Trimaran - Challenges Experienced During Sea Trials

Initial full power sea trials in conditions of up to four metres significant wave height and 45 knots wind speed confirmed Austal's confidence in the 127 metre trimaran fast ferry.

Whilst the vessel met the key contract performance requirements it, most importantly, also demonstrated the trimaran’s ability to exceed the operability and comfort levels of existing large catamaran designs at the upper end of the weather spectrum.

Two unforeseen challenges were encountered during the sea trials. The first was the failure of the composite ride control surfaces initially supplied to the vessel. An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of this failure. Permanent replacement metal alternates have been supplied and fitted.

Secondly, while the trials conducted at full speed in sea conditions of up to four metres significant wave height and 45 knot winds confirmed the trimaran’s superior seakeeping and habitability, they also revealed that this capability could be improved in these and even more onerous conditions, with improvements to the software and hardware controlling the steering and ride control surfaces. With the cooperation of the customer Austal has now developed these items in conjunction with additional sea trials.

Austal Chairman, Mr John Rothwell commented: "Following an unprecedented five year program of research and development we are delighted to see this new fast ferry design exceeding our expectations. Having tested the vessel in conditions in which most current generation high speed vessels would have ceased operations, we recognised the opportunity to further improve our trimaran technology to deliver our customer and the ferry market a proven solution for routes beyond the ability of existing fast ferry designs".

Austal is now working closely with Flag States to achieve operability certification for the Auto Express 127 trimaran in 4 metres, or more, significant wave height.