Netherlands

RH Marine 

Behind Amels’ semi-custom success at the Damen Yachting yard

 We travelled to the Damen Yachting shipyard in Vlissingen to talk to the Amels team and visit the first two Amels 80 units in build.


Behind the Amels 80's semi-custom success with Damen Yachting

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1552" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Radio Zeeland DMP (Company)">Radio Zeeland DMP B.V.</a>, one of the leading manufacturers of maritime electronics, has recently launched a new solution: the Z-Bridge. To hear all about the latest product from the Netherlands-based electronics company, we sat down with Benno van der Velde, Sales Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1552" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Radio Zeeland DMP (Company)">Radio Zeeland DMP B.V.</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247992/image/large-129aa61ba96bfb972ad3c15685120bae.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247992">What are some of the benefits that the newly-launched Z-Bridge offers?&nbsp;The Z-Bridge is a solid all-in-one pre-engineered system that has the coveted <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1452" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lloyd's Register (Company)">Lloyd’s Register</a> approval certificate. A typical installation comprises; intelligent modular foil control panels for bridge and outdoor control positions, a wheelhouse desk console and one or more NavCom racks. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The system can also be modular configured with a whole host of well-known navigation systems: Synapsis NX from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1988" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raytheon AnschÃ¼tz GmbH (Company)">Raytheon Anschütz</a>, K-Bridge from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6426" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kongsberg Maritime (Company)">Kongsberg</a>, Rhodium from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a> and the Voyager from Furuno.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248002/image/large-01d545ba7bb889ee104f4ab89470d726.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248002">What makes the Z-Bridge stand out from its preceding bridges?&nbsp;This new and updated solution not only has a fresh new design that’s more aesthetically pleasing, but it also hosts even more state-of-the-art interfacing features. We’ve worked hard to develop all areas; however, we’ve paid special attention to the automation, AV/IT, security and NavCom functions. Installation time has also been reduced by approximately 70 percent due to the new plug-and-play features of the Z-Bridge.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247996/image/large-4e5b1792b035b330d04b488b4716aff9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247996">Why should a client choose&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1552" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Radio Zeeland DMP (Company)">Radio Zeeland DMP B.V.</a>&nbsp;over its competitors?&nbsp;We are a one-stop-shop for the delivery, integration and installation of our navigation systems. At &nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1552" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Radio Zeeland DMP (Company)">Radio Zeeland DMP B.V.</a> we don’t sell a product, but a solution. We know the time, stress and efforts of enlisting third party agents for different areas of an installation – there’s a high risk of crossover. We’ve cut this out entirely and handle the process, start to finish, for our customers so they only have to have one or two conversations with us and we’ll handle everything. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247997/image/large-97b7ae9b1b629932ef27ea2b9020df71.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247997">Can you go into a bit more detail about this “high-risk of crossover”?As we handle everything in-house we not only source and manufacture the product, but we also handle the installation of our bridge systems. We can then have 100 percent faith in our solution; we run vigorous testing at our facilities of each individual component and part. Once we’re happy we then roll out the installation.The practical benefits of this is that we’ve got our own mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, project and field service engineers and lead commissioning engineers. Our clients don’t need to spend time sourcing manpower for a job and they don’t need to stress about time frames or running costs – we handle all of this.&nbsp;Installations can get a little messy without an in-house team as you need good communication and planning skills to work all together in such a small space. As I said, we’re a one-stop-shop and that is for everything; our clients receive a solution, not a product from us.&nbsp;

Z-Bridge the integrated system from Radio Zeeland

SYT joined radio Radio Zeeland to learn about its Z-Bridge.

