Air-cushioned catamaran, high speed / high efficiency crew transport vessel with deck cargo capacity.
The AIRCAT 35 Crewliner has two side hulls like a catamaran, however with the added feature of flexible rubber sealing fore and aft between the hulls. Fans blow air into this air cushion between the hulls and rubber seals allowing up to 80% of the vessel weight to be lifted. The air cushion partly lifts the vessel out of the water, which greatly reduces resistance and allows for very fuel-efficient and high-speed performance.
The air cushion is also equipped with a motion damping system that reduces motions both at high and low speeds. This ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, as well as increases the weather window for safe offshore logistic operations.
The AIRCAT® is a Surface Effect Ship (SES) which has both an air cushion, like a hovercraft, and twin hulls like a catamaran.
Air is projected between the two hulls of a catamaran. This air forms an air cushion surrounded by the hulls on each side, a soft rubber skirt at the bow, and an inflatable bag at the stern.
In order for the vessel to maintain its position during transfers, the air cushion pressure is regulated creating an active motion damping system. The main advantages are unparalleled safety during passenger transfer and increased comfort. If required, the draft is also adjustable.
