International Hydrofoil Society Correspondence Archives…
(Last Update: 10 Dec 03)
Return to Posted Messages Bulletin Board
Correspondence
Fast Ferry Expert to Assist in Procurement of Fleet
[10 Dec 03] Recieved from Tom. Thanks for the listing on your site. yes, I have found the help I was looking for, and you can discontinue the listing at this time. Thanks again, Tom Dempsey
[14 Oct 03] My company is looking for a fast ferry expert to assist in the procurement of a small fleet of catamarans or hydrofoil vessels. We will consider purchase, lease, or joint venture partnership. Vessels must carry up to 150 plus passengers and travel at a minimum speed of 35 kts. Please contact me if you are interested and want more information. — Tom Dempsey dempsuryy@aol.com
CYCLONE for Sale
[28 May 02] A CYCLONE hydrofoil formerly owned by a Greek Owner and used in Greece for the past three years is for sale in Sebastopol, Ukraine. The vessel was built in Feodosia, Ukraine in 1994-1995 and is a two deck vessel. Vessel will be renovated and is for sale for a price of US$2M.Vessel has capacity of 250 persons (additional passenger seats can be added). Speed is reported to be 45 kts. For additional information, please contact me. — Tom Schneider (intermargrp@aol.com)
Two (2) Jetfoils For Sale[20 Apr 02] International Broking Services offer two Jet Foil Passenger Ferries EMERALD WING and CRYSTAL WING for immediate sale and delivery in Japan (Our Ref: PF 4738). Owners prefer to sell both vessels and all spares as complete package. These two vessels have operated successfully on a busy commuter route and are in very good condition. Each comes with 2 x spare main engines and extensive spare parts. The sellers are also able to provide extensive maintenance and operational assistance to buyers. These vessels have proven very good sea keeping ability and passenger comfort in rough conditions, and are able to operate at high speed in all sea conditions. Basic details are as follows: Length: 30.33m; Beam: 8.53m; Draft: .40 – 2.00m foilborne, 5.40m hullborne with foils extended; Tonnage: 165 Gross Tons; Top Speed: 46 kts; Service Speed: 43 kts laden; Passenger Capacity: 230 passengers ; Crew Capacity: 3 x Bridge Crew + Cabin / Deck crew, Normal operating crew 6 total; Built: June 1994 by Kawasaki Heavy Industries; Designer: Boeing / Kawasaki (KHI Jetfoil 929 – 117); Construction: Aluminium; Class / Flag: JG Class / Japanese Flag; Rating / Survey: Smooth Water coastal; Main engine/s: 2 x Alison 501 KF Gas Turbines; Power: 2 x 3750 Hp (2795 Kw) at 13 000 rpm; Propulsion: 2 x Powerjet 20 (Rocketdyne) Water jets ; Fuel Consumption: 1200 L/Hr at 42 – 43 kts; Auxiliary: 2 x Perkins 120 Hp (90 Kw); Generator: 2 x 450v 75 kva; Fuel Capacity: 15 900 L; Water Capacity: 200 L; Remarks: Photos and extensive details available; Inspection: Japan; Price: ¥ 1 000 000 000 (approx. US$ 8 000 000) each inclusive of spare parts. Information supplied in good faith but without guarantee, subject to availability. — James Aitkenhead (mail@intbrokers.com.au) Level 10 “Seabank”; 12 Marine Parade; Southport 4215; Queensland Australia, PH: +61 7 5527 0159 FAX: +61 7 5532 7466 |
|
Shipping a Hydrofoil[30 Apr 02] As you might understood viewing our web-site, we are involved in freight forwarding of heavylift, extrasize and project cargoes, including all types of hydrofoils, which we have transported a total quantity of more than 20 units during the last 10 years of Mortrans performance. Just last week we loaded onboard 2 hydrofoils in Toronto. We have close contacts not only with shipowners and charterers, but also with several shipbuilding plants, trade brokers and repairing yards. We can assist you in the different matters of hydrofoil industry and answer all questions arising. Please feel free to contact us whenever you need any assistance in a related area. — Denis Negodaev, Project manager (mortrans@solaris.ru) |
 Two hydrofoils from Puerto Rico to Quebec in 1999 |
 Four hydrofoils to Shanghai, China in 1998 |
 St.Petersburg, Russia to Shanghai, China in 1996 |
ALBATROSS Restoration in Alaska
[28 Apr 02] There is what I believe is an ALBATROSS I in the boat yard here in Anchorage, Alaska. It is in very poor condition but the hull appears to be sound. I think the glass is still intact. When I first saw it, I thought it resembled an old oil field service boat. I am interested in the restoration of this boat. I’ll have to inquire about its sale. Are technical documents available for the fabrication of such things as the foils and reassembly of the interior? — Britt Goudey (BRITTGOUD@aol.com)
Response…[7 Nov 02] I suggest you contact Robert Miller cbbi@aol.com who converted an Albatross into a houseboat. — Barney C. Black (Please use the BBS to reply)
MANU WAI Update
[28 Apr 02] Just to give you a brief update on MANU WAI, I have been doing considerable work on engine, turbochargers and intercoolers in preparation for re-classification with ABS for for my own plans in Sydney subject to decision of prospective buyer in Melbourne when all is fixed and vessel is fully operational again. I propose to start weekend only tourist trips to Broken Bay, one hour north of Sydney, last weekend in September up until first week in December then from December 07 to operate a daily service until end of March, a total of 16 weeks.I’ll be doing this whilst on Long Service Leave and Annual Leave over summer which should enable me to determine whether or not the route is viable, also with regard to a larger hydrofoil if all goes well. The PT20 is too small to handle the rough seas that will be encountered throughout the year making it very difficult to guarantee a reliable service. I expect to be able to operate at least 70% of scheduled trips over summer from a weather perspective, with a PT50 that should increase to around 90% throughout the year making it possible to gain the confidence of Tour Operator’s and booking agents. More detail of my plans in recent Classic Fast Ferries which you have probably already seen. For MANU WAI photos, click here and click here. — Garry Fry (gfry@vtown.com.au)
Need Italian Hydrofoil Contact
[28 Apr 02] Have made numerous attempts to get information out of a Mr Antonio Scotto from SNAV in Italy with regard to vessels for sale but as with virtually every previous attempt to get any information out of Rodriquez or any Italian hydrofoil operator, they do not respond. If you know anyone over there that might be able to get them to acknowledge me please let me know. — Garry Fry (gfry@vtown.com.au)
Response…[22 Jun 02] I am a friend of Mr. Scotto and people who run SNAV from Napoli to Ischia …Is that of any help?…if so contact me — H.E Tom P. Sottile (t.sottile@inpaca-canada.com)
High Speed Vessel Wanted
[20 Apr 02] A French society in Nice / Cannes wish to hire a high speed boat or a hovercraft for five days in Feb 2003 and others periods too. 50 people or more. Short trips, alongside French coasts. Who would know were we can find that ? — CAPT M. Paris (ocv807@aol.com)
Response…[27 May 02] Please try to contact Hoverwork Ltd. Cowes, Isle Of Wight, UK. They are able to charter a AP 1-88 Hovercraft (101 Pax). Link: http://www.hoverwork.co.uk/ — C. Schramm (Chr_Schramm@gmx.de)
Jones Act – Special Case
[15 Mar 02] Looking for craft to run service from Galveston TX area — to foreign flag craft 100 miles out into the Gulf of Mexico. I Presume there are no Jones or Passenger Act violations, as it is not “between” US ports. — Earl Smith (earl@Neosoft.com)
Response…[15 Mar 02] I believe that it can be done, using the same arguments as in “cruises to nowhere.” That is every 28 days, the vessel would have to call at a foreign port, for example Mexico, Bahamas, etc. On the other hand, if the vessel that the ferry was going to is anchored, etc. the ferry could clear customs/immigration upon return to the US port. For example when involved in “lightering” tankers in the Gulf of Mexico, the vessel that takes the pilot/cargo measurers/etc has to clear customs upon return to the US. Hydrofoil of Russian design can be built in the USA for less money than a conventional US design or Aussie design, but for more money than a similar design would cost in Russia/Ukraine. The best example is the large number of Australian designs being built under license. Other examples are that nearly every US shipyard has an agreement to build with Aussie technology. The main advantage of a hydrofoil is that it can transit in a higher sea state (worse sea state) than a catamaran and go at a faster speed. (Read the “press” about the DEVIL CAT‘s inability to transit the southern Ocean from Australia to Tasmania). For example, a new design with a foil forward ( called a Foil Interceptor vessel) goes at a speed of 55 kts. This vessel carries 300+ passengers and is currently being in St Petersburg built for Helsinki – Tallin. It is due to enter service in May of this year. We have recently completed an agreement with a US Shipyard to build to the Russian designs. It is examining Russian designs at present and discussing building techniques, etc. We are talking to several potential customers. We have also arranged a trip to Russia in June to observe, etc. We would like the opportunity to discuss the project. — Tom Schneider, The InterMar Group (img@one.net)