Introducing the highly sophisticated integrated bridge system from Radio Zeeland DMP

What is it that we find so appealing about classic yachts? Like vintage cars, they have an irresistible grace and beauty that is hard to define and rarely replicated in contemporary designs. Visit any superyacht marina in the world and your eyes will be drawn to the classy classic yacht, possibly dwarfed but never daunted by its larger neighbours. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/48468/image/large-ff1614bf3305a0678ed5423170eb7010.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48468">“We get excited about classic yachts because their timeless design is the essence of yachting,” says Tristan Le Brun, the young captain of 42-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>, a classic motor yacht being rebuilt at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>’s refit facility in Makkum. “The whole idea behind <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> when we found the hull was to create a gentleman’s yacht that combined a classic soul with modern conveniences. The owner loves technical stuff and with help from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> we’ve pushed it even further, because in some ways she’s actually ahead of her time, which is fantastic for a 65-year-old hull.”&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> – meaning inspiration – was launched by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/160" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr (Company)">Amsterdam Shipyard Ltd. of Gerard de Vries Lentsch Jr.</a> in 1954 for the Pappadakis shipping family in Greece. One of the largest motoryachts built in the Netherlands at that time, the local press reported enthusiastically on her “sumptuously furnished and upholstered cabins”, “violet blue-tinted bathrooms”, new-fangled radar and white telephones that could be used “to make calls anywhere in the word from wherever the yacht may be.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/30012/image/large-a6e3f455bfd9723f1b91a0f3bb63b99b.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/30012">The yacht’s subsequent history is harder to follow. We know she won the grand prize for Best Restored Vessel at the Prada Classic Yacht Show in 2001, but by the time Le Brun came across the hull in the Maltese port of Valetta in July 2015 she was in a bad way. It wasn’t the first candidate for restoration he’d seen on behalf of his owner, but despite her poor condition she was the most promising.“We weren’t looking for any old hull,” says Le Brun. “I’d seen what <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> had achieved with refits like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3927" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monara25.8m (84'8&quot;)Feadship1969">Monara</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4052" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sultana25.8m (84'8&quot;)Feadship1969">Sultana</a>, so when advising the owner I knew they could offer the highest quality standards. But they also have a tight policy about which refit projects they’re willing to take on, so it helped that&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>&nbsp;had been built by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">de Vries Lentsch</a>. It’s been a massive challenge for all concerned, but I don’t believe we could have done it without&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>.”&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/70442/image/large-079b759483a25f1f129bc5fa185d32b6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/70442">Before the rebuilding work could start, Le Brun and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> supervised the complete dismantling of the yacht in Valetta, where she was stripped down to the bare hull. Original plans to carry out the steel work in Malta were shelved when it was realised more extensive treatment was required to save the welded and riveted hull. The steel sections of the partly covered deck were also badly corroded under drip trays that were blocked with grime. The hull arrived in the Netherlands in early April last year and was transported to a specialist subcontractor near Makkum, where she remained for the next three-and-a-half months.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119070/image/large-46c69851ea98bd5bd08c569b99e79108.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119070">“It wasn’t so much the corrosion as the fact the hull was bent and buckled,”&nbsp;says <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> project manager Pieter Dibbits.&nbsp;“It’s normal for yachts of this age not to be perfectly symmetrical and the cap rails, for example, weren’t at exactly the same height. The solution was to slightly tilt the complete hull, so now the keel is a little off the centreline but the deck is level. To avoid any deflection during the welding work she was bolted down to the concrete floor.”&nbsp;While the hull was undergoing reconstructive surgery, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> was fashioning a new aluminium superstructure to replace the old steel deckhouse removed in Malta. As there were very few original plans available and building started before the hull was on site, this depended entirely on laser measurements. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119116/image/large-348ea7b0d3f0df419c1ef4b1879e54a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119116">“The biggest challenge was to make sure everyone was working to the exact same lines and measurements,” says Dibbits. “Thanks to the 3D scanning we could do different jobs concurrently and start the time-consuming engineering work without the boat being physically present. In the end the new aluminium superstructure fit perfectly.” &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/70439/image/large-6dde32fdd50b418e342a602394d51e2c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/70439">The same laser technology was used to measure the interior volumes once the welding work was complete and the hull had been stabilised. Here again there was zero margin for error as, like most classic yachts, the ceiling heights were quite low (the new deckhouse was raised by 100mm to meet modern standards) and the beam rather narrow (6.86m). Extreme efforts were made to free up every square centimetre of available volume, even routing cable trays through the frames.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119118/image/large-b53c8ec14ecff8277fb31df63566dd78.