THE RIG

We have used the time honoured gaff ketch rig for good power low down to reduce heeling. It’s an easily manageable and bullet-proof set up. Our modern version features a main gaff, rigged for cargo handling. We will take full advantage of modern sailcloth and tough synthetic cordage. We’ll employ aluminium masts and set a squaresail with a carbon fibre yard. These downwind sails will be set like square topped spinnakers – no one gets sent aloft on this ship. There’ll be full cut genoas and yard topsails for those light airs and a roller reefing jib. An efficient rig is a cost effective rig.

THE HULL

The hull is to be built in steel for economy, strength, and a long life. With the weight concentrated down low in the ballasted double bottomed hull, the boat will be safe and stable. There will be seawater ballasted “wing” tanks port and starboard, for trimming, windward work and when lightly loaded. The hull form is of necessity flat-bottomed around the central cargo hold but finely shaped to a knife edge bow and a carefully contoured stern to ensure efficient, easily driven underwater lines. Bilge keels will be fitted so the vessel sits upright when the tide recedes. Twin dagger boards fit inside the bilge keels for enhanced windward performance. Above decks aluminium is used for the wheelhouse with solar on the roof. The cargo hold is battened down with tough synthetic canvas supported by aluminium battens on rollers. A fold-up solar array completes the hatch covers. The fordeck awning also has solar.

THE ENGINES

When the wind dies, twin electric motors will power the ship at a steady 6 knots for over 3 days. The motors will be powered by two generous banks of lithium ion or graphene supercapacitor batteries which in turn will be charged by the solar array and propeller generation under sail. Separate diesel generators will be installed for backup power.

THE CARGO

Versatility is the key here with a variety of cargoes able to be shipped. The hold will take 98 pallets or 4 x 20-foot containers or 2 x 40-footers. All container sized modules can be stowed and we have designed a two-storey accommodation unit that can also house an office, storeroom, mini laboratory or mini hospital – in fact anything container sized. Either side of the container in the central section are two smaller areas for general cargo or pallets. Containers aside, the hold can be filled with anything the traders need shifting and the gaff crane can load up to five tonnes on pallets or in a sling. Once battened down, a solar array is unfolded and secured over to ensure the battery banks are kept topped up.

THE CREW

A crew of three is enough to run the ship – a master plus two hands but up to seven can be accommodated. In order to make their life easier we’ll make full use of good reliable pumps, hydraulic steering, modern winches and up to date electronics with the emphasis on simplicity and efficiency so the crew are able to man the ship confidently in all conditions. The captain will have his own private cabin in the wheelhouse with the crew below decks.

THE PASSENGERS

The new ship will also take on six passengers in two cabins in the fo'c'sle. Each comfortable cabin has two bunks, lockers and a fold-down table and its own wc/shower. The foredeck is accessed via a separate companionway which leads to a good sized galley, shower, head, and general store. Dining on deck is via folding tables set up under an awning so the lucky passengers can enjoy those lovely tropical sunsets. Extra passengers can be accommodated in the specially designed two-storey container units with their own self-contained heads, shower, and power supply. These “plug-in” units are accessed from the side decks under mini awnings and feature a double bunk in a separate cabin and a lounge/dining areas. Down below are two more bunks, toilet facilities and services.

SAFETY

The health and safety of the crew and passengers is, of course, of utmost importance so all equipment including anchors, chain warps, sea anchors etc. will be of a good standard and all items such as safety lines, life preservers, emergency life rafts are full compliant to international standards. The ship’s boat also has foam-filled compartments.

Backup generators are also installed. Each motor and each cabin has independent circuitry and battery banks.

SPECIFICATIONS