Damen and its partners have won the Royal Netherlands Society for Marine Engineering's (KNVTS) 'Ship of the Year Award' for the self-righting search and rescue vessel 'Nh1816'.
Announced at an awards ceremony in Rotterdam, the 'Nh1816' is the first vessel within Damen's SAR 1906 series. Developed in collaboration with the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution (KNRM), Delft University of Technology, and De Vries Lentsch Naval Architects over a five-year period, the vessel type is the future "big boat" of the KNRM fleet.
Featuring an aluminium hull and composite wheelhouse, the self-righting vessel is capable of speeds of 35 knots. The hull design also incorporates Damen's distinctive "Sea Axe" bow technology – albeit adapted for specific operation as a rescue patrol boat.
The first SAR 1906-series vessel was delivered to KNRM in early 2014. Looking long term, the series will supplant the storied Arie Visser-class. Fast, stable and efficient, the vessel is also designed to be easy to maintain.
In addition to the Sea Axe bow, the SAR 1906 is outfitted with retractable fins near the stern that can be lowered for more course stability or raised for extra manoeuvrability.
In the wheelhouse, fully integrated electronics permit real-time data exchange for ship-to-shore communications.
Crew comfort has been enhanced by reducing slamming, as well as the addition of special ergonomic chairs, climate control, improved visibility, reduced vibration and a marked reduction in noise levels.