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119118">A milestone decision early in the project was to substitute one of the onboard generators with a micro turbine. Micro turbines offer significant advantages: they are compact, vibration-free, low maintenance and very efficient with much lower emissions than conventional generators. Because they don’t require exhaust after-treatment to meet IMO Tier III emission regulations, valuable engine room space is also saved. But despite being widely used in the aviation and offshore industries, they are virtually unknown on yachts due to lack of certification – until now.“We worked together with systems integrator <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a> and Capstone in the US to develop its DC 65-D micro turbine generator for Lloyds certification,”&nbsp;says Ico Vergouwe, head of refit sales at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>. “The 65kW micro turbine suited the power requirements of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> and although it’s more expensive than a diesel generator, the initial investment can be recouped in a couple of years because the one rotating part is an air-bearing that requires virtually no maintenance.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119072/image/large-d2403346c78f52a5917847efb371cfbc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119072">There is another operational reason why Le Brun was keen to install the micro turbine that is central to the dual function of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> as a private yacht and commercial charter vessel:&nbsp;“On charter you find you’re pulling in and out of marinas on a daily basis,” says the captain. “The micro turbine is quiet with no emissions and the funnel exhaust system is compliant for use in harbour, so we can arrive in a marina and stay on generator power legally without disturbing our neighbours. This provides much more speed and reactivity than having to switch between ship and shore power all the time.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119120/image/large-658c23163fa956edbf3db305cf1ae466.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119120">The new interior layout has also been designed to fulfil the expectations of today’s charter guests. Above all, this meant maximising the accommodation. The original vessel had a two-tier engine room housing two huge <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2911" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Crossley (Company)">Crossley</a> engines weighing 18 tons each. Because the modern CAT C18 main engines, C4.4 diesel and micro turbine occupy less space, the aft engine room bulkhead could be shifted forward about 1.5 metres. This created room on the lower deck for four staterooms aft of the engine room, and a generous crew mess, large laundry and accommodation for seven crew forward. The owner’s stateroom is on the forward main deck and a third multi-purpose lounge with bathroom on the bridge deck can serve as the captain’s cabin on private cruises or an extra guest cabin while chartering.A technical challenge in the engine room was how best to dissipate the heat from the main engines, especially as the micro turbine also requires cool air to function efficiently. Usually this would be resolved by increasing the forced ventilation, but as the air intakes are inside the funnel (which also houses a Kymeta flat panel satellite antenna) next to the bar on the bridge deck, this would have meant uncomfortably high noise levels. It was decided instead to go the cooling route and reduce the air flow required by installing fan coils in the engine room with two dedicated chillers. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119119/image/large-7c439ccbead0650155d5143ec88b56fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119119">Wherever reasonable and within budget, attempts have been made to make the yacht as eco-friendly as possible. Heat from the air-conditioning chillers is recycled to warm the domestic water and energy is recovered from the exhaust air systems to reduce the power consumption of the chillers. A custom-designed recirculating hood eliminates the need for a fan coil in the galley and the yacht is also fitted with a system to treat freshwater of varying quality from dock supplies for spot-free washdowns without the use of detergents.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> was chosen by the owner to create a family-oriented and child-friendly interior that blends contemporary and classic elements in a sunny, Scandinavian style that also had to be suitable for charter in terms of durability and maintenance. This has been achieved by sourcing high-end but practical materials and solutions. There are no fitted carpets on board but only loose rugs, for example, which can be quickly sent away for dry cleaning or replaced if stained or damaged. And to ensure minimal disruption when servicing the guest cabins, everything the stewardess needs – fresh bed linen and towels, cleaning materials, and so on – is stored under the beds that can be raised on gas springs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119073/image/large-bf7935275503c7d10583dcab52a2912d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119073">“On most busy charter yachts and despite the constant upkeep, the interior quickly starts to look a bit tired,” says Le Brun. “Our goal is that guests have the same impression of immaculate freshness, as though no one else had been on board before them, day after day.”The transformation of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> is due to be completed this summer and the yacht will be based in the Mediterranean, although her captain would&nbsp;“not be at all nervous” about taking her across the Atlantic for a Caribbean season. The slender beam, long waterline and canoe stern provide an extremely efficient hull shape and despite her modest 600-hp CAT engines she is expected to have a top speed of 14 knots and a range of 3,500nm at 12 knots, which increases to &nbsp;5,000nm at an economical speed of 9 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119074/image/large-50945f27f6b7ce3f4b9268f7e40cd875.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119074">“I’ve no doubt that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> will be a very special lady,” says Sijbrand de Vries, general director of the shipyard in Makkum. “When I was invited to take a cruise along America’s East Coast with the Dutch owner of one of the iconic&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caravelle24.0m (78'9&quot;)Feadship1965">Caravelle</a>, I remember we were applauded wherever we went. I think it will be the same for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>&nbsp;every time she pulls into the marina.”&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/55401/image/large-6524e9c9dfc37e22bf131ecc39bea57e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/55401"></a>This article will be featured in The SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;now to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Restoring the 42m yacht Istros 