PHIDIAN Update
[10 Mar 02] Here is a report on the condition of the hydrofoil PHIDIAN (correct spelling) The hull is in good condition. The paint is blistered in some places due to white powdery oxidization under the paintwork, probably caused by poor surface preparation in later repainting. There is no evidence of bad electrolysis. The main foil is broken at the centre strut, it was originally designed to supply cooling water to the engines therefore hollow. It has been fabricated by welding aluminum plate to a leading piece with the suction holes drilled. It appears that it has had previous repairs but the welds did not hold. My intention is to shape or have caste, a centre strut, and carefully weld it in place of the original, hopefully replacement will only be necessary below the small cavitation plate. There is also minor impact damage to the extreme outer ends of the main foil. Whether this is critical is yet to be seen, this area is out of the water when the vessel is foilborne. Other areas of this foil seem to be true and fair, as are the bow foils and stabilizer. The engines: The engine room, at some time, has been flooded with rain water. Two 12 mm holes were drilled in the lower transom so there would be no re-occurrence of this. As a result of the flooding the starter motors and alternators on both engines may be no good. (A friend and diesel mechanic told me “never write anything off until it has been thoroughly investigated and assessed”) The turbos need to be reconditioned. Both engines will need to be re-built (probably not necessary with port engine but recommended) I think, considering that the poor thing sat in the yard on a trailer at the marina for nine years or more, this is not a bad assessment. While it may seem to be a fairly expensive exercise, the overall cost to put the vessel back into operation is acceptable. There is a lot of work to be done but I am excited! P.S.: I had to pump about 60 litres of fuel (not in the tanks) out of the fuel tank space. It was probably caused by the diesel return to tank line, but be aware that it can happen. — David Wakefield (allfish1@tpg.com.au)
PHIDIAN Handling Problems
[10 Mar 02] I have been speaking to people who drove the hydrofoils PHOENIX, PHAROAH and PHIDIAN. The report was that PHIDIAN had a disturbing characteristic of “walking” ie. slightly dipping the front port foil then as it righted, the starboard foil would dip, etc. etc. When the diesel engines were installed it looks like the main foil was moved back to counter the extra weight. The stuff I got from Vik Poremskis (viktor_por@yahoo.com.au) said that the main foil was installed just behind the centre of gravity and carried most of the weight when the vessel was foilborne and the front foils only carried about 10%–15%. My theory is that the vessel misbehaves because the main foil may have been set too far back, therefore putting too much weight on the front foils. I wonder if there is a formula as to the right position or is it going to be trial and error. Have you any ideas? — David Wakefield (allfish1@tpg.com.au)
Response…[10 Mar 02] You have described a very interesting phenomenon here and it would be difficult to ‘trouble shoot’ what the cause is without seeing what is going on in practice (for instance, does this occur in calm water? what is the frequency of the oscillation? etc). Certainly a change in the centre of gravity and movement of the main foil aft compared to the original design could be prime culprits. The sort of instability you describe sounds similar to problems that can be encountered on planing boats. Such craft can suffer from both porpoising and chine walking. Quoting from a book on the subject “porpoising” is defined as the combined nonlinear oscillations of the boat in pitch and heave of sustained or increasing amplitude, which occurs while planing in smooth water”. Chine walking on the other hand is a roll and yaw oscillation which, as the term suggests, means the boat rolls back and forth to plane on either the port or starboard chine. The latter is similar in nature to what you describe for PHIDIAN. While I am not sure what causes chine walking, porpoising can occur on a planing boat if it is running at too large a trim angle (i.e. too much weight aft). I would agree with your hunch that the problem on PHIDIAN may be related to its carrying too much weight on the bow planing foils, but the opposite could also be true. To check that theory, do you have advice that the problem has never been experienced on the other two Aquavits, and if so, do they have lighter weight engines and foils in the original position? Probably the best way to resolve the problem is through trial and error. Once you have PHIDIAN running, see if the problem is still apparent. If so, you could try shifting ballast inside the cabin to see if that helps to overcome the problem. For instance, fill a few large buckets with sand (certainly no more weight than that of the number of passengers permitted) and place them as far aft in the cabin as possible. See if that eliminates the problem. Then shift the buckets of sand forward somewhat and see if the severity of the problem changes. Once you have the best balance of weight on the foils, it should then be possible to ‘reverse engineer’ the weight distribution to determine the best position for the main foil once the ballast is removed and the boat is only carrying seated passengers. I would be happy to help with the trouble shooting if you find it becomes necessary. — Martin Grimm (seaflite@alphalink.com.au)
Hong Kong – Macau Ferry Route
[25 Feb 02] Hi, anyone knows which Hong Kong company designed the Hong Kong to Macau Hydrofoil? — J. Lee (josephine_lee9@yahoo.com)
Response…[25 Feb 02] I believe you are talking about the Jetfoils operated by Far East Hydrofoil Co., which is now a part of TurboJET, the new and single trade name. This company operates one of the largest fleet of high speed passenger ferries in the Asia Pacific region comprising jetfoils, foilcats, tricats and flying cats. It currently operates four routes, namely, the Hong Kong-Macau, Kowloon-Macau, Kowloon-Guangzhou and Hong Kong/Kowloon-Shenzhen routes. Shipping is the foundation of the growth of the Shun Tak Group. Shun Tak, through its subsidiary Far East Hydrofoil Co. Ltd., has been providing 24-hour passenger ferry service between Hong Kong and Macau. the public for almost 30 years. With the aim to further expand its market share on the Hong Kong – Macau route and its service and network to the Mainland China, the Shun Tak Group acquired a 50% stake in CTS-Parkview Holdings Limited (“CTS-PV”) in December 1998 and entered into conditional agreements with the China Travel Group to ultimately merge the shipping operations under the Group and CTS-PV. The merger was completed in June 1999. The Group now operates and manages the combined shipping operations through Shun Tak-China Travel Shipping Investments Limited, its joint venture company which is owned as to 71% by the Group and 29% by China Travel International Investment Hong Kong Limited. The main page of the TurboJET website is at www.turbojet.com.hk. There is information as to which vessels are used on which routes at www.turbojet.com.hk/vesseltypes_rev.htm and www.turbojet.com.hk/factsheet_rev.htm. This information indicates that several types of vessels are used on the KK-macau route, including Jetfoils built by Boeing, Foilcats and Flying Cats built by Kvaerner Fjellstrand (S) Pte Ltd., PS-30 Jetfoils built by Shanghai Simno Marine Ltd (CSSC), and TriCats built by FBM Marine in the UK. — Barney C. Black (Please use the BBS to reply)
PHIDIAN Has New Owner
