New Type of Passenger Vessel from Canadian Shipyard

Strömma Kanalbolaget Turism & Sjofart AB (SKTS), a well known tourism organization in Sweden has recently purchased a new 48 passenger Explorathor high performance vessel from Recheres Et Travaux Maritimes Construction (RTMC), a shipbuilder based in Québec, Canada. The boat measures 45 ft. in overall length with a 12.5 ft. beam. It is powered with twin TAMD74C, 450 hp Volvo Penta diesel engines driving two model 356 stainless steel Alpha Power Jet, also produced by RTMC. The vessel has an ultra-modern appearance, and clients are attracted to some of the patented design features incorporated into its construction. While considering the purchase of an Explorathor boat the management at SKTS visited the RTMC facilities and shipyard near Quebec City with their own surveyor to critically review the fabrication methods and to conduct sea-trials. The Fabrilite system of fabrication makes it possible to build a new generation of lightweight yet robust aluminum hulls up to 130 ft. in length, capable of attaining speeds of up to 35 knots. The Explorathor is 20 percent lighter than any comparable boat is its class or size, resulting in a saving of up to 25 percnet in fuel consumption. This method of construction, which incorporated the extensive use of patented extrusions, provides a smoother and more uniform bottom contour from bow to stern than is normally attainable with conventional methods of aluminum fabrication. At the same time, the rigidity and strength of the hull is enhanced because the heat stress created by welding is kept to a minimum. The Alpha Power water jet incorporated some elements of aircraft technology to produce a higher propulsion efficiency than other conventional designs. Being built of stainless steel, corrosion problems are negligible. The jet can be adapted to provide either high thrust or high velocity characteristics, depending on the intended load and type of application. All the controls are hydraulically operated and utilize the "plug and play" concept of installation, and all the components are factory fitted and tested before shipment to the customer.