As her rebuild rapidly approaches completion, SYT takes a look at the radically modernised 42m yacht Istros. 

An inspiration revisited: Restoring the 42m yacht Istros

Having established themselves as one of the leading integrators and innovators of electrical and automation systems in the maritime industry. The average day-to-day for those at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a> involves work on electrical and automation systems onboard various types of vessels, including superyachts, patrol vessels, submarines and support vessels. One recurring commonality that these vessels share is a lot of cabling, network components and applications which rely on specific hardware components and large-volume computers, intensifying the need for service and maintenance. To improve overall lifetime costs and ensure lifetime usability, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a> has revolutionised the overall system infrastructure onboard yachts and other vessels.As the new infrastructure becomes the new foundation of the growing family of Rhodium products, SuperYacht Times takes a closer look at the company’s latest creation and how it reflects their mission to make ships smarter and easier to operate. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/104671/image/large-36b728e129b617bbaabd441d4019c37b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/104671">Virtualised towards the future<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a>’s next-level Integrated Virtualized System Architecture (IVSA) provides a universal system platform on which applications (like bridge applications, engine room automation, CCTV and energy management) are integrated. As a result, any workstation onboard can be used more effectively, the hardware is easier to upgrade and replace and applications can be updated independently. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/104675/image/large-c72a8b3e53c674a99702c3281f4ba081.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/104675">For new-build and refit yachtsAfter two years of R&amp;D, the cloud-inspired technology has received its first Wheelmark certification and is almost ready to be installed onboard the first vessels. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a> has found that by having one central infrastructure that complies with classification societies, including MED certification for the navigation applications, routine maintenance is made easier. Upgrades and replacements of the hardware and applications can be implemented while improving the usability.As an ideal solution for both new-builds and refits, the infrastructure can be installed on board any vessel during the design and construction phases and be modified to suit the needs of the vessel. For refit projects, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a> is able to upgrade or adapt the bridge without any extreme modifications.&nbsp; <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a> has a full system already up and running in their test facility and another system due to be installed on a marine vessel. To find out more, contact the company directly via the details found below, or visit the team at the Superyacht Pavilion (booth 11.511) during the upcoming <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="METSTRADE - 2019">METSTRADE</a> show, where a live system will be in operation and available for demonstrations. &nbsp;

RH Marine's next generation of system integration on display at METS 2019

Learn more about the latest infrastructure presented by RH Marine ahead of the upcoming METSTRADE show. 