[13 Jan 02] I recently became interested in hydrofoils. Anyway, I now own the PHIDEAN and thought you may be interested in a plate attached to the dash. It reads: AQUAVIT — VO32 BUILDERS: AVIOLANDA MAATSCHAPPIJ VOOR VLIEGTUIGBOUW NV DESIGNERS: AQUAVION HOLLAND NV PAPENDRECHT — HOLLAND. It is all Dutch to me, but you may be able to make something of it. I have lived in the Mornington Peninsula, Westernport area, Victoria for almost 30 years and have seen a lot of ferries come and go. The most interesting were the Hydrofoils in the early 1990s Little did I know that one day one of them would be mine. PHIDEAN one of the 3 craft that operated from Stony Point to Tankerton French Island. It has been stored, open to the weather, at the Westernport Marina for some 9 years, and — while the hull is in fairly good condition — the fibreglass topsides need extensive renovation. It is powered by two Volvo AD31 4 cylinder diesel engines which develop 130 HP each. When it was in operation it performed well but the engines will also need a lot of work to get them going. The centre strut on the main foil is broken, I feel that I can repair it. In the original design the cooling water was drawn to the engines through this strut and is possibly a design weakness. Water is now drawn through the stern drive legs. While the wiring for the most part is in very good condition and numbered, it means little until it is all traced from end to end. Information on foil sizes, cross sections, and dimensions, as well as on wiring would be extremely useful. I was hoping you might assist me in these areas.– David Wakefield (allfish1@tpg.com.au)
Responses…[13 Jan 02] A photo of the similar PHOENIX, with PHIDIAN in the background is on the IHS website at. http://archive.foils.org/gallery/phoenix01.jpg . Info on the background of this and her sister Aquavit craft in Australia is on the IHS website at http://archive.foils.org/buyferry.htm. Also, I have posted various test reports, sales brochures, etc. Due to the rather large files sizes, I have put these onto Freedrive.com. If you want to access them, use the following link: http://www.freedrive.com/ASP/PostFolderShortcut.asp?fsc=27997828 to go to Freedrive and sign up for a free account. By using the link, IHS’s folder will be visible and accessible from your free account. Also, feel free to contact Vik Poremskis (email: viktor_por@yahoo.com.au), who provided this information to us and who personally has an Aquavit 10P. — Barney C. Black (Please use the BBS to reply)
[13 Jan 02] It is interesting to hear from another ‘owner’. My craft is serial number 31 and is fitted with twin Volvo Penta AQ110 engines. I have seen the photo of PHIDIAN (Ser # ?) at IHS web site. Does it still look as good as the picture? I understand that the fibreglass needs renovation. Do you know what happened to the other 2 craft? Re: the centre strut – I have not had any problems as such, however am doubtful about the design also. Internal corrosion could be big problem, and would be difficult to detect, let alone the small size / low water flow rate. I would like to fill the water gallery with some yet to be determined material. If you require I can prepare a detailed dimensioned diagram in CAD [sections and stations] of the centre strut (vertical portion) if that would be of any assistance. I shall get started this week-end. I have prepared a full electrical schematic diagram relevant to my craft (petrol) that should be pretty close to yours (diesel). It was prepared in CAD, and if you have access to CAD I can provide you with either a DXF or DWG format file for you to print. If you don’t have CAD, then I will get a diagram printed and post it to you. Sheet size is about A2. If you don’t mind, can you tell me how much your craft cost – just curious, more than anything else. Incidentally, have you been to the FreeDrive site mentioned on the IHS web site. I supplied a lot of material to IHS which was the placed on FreeDrive for those interested. All the material I supplied relates to the Aquavion range of craft. — Vik Poremskis (viktor_por@yahoo.com.au)
[26 Jan 02] BUILDERS: AVIOLANDA MAATSCHAPPIJ VOOR VLIEGTUIGBOUW NV = “Aviolanda company for aircraft construction NV”. The Dutch “NV” is similar to “GmbH” in Germany or “Pty Ltd” (Proprietary Limited) in Australia. AQUAVIT — VO32 = This is probably simply the production number of the Aquavit? i.e. it is number 32 built? Vik Poremskis indicated his Aquavit was serial number 31 so that would make them very close sisters. Indeed, I was once told that a batch of them came out to Australia on a ship many years back and they are possibly part of that batch. Phoenix was serial number 34. DESIGNERS: AQUAVION HOLLAND NV, PAPENDRECHT – HOLLAND = The design company name and location of the designer in Holland, a town (and also municipality) called Papendrecht which is about 15 km South West of the centre of Rotterdam. The design company of Aquavion no longer exists. I don’t know about the status of the construction company but the Fokker company was involved in the construction of the Aquavion hydrofoils, so it may have been related to Fokker. This is evident on PHIDIAN by the signwriting on the side of the hull “Fokker Aerospace” and the large Fokker logo in front of the “PHIDIAN ” titles. The Fokker aircraft company of the Netherlands unfortunately closed down in recent years. In your posted message, you mentioned that the centre strut of the main foil was broken and described the details of the intake. I was given the opportunity to take a closer look at the PHIDIAN and PHOENIX in June 1994 and so am attaching some photos for the benefit of those that are interested to know more about your craft, after all a picture is worth a thousand words. In particular, I noticed the fracture in the foil strut at that time and took a photo of it. The foil must have grounded or struck some larger debris in the water as it is apparent that repairs to the strut and foil were made (body filling compound is apparent where an effort has been made to re-fair the bent foil). When I spoke to the owner of the new ferry service at that time in 1994, he had told me that the hydrofoil service to French Island had been wound up in October 1992 because of engine seizure due to oil starvation on one of the Aquavits, and a bent foil on the second (obviously PHIDIAN ), while the third had simply been withdrawn when the service was ended. You will find other messages about PHIDIAN and her sister boats on the IHS website. The other photos show a side and aft view of PHIDIAN , a side and front view of one of the two bow foils on PHOENIX, the main and stern foil also on PHOENIX . In the stern foil photo can also be seen the pair of Volvo Penta 270 stern drives (with single prop per leg) of PHOENIX and the pair of Volvo Penta duo prop stern drives (with counter rotating propellers) of your own PHIDIAN . The stern legs have apparently been extended for use on the Aquavits by simply adding multiple extension sleeves to each leg!– Martin Grimm (seaflite@alphalink.com.au)
Ferry Venture in Tropics Proposed
[30 Dec 01] I am based in UK and following exploratory visits am looking to put together a consortium to run a hydrofoil/fast ferry service between certain tropical islands. Would welcome all discussions on a mutually confidential basis. — David Jacobs (david.projects@btopenworld.com )
Response…[6 Oct 02] Aluminum shipbuilding technology exists today that makes a 150-passenger hydrofoil affordable and reliable. Modern diesel engines are also available to produce the horsepower in a small, lightweight package. To my knowledge, no one has a state-of-the-art hydrofoil on the drawing board, must less in production. Hydrofoils are not now a “black art.” Any information required to design a set of hydrofoils to fit a particular vessel is available from many Naval Architects. It seems like money is the only thing that is slowing the development of a modern, reliable hydrofoil ferry. Everything else is available. — Ken Plyler, 10-year hydrofoiler (Kfppfk@aol.com)
SNAV Fleet
[16 Dec 01] I want to get more details about the current fleet of SNAV Aliscafi.S.p.A. Does anybody knows which hydrofoils are in service and their routes? Which cats does SNAV have? — Felix Marsteller (marsteller.honnef@t-online.de)
Response…[16 Dec 01] I have no current information on this. Fast Ferry International (FFI) magazine is the premier source of such information if you cannot get it directly from Aliscafi SNAV. You can also get the information from a recent edition of Jane’s High Speed Marine Craft. At one time FFI sold a database of all fast ferries and their operators, but that seems to have been discontinued in 1995, which is the latest version I have. The latest version of Jane’s that I have is the 93-94 edition. For SNAV Aliscafi, that book lists 33 hydrofoils of various types from PT-20 to RHS-200, one Westamarin cat, and one monohull. I will be glad to mail or fax you a printout from the database and/or the old edition of Jane’s if it will help you, but obviously I can’t be sure which of the vessels that operated then are still operating today. — Barney C. Black (Please use the BBS to reply)
