RPA 8: Fuel-efficient, low-wash patrol boat for Dutch waterways

摘要

Avessel capable of conducting its tasks "safely, smoothly and sustainably" was the remit for the Port of Rotterdam Authority's January-delivered patrol boat, RPA 8. The aluminium boat was designed to operate at high speeds while reducing fuel consumption and producing a minimal quantity of emissions. However, that was not the only consideration: RPA 8's duties involve negotiating a network of rivers, canals and inland waterways home to houseboats, commercial barges and pleasure boats, and so an eye had to be kept on the amount of waves generated by RPA 8. The Port of Rotterdam specified a maximum generated wave of 400mm at 30m from the boat at a speed of 20km/h (approximately 10.8knots). In response, RPA 8 was able to supersede this requirement by limiting its wave height at this distance and speed to just 290mm.