RH Marine’s next generation of system integration on display at METS 2019

As the demand for the next generation of energy provisions on superyachts increases and new regulations require owners to ensure their superyacht is environmentally friendly, the opportunity has arisen for the industry to be more creative in their solutions. &nbsp;The upcoming IMO emission regulations for 2020 is set to cut sulphur oxide emissions and limit emissions from ships to help improve air quality and protect the environment. Having already invested in complete hybrid vessels, the superyacht industry is keeping up with the regulation requirements. The importance of going ‘green’ is not being ignored - <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>, Seven Turbine Power and Boskalis have joined forces in a strong partnership to introduce a revolutionary microturbine to the maritime industry. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/53804/image/large-893a1a4287b9abcd0eb10c8db9f5a9fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/53804">As a result of the successful collaboration between manufacturer, electrical integrator, yard and ship owner, the new low-emission microturbine will be launched during the METSTRADE show this week. The latest innovation in hybrid technology is an evolution of the Capstone C65 microturbine and consists of a DC65-D Marine generatorset. &nbsp;The 65kW turbine-generator set can run on a variety of fuels and is able to deliver a direct current to the grid. The DC power output of the microturbine is perfectly suited to integrate into hybrid-battery based systems and is highly efficient thanks to the lack of an AC to DC conversion step and the waste heat recovery functionality. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/53803/image/large-8328d0d0bb7e4e8697d47ff08dde84a0.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/53803">The notable benefits of the latest Capstone microturbine seek to improve comfort onboard while protecting the environment. The quiet and vibration-less operation of the turbine will be noticed onboard, as well as the low maintenance requirements. The main operational advantages of hybrid technology are its capability to function and emit low levels of pollution and emissions, thereby helping to improve the ecosystem. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/44636/image/large-0677b94b16672d0fe05023f34abaf42d.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/44636">With upcoming projects featuring the new hybrid innovation yet to be revealed, a superyacht which features a similar Capstone turbine is the 44-metre classic schooner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/948" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lethantia44.0m (144'4&quot;)">Lethantia</a>. The custom-built system provides power and heat for the sailing superyacht. The stainless steel heat exchanger captures the yacht’s heat to produce hot water and allows <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/948" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lethantia44.0m (144'4&quot;)">Lethantia</a> to operate on shore power while in the marina. &nbsp; <img src="/uploads/store/photo/53831/image/large-831070e280bbde3234f38c3035ad5252.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/53831">As the undisputed expert in the field of maritime hybrid energy management, RH Marine are already well invested in providing solutions to drive the adoption of hybrid energy in the superyacht industry. As an industry that relies so much on a clean and thriving planet, what is the next step in hybrid technology? “Now that we have the know-how of integrating a hybrid system onboard including energy storage system (such as batteries), it enables us to use eco-friendly power supplies. It is possible to place any power source onboard once you know how to optimally integrate energy storage into the system. We, RH Marine, already have a lot of experience with integrating power electronics and batteries. Now, we are very pleased that we can integrate such a clean power source like the microturbine into our hybrid power system.”&nbsp;says Michiel Post, Technical Product Manager at RH Marine. &nbsp;The microturbine will be displayed and launched during the METSTRADE Show 2018 at stand 11.511 of RH Marine.

METSTRADE 2018: RH Marine and partners introduce new low emission Capstone microturbine