[17 Dec 01] I was stationed in Naples, Italy from 1996-99, and rode the aliscafi (Italian word for hydrofoil) SNAV numerous times hopping between islands of the Bay of Naples. There is a map at the docks of all the routes there. Hope this helps. — Rob DeSendi, USS AQUILA PHM-4 (RDesendi@nsmayport.spear.navy.mil)
Passenger Catamarans Wanted
[11 Nov 01, updated 16 Dec 01] We would like to introduce ourselves, as a leading tourism and transport company for many years operating mainly on carrying passenger from North Cyprus Kyrenia to south coasts of mainland Turkey. We have the license for the above route and are operating with a high speed hydrofoil with a capacity of 150 passengers on this line. We would like to improve our business on this line and we are willing to include to our line 2 (two) passenger catamarans with the following specifications: Passenger capacity 200 – 250; MTU engine preferable; Fully air conditioned; 30 – 35 knot speed, or more; Built in year 1985 – 1995 or what you offer; Certificates to operate in full. We look for a lease purchase for the passenger catamaran with monthly installments and also we can buy, like to know what is the last price in cash. Or… We express our sincere decision to form a joint venture for this event, which details of this kind of business shall be discussed at your full satisfaction. We look forward to receiving proposals for the passenger catamaran suitable for this event. — Enver Hoca, Enver Hova Transport, Ltd; 42/B Atatürk Caddesi, Lefkosa Mersin 10-Turkey Tel: +90 (392) 227 4329 – 227 7929 – Fax: +90 (392) 227 3617; E-mail: (ehtltd@analiz.net)
Response…[10 Jul 01] Unistel Technologies (www.sun.ac.za/kie or www.unistel.com) offers a wide range of hydrofoil designs as retrofits to existing catamarans (hybrid systems). Feel free to contact me to put you in contact with the right persons, or clients of Unistel who have retrofitted the foils to their crafts. — Gerard Verhoef (gv@adm.sun.ac.za)
Have Vessel, Propose Joint Venture For Caribbean Tours
[9 Dec 01] I am the owner of a 1989 Meteor Hydrofoil. I am interested in a joint venture with a partner who might offer the management side of the operation within the Caribbean or southern Pacific. The vessel has had only 4 years of service and is in excellent shape. Seating capacity of 123; LOA – 114 ft; service speed of 32 to 34 knts; dry lease arrangement available or joint venture of overall business. Short term leases available as well. Serious enquiries only please. — Robin Todd (amti_hydrofoils@hotmail.com)
Joint Ferry Venture Sought in Caribbean
[16 Nov 01] We intend to operate a hydrofoil to serve the transportation of passengers between two points on an island located at the Caribbean/Atlantic. Our idea is to enter in a joint venture/partnership with a hydrofoil owner being the operation/management/manning from our side. From the service/market needs point of view, we are ready to start right now. The market is just there, and it is being served with very low speed vessels. There is an association of vessels owners, and we have done several negotiations with them to allow us to enter to that business. Our intention is to put faster vessels into service. Some important points to take into account: Passengers capacity: between 50 and 115 , Calm water at the area (suitable for hydrofoil navigation) ; Speed: no less than 35 knots ; Distance: 12 miles one way / 24 miles round trip. 4 to 6 round trips per day / 7 days per week. Note: there are hydrofoils operating at the southeast part of the island, where the sea is heavier. I will appreciate any information you could give me in this respect. ASAP — Ildefonso Guemez (ilgumer@hotmail.com)
St Lucia Venture
[11 Nov 01, updated 20 Jan 03] I am trying to find a listing of investors that deal with off shore high speed ferry transportation. I am proposing to set up a ferry service on the island of St. Lucia, to this end my partner and I are contributing a vessel to the service it is a” turbo cat 27″ with a top speed of 50 kt and a seating capacity of 180. I am looking for an investment company that would finance the shipping, insurance, and working capital cost of US$500,000.If you could recommend such please contact me. — Lynton Popo (lpopo@sympatico.ca)
Response…[16 Nov 01] Just some thoughts on your project: First of all it is important to ensure that the vessel that you are contributing to the High Speed Company is regulated for passenger use. Additionally, the value of the vessel can be put up for collateral for the project. If I can assist, please contact me. — Tom Schneider (img@one.net) Phone: 812 537 0609 Web Site: www.intermar-group.com
Aquavion Hydrofoils
[10 Nov 01] I live in Queensland Australia, but previously lived in Tasmania and prior to that, in Sydney. My craft is from Sydney, came from the back of a factory out at a place called Riverstone and is identical to the type of craft in the photo, but with different handrail around the deck. I have done a bit of research around the world and come up with a reasonable amount of info. Most of the Aquavion 10P craft were exported to Australia. (About 26 came here). I know that one was destroyed in Darwin NT during a cyclone and had tracked one down at Mackay Qld. One passed me on the back of a semi-trailer on the freeway once. Unfortunately it was going South, I was heading North and there was no way that I could turn around and catch up with the driver. I was quite a sight. Aquavion manufactured or had plans for a number of models: The Waterman, Aquavit 5/9, Aquavit 10P, Aquastroll 40P, and Aquabuss 400P. An extract from an article I have “After a period in which a number of prototypes seating 4, 5, 17, 24 and 72 passengers had been built and tested at sea, the subsidiary company Aquavion Holland N.V. was established to handle all technical and commercial activities. This company can now offer a range of standard designs, all based on the same hull shape without protruding foils, in sizes for 9, 20, 40, 80, 120 and 400 passengers…” I have a fair bit of this material, some on A3 sheets, including line drawings of elevations and plan views showing layout of machinery, seating etc, which I could post to someone or perhaps yourself, for use by IHS. The material would be too much to scan and send electronically. — Vik Poremskis(viktor_por@yahoo.com.au)
Responses…[10 Nov 01] I have posted various test reports, sales brochures, etc. Due to the rather large files sizes, I have put these onto Freedrive.com. If you want to access them, use the following link to go to Freedrive and sign up for a free account. By using the link, IHS’s folder will be visible and accessible from your free account. Here is the link: http://www.freedrive.com/ASP/PostFolderShortcut.asp?fsc=27997828 Also, feel free to contact Vik Poremskis (email: viktor_por@yahoo.com.au), who provided this information to us and who personally has an Aquavit 10P. — Barney C. Black (Please use the BBS to reply)
[10 Nov 01] I was amazed by the number of Aquavion hydrofoils you believe were exported to Australia. Up to now I was aware of only four Aquavit type hydrofoils in Australia: the one at Pittwater, and the PHOENIX, PHIDIAN, and PHARAOH, which had once apparently operated out of Strahan in Tasmania and later in Westernport Bay near Melbourne. I can send you photos of those as well at some time. I was also aware that a company called Tires Pty Ltd in Rosewater, Outer Harbour, South Australia had once owned an Aquavion Waterman. It had operated from Port Adelaide to Outer Harbour on an hourly service but educational and scenic tours of Port River, Adelaide were also conducted (source: Jane’s Surface Skimmers 1974-75). I would certainly welcome a copy of any information you have on the Aquavion hydrofoils. I have some information on them myself which I can send you if you don’t already have that. My information is mainly from the Journal ‘Hovering Craft and Hydrofoil’ from many years ago. — Martin Grimm (seaflite@alphalink.com.au)
Russian Shipbuilding Point of Contact
