This “state of the art” dive/tour boat is a further development in the Sea Cat hull design. The performance of this 21 Metre high-speed Aluminium Catamaran is outstanding and is based on “Bubbles” (design wise) which was launched late 2013. The hull is fuel efficient and semi-displacement which is proven in large seas and features high wing clearance, deep vee rounded chine hull forms and extra strong structure for extended life.
This version features walk around sides on the upper deck with large fwd and aft decks with lounge and seating big enough for all passengers to lie down. The lower deck features a spacious air conditioned day cabin with side located galley, servery and refrigeration to allow for the service of lunch and refreshments during the cruise. The foredeck is the most popular section of the boat and is extremely large with ample space for up to 40-50 passengers.
This is the 6th different custom catamaran design for Owners “Calypso Cruises” and joins the fleet as a Dive and Snorkel cruise boat, carrying out day trips to the Great Barrier Reef from the tourist port of Port Douglas. Each morning this stylish dive vessel heads out to the reef full of tourists from around the world and cruises out to the reef to experience 2-3 dives at pristine dive sites such as Agincourt and Opal reefs.
The aft’ dive deck has four toilets including hot and cold water showers and wetsuit lockers. The two stage hydraulic platform allows the passengers open access to the water. When down,the platform creates a dive stairwell and when up is clear of the water for high speed cruising and tender support.
Large fuel capacity matched with fuel efficient hulls give extended range capabilities for delivery voyages or in an accommodation version, extended cruising time. The powering is via twin Detroit S60 Engines (499kw) and prop/shaft for a speed of 27-28 knots. The 25 knots full load operation speed was easily reached. Fuel consumption is amazing with 23-24 knots cruising speed at 100ltrs/hr and each engine has a super economical speed of 20 knots at 75 ltrs/hr per side.
The design and kit combination (kit option 2) has been prepared in accordance with the NSCV (AMSA) Class 1C (96 divers plus 4 crew) criteria with Hull and Deckhouse to Lloyds Register SSC standard for offshore operations. The same design can be utilized as a ferry to carry 150 Passengers in coastal operations or over 200 passengers in partially smooth waters.