The superyacht industry is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of protecting the environment, so it is imperative that the future of yachting is one that is kinder to our oceans, seas and air. Behind this notion, industry governmental bodies such as MARPOL have issued international conventions to deal with the protection of the marine environment.&nbsp;The MARPOL Convention is one of the most important international marine environmental conventions and seeks to govern marine and air pollution. More specifically, Annex VI entered into force in 2005 and regulates yacht emissions, and Annex I deals with oil pollution from all yacht machinery. The global fleet consists of over 4,800 superyachts currently in operation and so, those who are not working to become more sustainable, investing in green technologies and becoming efficient with a low impact on the environment are going to get left behind.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/23943/image/large-5b6d84cdb7fa55934bdba508308adc3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23943">In order to keep the amount of damage caused to the marine environment to a minimum, the common power generation systems are being extended with new hybrid solutions. Although the diesel engine is a relatively efficient way to produce a lot of power, it produces pollution in the form of noise, vibration, soot and toxic gases such as nitrogen oxide.&nbsp;Eco-conscious hybrid systems are taking over. They operate by creating choice in power generation. Therefore automatically switching between electric batteries and diesel engines, optimising the yacht’s energy distribution and therefore keeping emissions and fuel consumption as low as possible. By using a smart automation energy management system, the demand and consumption of fuel is reduced. Aside from reducing engine maintenance costs by up to 50%, a yacht can benefit from a more reliable shore supply via hot standby and up to 11% reduced fuel consumption. The engine will also be quieter with fewer vibrations, allowing those onboard to enjoy the journey and take in nature’s surroundings even more.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/43210/image/large-8491e8acf76178b153fef8648c99742e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/43210">“To preserve our future environment, the industry needs to be one step ahead with futuristic notions, technology and products to make ensure that we preserve the oceans and the wildlife we love so much. Everyone knows, or is able to quickly access information, on why reducing the consumption of fuel and switching to a more sustainable material is all of our responsibility,” said Product Manager Hybrid Portfolio, Despoina Mitropoulou. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/48174/image/large-0ca6dab47b41d236d27595e4b063265f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48174">To make the transition from conventional yacht to hybrid as simple as possible, RH Marine offers three pre-engineered hybrid packages: Light, Basic and Extended packages. With world-class shipyards such as Amels and Feadship as their biggest clients, one leading superyacht already benefiting from an RH Marine hybrid solution is motor yacht Savannah.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/48175/image/large-0e8cea66534b37659103cf7c06eafbf1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48175">With every new-build yacht, the installation of a hybrid system is already considered in the proposal and conceptual design process, and so, RH Marine have made their packages suitable for yachts undergoing a refit. Their efficient process involves conducting an inventory, fixing a design and the technical specifications and then finishing with a practical refitting plan - all of which makes the modification of a conventional to a hybrid power system on an existing yacht a smooth operation.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/17175/image/large-f8c08299a1a52ca52ce3f94e486540ae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/17175">“At RH Marine we actively encourage the use of hybrid technology to help secure a healthy future for the environment which us in the yachting industry enjoy so much. We have currently refitted over 100 superyachts, and it is great to see how RH Marine are able to make a brilliant machine such as a superyacht, even better,” said Bart Lamme, RH Marine Sales Manager.&nbsp;

A green future is the focus with RH Marine hybrid technology

As 2017 draws to a close, the Dutch maritime electrical and automation system integration experts RH Marine are celebrating one of their strongest years to date.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/14015/image/large-c6592693f5a97b4379800d646983ef9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/14015"> As an independent systems integrator in the maritime industry, RH Marine B.V. installs electrical and automation systems in luxury yachts, defence, safety and security and special vessels. The company combines these systems into a whole, enabling ships and platforms to operate and communicate more efficiently. With more than 150 years of experience behind them, RH Marine is able to service, modify or refit the electrical and automation systems in any motor yacht on the water today.In a major step for the company, in September this year, Pon Holdings (‘Pon’) announced its 100% acquisition of RH Marine. Pon, one of the biggest family companies in the Netherlands, is a leading global business with close to 13,000 employees and operations across 32 countries. As RH Marine operates across industries including defence and yacht building, this complements the operations of Pon subsidiary Bakker Sliedrecht. Both RH Marine and Bakker Sliedrecht will operate autonomously within the Pon organization and will be able to serve the global maritime industry even more efficiently through their excellent, targeted collaboration.With the company’s roots spanning back to 1860, RH Marine has extensive experience in electrical automation system development, with a proven track record of delivering excellent services onboard. However, the company never rests on its laurels and has been one of the industry’s technological pioneers since its foundations.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16779/image/large-1078618c07f4c4ae077160fe32b53c99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16779"> This proven track record has certainly served RH Marine well this year: in September, the company’s Netherlands office announced three orders from various shipyards across the Netherlands for electrical and automation solutions onboard luxury superyachts, with a total order-value of 13 million euros.&nbsp;These new superyacht orders will all be built in the Netherlands, with sizes ranging from 55 meters to almost 90 meters. With the shipyards making the most of RH Marine’s diverse services, the recent orders consist of a combination of integrated systems: integrated bridges, alarm, monitoring and control systems, propulsion, platform automation and electrical installations. In addition, with 300 employees across four different countries currently working for the company, RH Marine has recently opened a new office in Barcelona to meet the growing demand for refitting and servicing yachts sailing in the Mediterranean.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16790/image/large-56a48c376e3304194f8b780b75385cb0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16790"> A forward-looking company, RH Marine saw the market for yacht refit projects growing substantially and acquired a large base offering service, upgrade, refit and rebuild expertise for electrical and automation systems - including the bridge navigation and communication devices - in order to meet this demand. RH Marine’s new office is located at the premises of Shipyard MB92, centrally located in the vicinity of important marinas including Port Vell in Barcelona, Vilanova Grand Marina in Vilanova i la Geltrú and Port Tarraco in Tarragona. This enables RH Marine not only to service and refit superyachts but also to deliver swift and effective service on the spot.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16780/image/large-8242761a6abfdb87233aa50a30f1da18.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16780"> Finally, the forward-looking character of the company has been demonstrated this year, with the launch of their latest products, the Rhodium Alarm Monitoring &amp; Control System, as well as a 55” voyage planning station which can fully replace the paper chart on board your superyacht. Through these products, RH Marine can round off a highly successful year and can be seen to deliver true innovation in automation.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16774/image/large-85993cc42351bf8f58ea3539f3035da1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16774"> RH Marine will be present at METSTRADE at the Superyacht Pavilion from 14 – 16 November at the RAI Amsterdam. Visit them for live demonstrations at stand 11.511.For more information about RH Marine and the services they provide, visit their<a href="https://www.rhmarine.com/">&nbsp;website,</a> or use the contact details below.&nbsp;