[22 Oct 01] I would like to give you contact information about the Shipbuilding faculty of the Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University (NNSTU). Our general e-mail address is: nntu@adm.nntu.sci-nnov.ru. The postal address is as follows: dom 24, ulitsa Minina, Nizhny Novgorod, GSP-41, 603600, Russian Federation. If you want your message or letter to go to the Shipbuilding faculty, then you have to specify: “For Mr. Naloev V. G., Dean of the shipbuilding faculty” . I don’t know Dean Naloev’s present personal e-mail, but I can give you his phone number: ++7 8312 367 309 or 325 904. It’s the phone of the Dean’s office of the shipbuilding faculty. Dean’s full name is Naloyev Valery Georgiyevich. Also, I can give you the fax of the NNSTU Rector’s office: ++7 8312 360 569. Again in this case you will have to specify the recipient of your fax: “For Mr. Naloev V. G., Dean of the shipbuilding faculty” . — Irina Andreeva (Ms.), Head of the International Relations Department of Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University. (andreeva@adm.nntu.sci-nnov.ru)
Using Foreign-Built Ferries in the USA
[3 Sep 01] I am considering whether to import a hydrofoil ferry for use in the southern USA. Is the US market protected from imported ferries? — Matt Kirk, Florida (matric39@gte.net)
Responses…[5 Sep 01] 1. Foreign built hydrofoils cannot be used in the US under the Jones Act which prohibits foreign built boats. However they can be used if the vessel “goes foreign” i.e. from Florida to the Bahamas, Maine to Canada, NY to Canada, etc. There is a possibility that a boat can be imported under a waiver from the Jones act with a contract to build in the US. To do this, it would take excellent relations with a congressman to get the waiver. 2. The InterMar Group represents Ukrainian (ex Russian) shipyards who build hydrofoils, for example Morye Shipyard in Feodosia, Ukraine and Volga Shipyard in Nitzy Novograd, russian. We also broker used boats, for example two Olympia’s, and four vessels in Toronto. 3. We continue to work on getting a shipyard in the US to build Hydrofoils. We are currently working on putting together a project in New England that would built the boats and we would import the foils. Please feel free to drop me a email to tell me more about your project. Based on the information, I’ll see if I can assist you. — Tom Schneider, InterMar Group (img@one.net), website: www.intermar-group.com
[5 Sep 01, updated 23 Mar 03] The Jones Act (also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920) comprises legislation that is often referred to as “cabotage” or “admiralty” law. The full text of the Jones Act (Federal Statute 46 USC section 316) and other information can be found at www.1800jonesact.com/. A spirited, partisan defense of the Jones Act can be found on the Maritime Cabotage Task Force website at www.mctf.com/jonesact.htm . There was a movement to revise the Jones Act back in the 1998 time frame, and a Jones Act Reform Coalition was formed. I believe that it was unsuccessful, however, and it may have since disbanded. Current information about efforts to amend the Jones act can be found at www-personal.si.umich.edu/~cejohns/JonesAct.html— Barney C. Black (Please use the BBS to reply)
[6 Sep 01] The statement is made that one might be allowed to import a foreign craft in conjunction with a program to build in the USA. I heard of that happening in Florida a couple of years ago (but I haven’t heard any more about it since). The idea was that the operator would buy two foreign-built craft and quickly follow up by building another three or more craft in the U.S. There must have been some rationale behind it that said it would be too costly or take too much time to build all of the craft in the U.S. And as Tom Schneider says, that takes some strong support from a congressman. A second possibility is represented by the approach Island Engineering (Bill McFann) has taken with a Norwegian SES. They apparently have approval to use that craft as a ferry in the USA, but I think it’s premised on the need to do a lot of work on the craft to refurbish it and make it fully acceptable for U.S. operation. That probably means they’ll spend more on it in a U.S. yard to fix it up than they’ve spent to acquire it in its present condition. — William Hockberger (w.hockberger@verizon.net)
[11 Sep 01] RE Tom Schneider’s comments about the Jones Act: on the internet page at IHA. I work for a company in Holland that operates 3 Morya built Voskhods and 1 Meteor. We are currently in the process of buying/building 3 new Voskhod 2M at Morya. These ships will be fitted out with all-European equipment and engines.I have always wondered why these boats are not marketable in the USA. You explained the Jones Act in your comments, but is it not possible to buy the ship in pieces and assemble these ships in the USA? Or does the material also have to be produced in the US. Every winter I visit my family in Florida, and I always wonder why there is little transport over water in a large water suburban area. I hope to exchange some ideas on this subject in the near future. — Peter Venema (p.venema@wxs.nl) Technical Manager “Connexxion Fast Flying Ferries” Amsterdam Holland
RHS 70 Hydrofoils For Sale SOLD by Red Funnel: SHEARWATER 5 & 6[26 Jun 01] The very successful SHEARWATER 5 & 6 hydrofoil passenger vessels were withdrawn from service 1999 to be replaced by the three larger Red Jet high speed crafts. The vessels are laid up in Cowes, Isle of Wight. Assortments of MTU engine spares are available along with new spare propellers and tail shafts. All certifications presently expired, but full records and service history available. Consideration would be given for the vessels to be sold for MTU 331 engine spares. — Steve Gillett (Sgillett@Redfunnel.co.uk); phone: Mobile 0044 7971 648832; Direct Line 0044 238072 4535 [28 Jan 03] Editor’s note: According to the Oct 2002 issue of Classic Fast Ferries (see page 4), the two SHEARWATERs were sold to Kon-Tiki, Ltd, based in Phuket Thailand, to be renamed COLONA V and COLONA VI, and to be operated among the many small islands, one serving as a dive boat, the other as a ferry. For details, see the article. |
|
New Meteor Being Produced in Russia[14 Jun 01] Zelenodolsk shipyard is producing a new version of Meteor, called Meteor-2000. Specs are the following: Length overall 34.6 m; Beam overall 9.5 m; Draught: -hullborne 2.35 m, -foilborne 1.20 m; Displacement: -light 43.82 t, -fully-loaded 57.24 t; Main engines: DEUTZ AG (Germany) – 2 ´ TBD616V16. Each engine with the power of continuous rating in tropical conditions about 936 kW (1272 h.p.) at 2165 r.p.m.; Diesel-generator – 1 ´ 44 kW; Passenger capacity 104-116 prs.; Crew 3 person.; DAIKIN Marine Type package air conditioners (warm/cool): 3; Cruising speed, calm water, at fully loaded displacement, not less, 75 km/h; Range without refueling 600 km. — Konstantin Matveev (matveev@hydrofoils.org) website: http://www.hydrofoils.org |
|
Hydrofoil Conversion, Need Vessel Recommendation
[2 Jun 01] I have searched as many sites as I can find, but have not really found what I am looking for… a hydrofoil for 10-15 persons I would guess. My desire is approximately 30 feet long by 9 or 10 feet wide. My only purpose is to use it as a pleasure craft like that of a Cabin Cruiser boat. I would like to buy one like this, but am more than willing to convert one to suit my desire. The nearest match to what I have been looking for is the AQUAVIT, but it does look smaller than I want. Do you know where I should start looking to find a craft with the dimensions and/or purpose that I seek? — John Turnbull (John.Turnbull@abbott.com) phone: 847-937-1320 work; 847-828-0096 home
Responses…[2 Jun 01] There are various resources on our website that may be of help to you:
- Previous correspondence about such vessels is posted at: //archive.foils.org/buyferry.htm
- Most recent offers to sell and requests to buy are on the announcements page at //archive.foils.org/announce.htm
- The links page includes some brokers who frequently have used hydrofoils for sale: //archive.foils.org/linksout.htm
- Photos of different types of hydrofoils are in our photo gallery: //archive.foils.org/gallery/
- If you are interested in converting a regular planing hull craft, take a look at Harry Larsen’s site to see what is involved, including parts breakout and detailed estimated cost: http://mysite.verizon.net/res6pe7p/index.htm
- As to Aquavion products, I have posted various test reports, sales brochures, etc. Due to the files sizes, I have put these onto Freedrive.com. If you want to access them, use the following link to go to Freedrive and sign up for a free account. By using the link, IHS’s folder will be visible and accessible from your free account. Here is the link: http://www.freedrive.com/ASP/PostFolderShortcut.asp?fsc=27997828 Also, feel free to contact Vik Poremskis (email: viktor_por@yahoo.com.au), who provided this information to us and who personally has an Aquavit 10P.
