In increasing numbers, the problem of seasickness caused by excessive boat roll is being solved by refitting the vessels of yacht owners as well as charter companies with gyroscopic stabilization systems. Seakeeper, the world’s top company specializing in active gyro stabilizer technology for the leisure yacht and commercial marine industry, stands at the forefront of such retrofits. The recent installation of four Seakeeper M21000a gyros on a spectacular 46m Palmer Johnson superyacht represents the company’s largest refit project to date.
“When yacht owners and charter companies realize that boat roll can be significantly reduced, they want to know where the gyros can be installed in the yacht and who is qualified to do the work,” said John Kermet, Seakeeper COO. “Seakeeper approaches each refit by performing a complete installation evaluation. With factory trained technicians, we work closely with the installation shipyard to ensure the proposal is accurate and complete. And of course, the end benefits are more days and a more enjoyable time on the water for everyone onboard.”
Palma Refit performed the PJ installation with assistance from Seakeeper’s servicing installers, Nemo Marine Services in France and Global Marine Mallorca in Spain. The four M21000a gyros were a vital part of the 46m Palmer Johnson yacht’s extensive renovation, which included underwater hull profile modification, new propellers and a water sports area created in the garage/lazarette. The engine, generators, navigational equipment and security equipment were also upgraded. “Our wealth of local knowledge and experience proved invaluable for contractor selection in order to meet budget and time constraints,” said Marc Kelly, Palma Refit director.
Although larger than most gyro refits, this particular project is representative of the growing interest from larger yachts in this relatively new and highly versatile form of stabilization. “This success is a testament to the professionalism and expertise of our global installation network. We’re proud to have been a part of this project,” said Steve Shaw, Seakeeper global service manager. “Such refits are gaining in popularity, due in part to the easy installation and seamless integration of one or more gyros aboard craft of almost any size. A gyro also offers a significant improvement over a traditional fin-based system, providing consistent stabilization even when a craft is at anchor or zero speed.”
Ideal for larger yachts, each Seakeeper M21000a gyro can actively stabilize displacements to 90-100 tons. Calculations showed the 46m Palmer Johnson superyacht would require four units for proper stabilization. Actively controlled gyros use varied brake resistance to exert a powerful righting torque for maximum roll reduction in any environment, at any speed.
Unlike fin systems that are subject to damage and can create performance-affecting drag, gyro stabilization is completely internal. Seakeeper’s proprietary vacuum technology ensures quiet operation, maximum efficiency and an exceptionally low energy draw. It also makes for a space-saving design. Light and compact for their product class, Seakeeper gyros create flexible installation options for many vessel types.
“More and more boat owners are appreciating both the benefits of gyroscopic stabilization and the simplicity of its installation,” said Kermet. “With this project, we’ve proven yet again that a multiple-gyro refit can be accomplished with ease, and that the size of the craft is no barrier.”
