Catamaran for offshore market
The “Whale of the Waves” was recently christened Photo: VEKA Group
The first ship was named “Whale of the Waves”. With a length of 19.4m, a width of 7m and a draught of 1m, the catamaran offers seats for twelve passengers. Two MTU 8V2000 M72 engines provide power for a maximum speed of 26 knots.
“Compared with a monohull, this ship has greater stability and hardly rolls,” said Veka project manager Robin Sijbrands. “On board a multi-hull vessel you are much less likely to become seasick. And that is important if you are carrying passengers.”
In mid-November, the Veka Group launched the first multi-purpose catamaran, intended for an African client. “During its first voyage, the ship was subjected to several practical tests,” said Sijbrands. “With the aid of the water jets, which also enable fast and easy manoeuvring in shallow waters, the guaranteed top speed of 25 to 27 knots was easily reached. And even at this speed turning sharp bends did not present any problems.”
A second catamaran is currently under construction and will be completed in February 2013.
