Heesen Yacht Fitted with Seakeeper Gyro Stabilisation

Until recently, Heesen Yachts had not considered gyro stabilisation. But after a memorable sea trial in July 2011, the management team was so impressed they expect to be working with Seakeeper well into the future. In fact, the Heesen hull YN 16465, a 65m yacht due for completion late 2012, will also feature Seakeeper’s stabilisation system.

“Heesen’s 37m class was designed before stabilisation at anchor was considered standard for a luxury yacht,” said Peter van der Zanden, Heesen general manager, design & development. Instead of obtrusive fins, an internal stabilisation system was demanded and two M21000 gyros were installed on the new build.

“Aurelia is a semi-displacement yacht and therefore fins are a disturbing factor,” said Rob de Wijs, sales manager with Seakeeper’s Holland distributor, Kemper en Van Twist Diesel B.V (KVT). “Heesen had no experience with gyros, so they were uncertain if the predicted roll reduction could be achieved. After the sea trial, they were convinced.”

The two Seakeeper M21000 Gyros installed on Aurelia were tested at zero speed and while underway in extreme, rough seas three miles outside Slijkgat Inlet between Holland and France.  Wind was blowing northwest at 20 knots with 1.5m sea conditions. At zero speed, the gyros reduced resonant roll by greater than 55%.

The Seakeeper gyros were also tested during underway operation. Samples were recorded at speeds of 6, 13, 18 and 28 knots.  Through this speed range, the system reduced roll by an average of 50%.

“We were impressed with how well the boat handled with the gyros,” said Aurelia Capt. Brenden Scott. “They really helped with roll.  As a charter yacht we were looking for comforts at anchor, zero speed and while underway.”

High seas during the trial proved that Seakeeper gyros worked so well underway that even seasoned crew marvelled at how well they steadied Aurelia.

M21000 gyros are designed for larger vessels, Seakeeper is working with yachts up to 65m. The gyros’ powerful righting torque device is easily installed with no thru-hull fittings.  

For more information, please visit Seakeeper.