RH Marine celebrates year of successes

Following the recent acquisition by Parcom Capital and Pon Holdings, Imtech Marine will now be known as RH Marine Group, a company built upon Radio Holland and van Rietschoten &amp; Houwens. Radio Holland will keep its name but enjoy a fresh new logo, with the team announcing a strategy to strengthen the company’s On Board ICT.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156988/image/large-b6b6e5fc2a9782220559ddeb2bafa82d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156988">RH Marine is the leading system integrator and full-service provider of state of-the-art technology to support the core processes of complex ships, with innovative solutions in electrical, automation systems and HVAC. As a Maritime System Integrator, RH Marine is active in a number of dedicated markets including: navy, megayachts, special vessels &amp; ferries and cruise ships. Its innovation focus is directed towards hybrid power solutions, future proof ship automation and performance management.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156989/image/large-3730b12de67ab5bd7a39596e3bc0d6e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156989">René ten Brinke, CEO of RH Marine Group comments: “The rich heritage of the founding companies, Van Rietschoten &amp; Houwens, dating back to 1860, and Radio Holland dating back to 1916, played a key role in the new naming. With both companies’ initials being RH, it made sense for us to integrate those letters into the new naming and implement a new, sharp and colourful branding for RH Marine Group, Radio Holland and RH Marine.“Our fleet of brands including Radio Holland, RH Marine, Van Berge Henegouwen, Venteville, Techsol Marine, Elkon, Schiffbau-/Dock Bautechnik and Tess will all keep individual names and branding styles and focus on their key specialisms, technology expertise and target markets to deliver customised, flexible solutions which closely align with customer's’ requirements. In a sense, this is a new start and we’re looking forward to the future.”By Gemma Fottles

RH Marine Group launched following Imtech Marine acquisition

ONE is a new company, that specializes in Audio, Video, Information and Communication Technology. In this field of expertise, the company offers a substantial range of advisory services, project realization, support and product development, all overseen by industry experts with years of experience in their respective fields. ONE clients are owners, management companies and builders of yachts and luxury real estate.The ONE team is an experienced group of specialists that are in the forefront of research &amp; development while being practical in their approach to solutions for human interface and operational reliability.Management of ONE is in the hands of well-respected industry professionals, Arjan Kleinveld and Andre Klepper, both passionate about innovation, technology and efficiently meeting the needs of high profile clients. Arjan Kleinveld decribes ONE as: "a purpose-focused group of subsidiary companies, which together support the parent brand goals while remaining independent in the scope of work and sensitivity of client information".With the underwriting of Wright Maritime Holdings LLC, a WMG partner, ONE has deepened its business experience and corporate values."The direct result is sustainability with consistent business practices for excellence", Kleinveld continues, "we are determined to provide exceptional service while achieving the clients’ best interests".By Gemma Fottles