As far as a source of different types of hydrofoils that have been designed and manufactured over the years, the best reference is old editions of Jane’s Surface Skimmers dating back at least to 1968 and updated every two years at first, then every year. You may find copies in libraries, and occasionally old copies go up for sale at http://www.eBay.com. You should feel free to contact any of the people by email who have posted messages on the IHS site and whose comments are of interest to you. In that event, please include webmaster@foils.org as a “copy to” addressee, and inform me of any bad email addresses that you may encounter so I can endeavor to update them (as time passes, people tend to change email addresses). Please keep us informed as to your progress; if you do a restoration, we would like to have photos and lessons learned for our newsletter and website. It is quite possible that the membership could be of help to you with specific technical questions that may arise while converting your craft. — Barney C. Black (Please use the BBS to reply)
[20 Jun 01] I am happy to assist in any way regarding the Aquavion craft, especially the Aquavit 10P. If there is any particular queries (eg: cabin dimensions, fuel capacity, wiring details, foil sizes, etc) that you require – let me know. The Aquavit 10P would be a bit small if you wanted to try and fit a galley, sleeping quarters, head etc. As a day cruiser however, it is fine. Depends on what you specifically would want. Re: contacting International Aquavion (GB) Ltd, 40 St. Mary Axe., London. I have checked out this company, as well as the distributors in Australia (where most of the craft were sent) but they no longer exist. I have tried to contact some of the principals of the company however some have since passed on and I had no luck in locating others. — Viktor Poremskis (viktor_por@yahoo.com.au)
[17 Sep 02] I am wanting to use it on Lake Michigan. I am located at the Wisconsin/Illinois border on Lake Michigan. Wave heights are commonly 2-3 feet. I am hearing that most foils do not stay foilborne in this water condition. — John Turnbull (John.Turnbull@abbott.com)
MANU WAI PT 20 Hydrofoil Offered For Sale
[2 Apr 01] Possibly the best surviving PT20. Built 1964, completely rebuilt and modernized in 1990.Extensive aft cabin modifications, aft deck extensions, modern galley, audio-video entertainment system. MTU 12V493 1350HP main engine 600 hrs on new alloy block,15kva Onan genset. Length 20.75m, Beam 8m, Draft hullborne 2.8m,foilborne 1.4 m. Cruising speed 32 knots, max 36 knots. Complete with spares, docking cradles, drawings, documented history. ABS class. May suit use as private cruiser. Asking US$300,000. — Garry Fry for further details, email: gfry@vtown.com.au . For photos, click here and click here.
Sri Lanka Ferry Project Proposed, Info Needed
[4 Feb 01] I am looking for all kinds of information about hydrofoils. I am in the process of planning and designing a concept to start and run a hydrofoil service along the coastline of Sri Lanka. Mainly and first of all from the airport which is close to the shore and the capital Colombo along the Southwest to the South, connecting Colombo with Bentota, Galle, Matara and finally Hambantota. All those are places of general interest and partly of special touristic interest. Later, after the war in the North has subsided this service shall be extended around the whole island. The reason for this is the unbearable traffic situation on the roads. Actually, there is only one road to the South. This road is not bad but always heavily congested and as it is practically the living room for thousands of people no vehicle can move fast on it even if there was less traffic. As it is it takes more than three hours to travel the distance of about 120 km from Colombo to Galle if you are fast! and about five hours for the 135 km from Galle to the airport, north of Colombo. Earlier experiences with hydrofoils in various parts of the world as in different places in Europe, in Hong Kong, Japan or Australia gave me the idea to introduce boat services in Sri Lanka. It would cut the travel time short and at the same time would save people from the fumes and perils of this heavy and unclean road traffic as it is run up to day. What I need is all the possible information about the operation of hydrofoils for the described task. I have to know in detail the cost of operation as there is consumption, capacity, crews on board and on land, spare part keeping, travel times, average and possible maximum speeds in relation to fuel consumption and so on. I also need to know, of course, where and under which conditions I can buy used as well as brand new hydrofoils and where and under which conditions I can get professional assistance to judge what is on the market. As far as the planning goes we would have to start with the purchase of three to five boats. To give you some more background information: I myself am a German national. Age 71, living for 14 years now, about six months a year in Sri Lanka where we (my wife and myself) bought a small estate close to Galle in the South of the island in 1983. I retired 1987 from my job as Lufthansa manager after nearly twenty years of world wide responsibility (and experience) for the entire advertising, design and corporate identity presentation as well as publishing the log book for Lufthansa. The whole operation in Sri Lanka is planned to be funded by private investors as well as by the DEG, Deutsche Entwicklungs-Gesellschaft, a government organisation responsible for development aid in third world countries. – Ernst Tschoepke (ETschoepke@aol.com); Tempelberg; Kaduruduwa/Galle; Sri Lanka; phone: 09 42503
US Company Builds Hydrofoils
[15 Jan 01] For Sale: New construction. Proven design, U.S. built, U.S. Coast Guard Certified and U.S. Flag. 200 passenger Hydrofoil Vessels. Cruising speed – 36 Knots, Range – 200 nautical miles. Proven stabilization system allows the vessel to operate on offshore routes. — Ken Plyler (kfppfk@aol.com)
Ferries, Wanted to Buy
[8 Feb 01] I am looking as exclusive broker for buyer for one or two hydrofoils “Kolchida”, year built – 1984, Ukraine, very good condition for business in the Northern Caribbean, Florida, Bahamas. Discussions and information will be confidential, details can be obtained via my email address.- Mrs. Steinigk (steinigkr@tpp24.net)
US Company Builds Hydrofoils
[15 Jan 01] For Sale: New construction. Proven design, U.S. built, U.S. Coast Guard Certified and U.S. Flag. 200 passenger Hydrofoil Vessels. Cruising speed – 36 Knots, Range – 200 nautical miles. Proven stabilization system allows the vessel to operate on offshore routes. — Ken Plyler (kfppfk@aol.com)
Wanted to Buy Passenger Ferry
[20 Oct 00] We require a passenger boat carrying 100-150 passengers. Could you please email us the specs and price? — Mano Karimi (mehrzad@emirates.net.ae)
Response…[10 Oct 00]IHS does not recommend or endorse products or services, and we do not sell hydrofoils. However, there are several resources on our website for locating sources of new or used hydrofoils. The most recent notices are posted on our announcements page. A more complete listing is on the appropriate FAQ page. Our links page has several manufacturers and brokers. That should get you started in your search. I would like to have some more details of your requirements. For example, the choice of vessel depends on whether you are operating in fresh water, sheltered seawater, or open ocean. It is also necessary to know whether you require a new vessel or if a used vessel may be acceptable. Good luck. After you acquire your vessel and put it into service, you might want to consider writing an article about this for our newsletter. A free sample copy is available to view, download, or print. — Barney C. Black (Please use the BBS to reply)
Hydrofoil Ferry Prices Wanted
[20 Oct 00] Necesito saber de precios sobre hydrofoils usados en buenas condiciones. — Juan Arroyo, Kolla Tour (titikakakolla@pop.terra.com.pe)
Response…[20 Oct 00] IHS no recomienda ni aprueba los productos ni los servicios de algunos recursos que hay en nuestro website, para localizar las fuentes de hidroalas nuevos o usados. Los avisos más recientes se anuncian en nuestra página de anuncios en //archive.foils.org/announce.htm. Una lista más completa está activada en nuestra página de FAQ (Respuestas a Preguntas Frecuentes) en //archive.foils.org/buyferry.htm. Nuestra página de Enlaces tiene varios fabricantes y corredores de ventas… esto está en //archive.foils.org/linksout.htm. Con toda esta información, usted puede empezar su búsqueda. Anunciaré su indagación en el website, y la adelantaré a algunos de nuestros miembros. Después que usted adquiera su nave y la ponga en servicio, quizás quiera escribir un artículo sobre su experiencia para nuestro boletín. Un ejemplar gratis para leer, copiar, o imprimir está disponible en //archive.foils.org/soon.htm. Buena suerte,
Wanted to Buy Small Ferry
[13 Oct 00] I am looking for information for a abt. 15 passenger capacity open sea (coat-line) hydrofoil producers, manufacturers, offers for new or second hand. Thank you very much for your assistance. — Benedikt Schmitz (benbeni@monaco.mc); International Business Development, 19 Bd de Suisse, MC 98000 Monaco; T + 377 977 077 47; F + 377 977 077 57; M + 336 075 347 36
Response...[13 Oct 00] The Supramar PT-4 Meteor III which was offered for sale in New Zealand (and listed in the IHS website) is around that passenger capacity but is intended more for sheltered water operations. I suspect most hydrofoils of 15 passenger capacity would not have a true open ocean or coastal operating capability. A PT-20 sized craft with around 70 passenger capacity is about the minimum that would be practical for coastal operations, and even then with some restrictions. — Martin Grimm (seaflite@alphalink.com.au)
DUKW Hunting
[8 Sep 00] I am seeking to buy DUKWs, GMC World War 2 era Amphibian (G353/G501) nicknamed the “Duck” to use in Berlin, Germany! Also need documentation: operation and maintenance, emergency field maintenance manuals for service and repair. — Rolf Brill (rolf.brill@bln.siemens.de), Siemens Business Services, GmbH & Co. OHG, Siemens IT Service, Headquarters/Zentrale Funktionen, Escalation Management; Tel.: (+49) 0 30/386-41392; Fax.: (+49) 0 30/386-44326; Mobile.:(+49) 0 170/7945543
Russian Hydrofoil Summary Data
[8 Sep 00] I put pictures (and production years) of ALL Russian-made commercial hydrofoils on page http://www.hydrofoils.org — Konstantin Matveev (matveev@its.caltech.edu)
The Yacht Man
[26 Aug 00] The Yachtman (407) 636-3600 – Several Russian-built hydrofoil ferries are for sale in the USA, Ukraine, on the Black Sea, on the Mediterranean, on the Indian Ocean. Also offers new vessels.
