SWATH

25m SWATH@A&R® PILOT TENDER
Type:	SWATH (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull)
Concept:	Pilot Tender for rough coastal waters and tidal estuaries
Classification:	GL + 100 A5 OC 3 “Pilot Tender”
Principal Particulars:	Length over all Breadth over all Draught Speed Propulsion Power Pilots Crew Material:	LOA BOA dmax vmax P abt.	25,65 m 14,25 m 2,70 m 18 kn 1420 kW 12 3 Marine Aluminium Alloy
Deadweight:	Fuel: Lub. Oil: Crew & Effects: Fresh Water: Provision: Pilots: Deadweight:	10,00 t 0,25 t 0,25 t 1,00 t 0,45 t 0,80 t 12,75 t
Propulsion Concept:	2 Diesel each 788 kW 2 Generators 2 E-Motors 2 Gears 2 Fixed Pitch Propellers	Type MTU 12V 2000M70 Type Interschalt Type Interschalt Type Reintjes WVS 430 EU Type Schaffran
Individual Particulars:	Superior Seakeeping and Manoeuvring Capability	High Pilotage Frequency
	Low motion Parameters	Layout for 3,5 Wave Height

Video: SWATH pilotage

The vessel, which is 26 meters in length, is extremely stable as a result of two floating bodies that form part of the hull. This construction makes it highly seaworthy. The small surface area on the water-line, means that waves have a minimal impact on the vessel. Moreover, stability fins in both the floating bodies, which are computer controlled, enhance the overall behaviour of the vessel when underway by controlling and minimizing its rolling and pitching movements. Additionally, the SWATH can be lowered in the water (through increasing its ballast) by around 80 centimetres within the space of five minutes, enabling ships with a lower freeboard to be boarded by pilots more easily and safely.

The SWATH will be used to enable the piloting of vessels, taking over the tasks of both pilot boats and yawls. It will take the pilot to the incoming ship and will permanently patrol the piloting area. During its trials, its logistical processes will be closely followed and, where necessary, adjusted. As a result, the bringing into use of SWATH vessels by Loodswezen will offer a great contribution to realising the permanent accessibility of ports. They will be employed in the coastal waters off Hoek van Holland, IJmuiden, and in the Schelde area. The first SWATH was ready for use at the end of 2005 and delivered from the docks of the ABEKING & RASMUSSEN shipbuilders.