metal and is not subject to corrosion in tropical environments.
It is also fully recyclable and offers an unmatched versatility to suit the ship owner's specifications.
Specification:
Design / naval architecture --- Geronimo Naval Design
Construction --- Alumarine Shipyard
Construction material --- aluminium
LOA --- 14.93 m
Hull length --- 14.35 m
Hull width --- 4.60 m
Max beam --- 5.18 m
Maximum beam --- 1.35 m
Motorisation type --- diesel inboard
Propulsion type --- 2 x propellers-shaft lines, V-drive
Installed engines --- 2 x Cummins QSM 11
Installed power --- 2 x 455 hp
Max speed at mid-load --- 23 knots
Service speed at mid-load --- 20 knots
Seats --- 9 (crew 3 + passengers 6)
Fuel capacity --- 2 x 1100 liters
Classification society --- Bureau Veritas
Regulation standards --- Meets the French divisions 222-236 standards
Category of navigation --- 3
Source: Alumarine Shipyard