Proposed Hydrofoil Ferry Route: Surat – Bhavnagar
[6 Aug 00] We are interested in acquiring or dry/wet leasing for long term hydrofoil or jetfoil passenger vessel to ply at Surat Port to Bhavnagar Port in India. Kindly suggest us your valuable advice. — Nilesh Bansal MD (fillink@suratbbs.com) We are San Ferry Company, Indo World Commercial Complex, 1st floor, Behind Kadiwala School, Majura Gate, SURAT (gujarat) India. e mail (lordsint@suratbbs.com)
Hydrofoil Service From Miami
[22 Jul 00] I`m working on a feasibility study for hydrofoil/ fast ferry passenger transport between Miami FL USA and Bimini Bahamas route length is approx 50 miles. I`m looking for information on a broker or shipyard that can provide new or used 50-80 passenger vessel. — Alessandro Di Bari (aledibba@aethrausa.com)
Unidentified Hydrofoils
[6 Jul 00] I was wondering whether you could help me out. This is my hydrofoil story. My father-in-law ( Ian Berkley McRostie) passed away recently and left me three hydrofoils, which I want to sell. He was operating a ferry service from the mainland here in Victoria Australia out of Stony Point on Western Port Bay to French Island. He stopped operating this service about five years ago and as he was suffering from cancer and the hydrofoils were in dry dock and fell into disrepair. I don’t really know where they were made or by whom. They are licensed to carry 10 passengers and are powered by two 200 hp Volvo Penta turbo diesel engines. We think they were built in the 1960s, and it has been suggested that they were built by Fokker and there were only a small number produced (about 20). Do these craft sound familiar? Can you help identify them? — Daniele Galli (dgalli@connexus.net.au), phone (work): 61 3 98657225, phone (home): 61 3 95576664. Address: 17 Hutchinson St. Bentliegh 3204; Victoria Australia
Response…[7 Jul 00] I have seen the hydrofoils you refer to when I was in Victoria. I once spoke to your father in law when one of the hydrofoils was offered for sale. That particular hydrofoil was a Russian design called the Volga (or I believe more precisely the Volga 90 which was the export version with a Volvo Penta stern drive). I looked at that hydrofoil and was almost tempted to buy it. The Volga is a 6 seat sports hydrofoil, much like a large speed boat. I have tried to relocate that hydrofoil over the last few years but without success. It was on a property in Nicholson when I saw it in about 1994. I imagine your father in law did sell that hydrofoil in the end?
I also saw two other hydrofoils which Ian operated on the Western Port ferry service, but that was about a year after he had stopped running them. At the time, they were both on trailers in a compound at Westernport Marina. I took a number of photos of them. The two craft I saw were named ‘Phoenix’ and ‘Phidian’, and there was a Fokker logo and sign writing on at least one of them at the time. It seems they had previously been operated out of Strahan in Tasmania going by the sign writing on the stern. The hydrofoils are actually of a design by International Aquavion and the model is called the Aquavit. The company no longer exists. I have a paper with the details of this design at home. I didn’t know there was a third such hydrofoil that your father in law owned and had always thought that the fleet consisted of the one Volga and two Aquavits.
I don’t know how the Fokker company fits in to the picture, but perhaps they were subcontracted to build some or all of the craft. I believe International Aquavion was also a Dutch company so this makes some sense. From fellow hydrofoil enthusiasts in Australia, I learned that several of the Aquavion craft were delivered to Australia a fair few decades ago as cargo on a ship and that is possibly the origin of the craft your father in law operated. I have also seen one other Aquavit in Australia, that being one used for a water taxi service in Pittwater, North of Sydney. When I saw that craft a few years ago, it was laid up as well. I will pass on the news that the craft may be up for sale to fellow ferry enthusiasts. I wish you well with finding a buyer for the hydrofoils and would be interested to hear where they eventually go to. I would even be interested to hear where they are currently located in case I could visit them again and get some photos of the third Aquavit which I never previously saw. —
Follow-up…
[7 Jul 00] The third hydrofoil is called PHARAOH and is powered by 2 Volvo Penta 4-cyl turbo diesel engines and carries 10 passengers. The other two carry 12 passengers. PHOENIX (powered by two 6 cyl turbo diesel Volvo Penta engines) and PHIDIAN (powered by 2 4-cyl Volvo Penta petrol engines) are at a factory site in Bayswater here in Melbourne that belongs to one of Ian’s friends. PHARAOH is in dry-dock at Hasting on Westernport Bay. It’s interesting how you saw one in Pittwater operating as a water taxi, as I was speaking with a Boat Broker in Pittwater today about selling them specifically for that purpose. The boat market in Sydney is substantially larger than Melbourne. There isn’t much demand for these type of craft in Victoria but there could be a market for them in NSW or Queensland. — Daniele Galli (dgalli@connexus.net.au)
Response…
[8 Sep 00] I have been trying to track down the paper which describes the Aquavion hydrofoils. This was sent to me less than a year ago by a fellow hydrofoil enthusiast, but I seem to have misplaced it somewhere. I am now worried that I have possibly incorrectly been identifying the hydrofoils as ‘Aquavit’ models when in fact they may be ‘Waterman’ models instead. I say this because I have come across a pair of photos in a book showing the Aquavion ‘Waterman’ which looks very similar to the French Island hydrofoils, but possibly a little smaller. The book does not otherwise have a description of that model. I also have a reference to a company called Tires Pty Ltd operating a Single Aquavion Waterman from Port Adelaide to Outer Harbour in South Australia in the mid 70’s, which makes me further believe that perhaps all the Aquavions imported into Australia were actually ‘Waterman’ models. I have located one article which describes the larger ‘Aquastroll 40-P’ model with a 40 passenger capacity which was also developed by Aquavion. This article may have come from the November 1962 issue of Hovering Craft and Hydrofoil which features a model of the ‘Aquastroll 40P’ on the cover. That article made reference to an earlier model called the ‘Aquavit’ which was described in the January 1962 issue of Hovering Craft and Hydrofoil, but I have never been able to track down a copy of that issue. I may have concluded at the time that ‘Aquavit’ was the smaller 10 passenger model and somehow that belief has stuck. Returning to the name of the company, it seems that International Aquavion (GB) Ltd was based in London, but this may have just been the company which marketed the hydrofoils in the UK? They had an Aquastroll model hydrofoil built for them by another company named Aviolanda NV of Papendrecht in Holland. The photos of the smaller ‘Waterman’ have a caption which indicates they are built in Holland and the photos are courtesy of Aquavion Holland N.V. In looking though my correspondence, I did come across a copy short newspaper item and brochure about the French Island Hydrofoil Ferry Service and this shows a picture of the third Aquavion, the ‘Pharaoh’ which you mentioned in your reply. Finally, I have attached a scanned image of ‘Phoenix’ to this email (jpg format) in case the other addressees of this message can finally positively identify the model of Aquavion that the three French Island hydrofoil ferries actually are! The photo was taken in June 1994 at Westernport Marina in Victoria, Australia. The ‘Phidian’ is in the background. –Martin Grimm (seaflite@alphalink.com.au)
Response…
[9 Sep 00] This is simply to confirm that your craft are indeed the Aquavit type. I have come across a short article / advertisement in the September 1965 issue of Hovering Craft and Hydrofoil magazine with a report on them as well as a photo of the craft, which looks just like PHOENIX, PHARAOH, and PHIDIAN. Repeated below is the text:
“THE ‘AQUAVIT’ HYDROFOIL CRAFT HAS BEEN IMPROVED! Add to the already amazing performance of the ‘Aquavit’ easier maintenance; sliding roof allowing rear entry; modified foils and streamlined bow increasing efficiency and maneuverability! Powered by two Volvo-Penta 110hp inboard/outboard motors this craft has a range of 170 miles and can travel at up to 32 knots. Highly maneuverable (turns in its own length) it causes no wash making it ideal for police, customs, harbour authorities or commercial use on inland and coastal waterways (it was the first hydrofoil to cross both Channel and North Sea and has been regularly used on the Thames). It is sold all over the world. Ready delivery Price: Pounds 5,950 F.A.S Rotterdam. All enquiries to INTERNATIONAL AQUAVION (GB) LTD . 40 St Mary Axe . London EC3. Tel: AVEnue 2845.
