Hydrodynamics of large motor yachts - Past experience and future developments

The paper reviews the trends in tested designs over the last 15 years and highlights the lessons learned in the course of a long history of tests at MARIN for this type of vessels. It discusses the basics of motor yacht performance in calm water, manoeuvring and seakeeping and the techniques to investigate them in a numerical and experimental way. The paper finally highlights future (hydrodynamic) developments that could be made to enhance further the comfort and performance of motor yachts. Use of podded propulsion, bulbous bow or trim wedges, manoeuvrability at low speed, development of better controls for steering and rolling in transit and at anchor, development of combined rudder-fin controls, use of rudder roll control are presented.