VESSEL REVIEW | Yacht Servant – Dutch operator adds large semi-submersible newbuild to yacht transport fleet

Amsterdam-based DYT Yacht Transport recently took delivery of a new large yacht transport vessel built by Yantai CIMC Raffles Shipyard in China.

Designed by DYT parent company the Spliethoff Group, the Lloyd's Register-classed Yacht Servant is the largest vessel in the DYT fleet with an LOA of 213.7 metres, a beam of 46 metres, a draught of 4.6 metres, and deck space totalling 6,380 square metres. The semi-submersible newbuild also boasts nearly double the capacity of earlier vessels in the DYT fleet, allowing fewer trips to be made.

The vessel is capable of carrying deep-draught sailing yachts and accessing more remote destinations. The lower deck height means ballast time, and therefore port time, is significantly reduced, as submerging operations can be done faster than on sister vessels.

The newbuild also boasts greater operational flexibility. Whereas the current vessels in DYT's semi-submersible fleet require operating water depths of around 14 metres, Yacht Servant only requires an operating water depth of nine metres using a unique float-on, float-off system. The vessel also features a new specialised deck located behind the bridge to accommodate tenders, containers, small race boats, tugs, barges, military vessels, and even non-floating cargo such as wind turbine blades, allowing the company to serve a diverse range of clients.

"The vessel's unique design has been focused on creating the most efficient yacht carrier possible, while using our signature float-on, float-off method," DYT told Baird Maritime. "One of the main goals was to be able to float in deep-draught yachts and other vessels in shallow waters. When submerged in water depths of only 13.5 metres, Yacht Servant can load yachts and vessels with a draught of up to 7.5 metres, which is a great improvement over existing semi-submersible vessels."

Two Caterpillar-MaK 5,200kW, scrubber and SCR-equipped IMO Tier III-compliant engines ensure a 32 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency, and the hull itself is of an optimised design to help further reduce emissions. Auxiliary power is also available via two 1,400kW engines. The main engines may be configured in future to enable them to run on alternative fuels.

The engines drive controllable-pitch propellers to enable the vessel to reach a maximum speed of 15.1 knots while the service speed is set at 13.5 knots. If needed, it can stay out at sea for up to 60 days. The optimised hull form also improves performance in adverse weather conditions, enabling the ship to maintain speed while motions and accelerations are reduced as much as possible.

"The redundant propulsion and steering system is fully compliant with all current NOx and SOx emission control regulations. Double shaft lines, the controllable-pitch propellers, two flap rudders, and two bow thrusters are provided for excellent manoeuvring characteristics."

The ship is also equipped with anchors and spud poles to assist in station keeping and mooring. By arranging two spud poles, the ship is able to fix itself into position when performing submerging operations at anchorages or in remote bays. This ensures that the vessel remains firmly in position while yachts and cargo sail in and out of the vessel's hold.

A trolley system is arranged inside the hold to facilitate moving and mooring of large floating objects that may not always be able to enter under their own power. By using trolleys, DYT was able to move and control these large objects very precisely while not needing to rely on tugs for assistance.

"Our experiences with our existing vessels were taken into account to further optimise the loading process," added DYT. "The full-height stern door can be closed off immediately after sail-in has been completed, providing a full enclosed hold in which the cargo is safely protected from outside factors such as wind and waves from traffic passing by."

The ship's advanced systems include an environmental management system, a performance monitoring and optimisation system, a weather routing, motion monitoring and prediction system, and a marine advisory system from ABB. Electricity and water facilities are also available for use by yachts so that their auxiliary systems can be kept running while they are being transported.

"The navigation bridge uses state-of-the-art electronics," DYT told Baird Maritime. "The layout and arrangement are such that a full 360-degree clear view is provided from any navigation position in the bridge. A dedicated workstation for loading and submerging operations is also provided to give the crew a clear view of the hold and the loading operations while remaining in continuous control of ballast operations, vessel stability, and communication with the other crew and the load masters."

Accommodation spaces are available for the ship's 28-strong crew as well as 32 other personnel.

Yacht Servant will soon commence sailings on its intended routes, which will cover the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and Florida.

See all the other news, reviews and features of this month's Marine Engines and Propulsion Systems Week right here.