Rodriquez USA Office
[3 Jun 00, updated 3 Jun 02] As you are well aware Rodriquez has a long history of hydrofoil building and operation. Given the shallow water wake wash problem that even so called “low wake” fast ferry designs can’t get around, we feel that there is an increasing US market for passenger only hydrofoils. Fuel efficiency and building cost are also strong points for hydrofoils. We would be very interested in your opinion on how to best market our designs and hear about any leads you may have. — Mats Feldtmann, Vice President, Engineering , Rodriquez Marine Systems USA, Inc.; 16 Centre Street, Concord, NH 03301; phone (603) 228-9797, fax (603) 228-9898; website: http://www.rodriquez-ms.com [Editor’s note: the website for the USA office no longer functions, and the main Rodriquez website in Italy no longer lists a USA office.]
Hydrofoil Boat of New Properties, My Inventions, Looking For Partners
[2 Jun 00] Hydrofoils are my hobby. I have several ideas that can considerably widen areas of uses of hydrofoil boats, I believe. My dream is little hydrofoil ( max. 2 tons of draught) equipped with a quiet drive ( probably electric or combined drive system). This vessel should be characterized with following properties: (1) human error resistant ( shallow water entry, for example), (2) to be able to profit from little harbor or even to operate without any wharf (shallow water problem), and (3) transportable by a passenger car trailer. Such ecological and cheap water vehicle would be able to become a hit of a sport/turistic boat market, I think. I have invented several of constructional solutions, which in connection with existing know-how will make it possible to manufacture such a hydrofoil. I have the benefit of my experience geared while working in the Polish aviation industry to project devices (including suitable calculations) of the aforementioned water vehicle. I have verified my ideas on models. Nowadays I seek for partners having experience in manufacturing and trading conventional hydrofoils interested in utilization of my ideas. I am looking for names and addresses of the prospective partners. The detailed information about them (present activity, history, etc.) would be welcomed. Would you be so kind to provide me with such an information? Even your suggestions regarding looking for such a partner would be welcomed. — Bogus³aw P³oszajczak; ul. Ko¶ciuszki 45; 390-300 Mielec; Poland (gstec@powiat.mielec.pl)
Which Grumman Hydrofoil Is It?
[30 Apr 00] I am currently looking for information on a Grumman hydrofoil, 75 Ft. in length, 1968 all aluminum model. This is the only info I have on this vessel. Do you know where I could get information on this vessel, possibly a picture, and would it be a good choice for conversion to a charter yacht or a tour boat? – The Marauder (bigal12many@aol.com)
Response…[30 Apr 00] I think this is either the passenger ferry DOLPHIN or the military gunboat, PG(H)-1 FLAGSTAFF. The DOLPHIN carried 88 passengers and had a hull length overall of just under 75 feet. The hull had conventional sheer. The passenger cabin was raised about three feet above the main deck. The FLAGSTAFF had reverse sheer, which made the height amidships higher, the resulting flush deck eliminated the need for a raised cabin. As a result the length on the flush deck was about a foot shorter, or about 74 ft. Both were built in the 1964 – 1967 timeframe, the DOLPHIN first. Both designs shared components and features. One of the last things Grumman did before getting out of the business was to ship all the spare engines, foils, struts, props and other parts to the Navy at Carderock. Last I heard someone in New Jersey was trying to put the FLAGSTAFF back in operation. The DENISON was about 95 to 100 feet in length, and was built in the late fifties. XCH4 (“The Carl Boat” so called after Bill Carl) looked like a twin engine high engine seaplane with the outer wings missing. It had been built in the mid fifties and by 1962 had been scrapped. The XCH6 was a modified 23 foot (I think). Grumman pleasure boat with a gas turbine and various foils including I believe fully submerged supercavs. It was built in the late fifties and flew on the Great South Bay of Long Island. Let me know if you need any further recall. — Charlie Pieroth (SoundTM@ix.netcom.com)
[8 Mar 00] The only problem I have is the year specified. 1968 time frame was when TUCUMCARI and FLAGSTAFF were built. DENISON was 104 feet and was much earlier time frame. I have not been able to come up with the actual length of the Dolphin, but I believe it was also earlier. — Sumiyasu Arima (arimas1@juno.com)
Partner Wanted in Caribbean
[30 Apr 00] I am looking for a partner with a hydrofoil or access to a hydrofoil for business in a very lucrative tourist market in the Northern Caribbean. Discussions and information will be confidential, details can be obtained via my email address. — Keven O’Kelly (pier77@yahoo.com).
Russian Hydrofoils For Sale
[30 Apr 00, updated 9 Feb 01] We have the pleasure to offer the following hydrofoils for sale: [This particular offer is withdrawn, however please feel free to check with this source if you want to buy or sell a Russian hydrofoil to see what may be available at the time of need. – Editor]
- two (2) “Kolchida”, build 1984, class register till 2004, fully equipment, very good condition, located , Black Sea, Ukraine, asking for each U.S $ 430.000 and 410.000 FOB/ Odessa
- two “Meteor”, built 1989/91, “as is” Kiev/ Dnepr and “fob” Black sea Ukraine, asking U.S $60000 and 100000.
- “Voschod-7” built 1986, complete, fob Odessa/ Black sea asking U.S.$ 85000; Option till 18.04.2000
We will assist the prospective Buyer with his trip to inspect the vessel(s) of interest and guarantee his security and that the deal will close successfully. We just sold successfully two Meteor “Admiral 1/2 “to Egypt from Odessa. — Mrs. Raisa Steinigk (steinigkr@tpp24.net) or fax 0049(361)2261183
New Zealand PT-4 Hydrofoil for Sale[19 Mar 00] Supramar PT4, 16 passengers, 4 1/2 ton, built Porthleven shipyard UK 1965, POA. For more details contact me at — Dave Esler (neville.beker@xtra.co.nz) |
|
Indonesian Jetfoils
[11 Mar 00] I am searching for information on the Jetfoils that were sold to Indonesia. I understand that there were six of them. Supposedly, They were never used and are presently located in a Sarabaya Indonesia shipyard. I have a prospective client that is interested in purchasing the vessels but information is sketchy at best. Hopefully someone out there can shed a little light on the status of these boats. — Ken Plyler (kfppfk@aol.com )
Hydrofoil Ferries, Wanted to Buy
[24 Feb 00] Do you know of the possible availability for purchase of any Hydrofoil or Hovercraft ships, capable of carrying 60 to 100 passengers comfortably, along the coast on ocean waters? Please advise. — Jon Freed (jonfreed@sinfo.net)
Response…[1 Mar 00] I can give you approximate sizes and costs for two different hydrofoil passenger ferries as of 1995.
- 50 knots in calm water, 45 knots in 10 foot seas, FOILCAT, cost US$25,000,000
- 47 knots in calm water, 43 knots in 8 foot seas, JETFOIL, cost US$23,000,000
Another possibility at much lower cost would be a foil stabilized Catamaran with a speed of 38 knots in calm water and about 32 -34 knots in 6 foot seas. If you are interested in catamarans, I can put you in contact with people who can get you up-to-date figures as to the latest costs and performance. — William O’Neill (woneill@juno.com) Phone 610 869 5754
