COMING SOON TO A PORT NEAR YOU - THE 126 METRE AUSTAL TRIMARAN

摘要

This paper summarises the findings of a four-year investigation into the design of a large stabilised monohull or trimaran, and presents some of the characteristics of the vessel that have attracted an order for a 126 metre long 40-knot passenger and vehicular ferry for operation in Europe. The vessel is not a research project, nor does it represent a demonstrator vessel, rather it is a fully developed commercial product. The superiority of a trimaran over a catamaran and a monohull when operated on some routes is demonstrated, and practical guidance is given on the location of the amahs. Some structural details of the design are given. Finally, some information is presented on the General Dynamics/Austal team bid for the LCS project for the US Navy, using a similar 126 m trimaran platform and capable of speeds of up to 52 knots.