SLEIPNER Sleipner’s award-winning Vector Fins™ is the only top-performing stabilizer system for both cruising and at-anchor use. The fins’ patented, unique shape reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency — translating more power into actual roll stabilization. Sleipner’s actuators are typically 25-75 percent lower than others, making them easier to retrofit while saving vital internal space in the boat. As with the company’s world-leading thruster range, Vector Fins™ is the preferred choice for many of the most qualified boat builders worldwide. Sleipner are now launching a fully electric stabilizer system with 3rd generation Vector Fins™. For more details visit
www.sleipnergroup.com
Having hit the market running with their elegantly curved ‘vector’ fins that swooped the main prize at the DAME Awards back in 2013, the design has since received countless hours of tank-test simulation and ‘real-life’ feedback from owners and crew, as well as countless hours of operation on their own test vessels at sea. Looking like an eagle’s wing in mid-flight, the latest version has an even more pronounced upward rake than before and Sleipner claim the latest profile will offer up to 50% more stabilising force, compared to a flat fin.
The design has since received countless hours of tank-test simulation and ‘real- life’ feedback from owners and crew, as well as countless hours of operation on their own test vessels at sea
Marius told me: “The new design helps nullify some of the side- effects associated with the paddling motion of flat fins, such as yaw, sway and ‘anchor walk’, and as the fins also create a significant lift force, much of the added drag is also nullified, making these fins very interesting for builders looking for more sustainable stabilizing solutions.”
Rounding-up my report, I decided the best people to talk to was UK based independent installer and refit firm, Golden Arrow Marine, who are selling, installing and maintaining fin and gyro systems on yachts all over Europe, including the Middle East. Working with brands such as ABT-TRAC, Humphree and Smartgyro – Golden
Arrow Marine feel they have a stabilisation solution for almost every different scenario, depending upon vessel size and use.
Martin Bizzell, Engineering Director, gave me an unbiased view when he told me: “ABT-TRAC are one of the original manufactures and developers of active fin stabilisation for yachts and traditionally use hydraulic systems. These are heavy-duty systems with load- bearing components that are intentionally over-sized, to cope with all sea-state conditions and give long service life. Double sealed shaft housings, for example, require no maintenance between haulouts.
“These can be maintained by a good hydraulics engineer, with the central hydraulic system able to drive thrusters, windlass and capstans, deck cranes, and any other hydraulic power equipment on board.
“Stepping things back a notch or two, ABT-TRAC AC electric system is quieter in operation and requires less maintenance than a hydraulic system but is limited in vessel size it can be used on. Swedish built Humphree DC electric fins system, on the other hand, is very quiet, easier to install, but requires larger battery banks and is limited in vessel size that it can be used on.
“Useful features, such as 360-degree rotation, combats ‘anchor- walk’, but having full rotation means you can set the fins to gently pull at the anchor, which keeps the nose pointing to the wind and stops the wind rocking the boat from side to side.”
Modern yacht owners are more informed about the market than ever, and now they have their eyes on the cutting edge of technology for new solutions with the potential to improve the seafaring experience. Above all, the priority is maximising owner and charter guest comfort.
102 | WINTER 2023 | ONBOARD
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