Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution (KNRM) orders 8 shipsets of HamiltonJet HTX30

Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution (KNRM) orders 8 shipsets of HamiltonJet HTX30 with AVX vessel control for their new series of rigid inflatable boats.

The new series of 8 aluminium rigid inflatable boats of 11.4 meter will be the first of the new “Van Wijk class”, named after the testator who donated the funding to develop this new class. The design is based on the very successful Valentijn class, also equipped with HamiltonJet. The series will be built at  two experienced Dutch shipyards, Dok en Scheepsbouw Woudsend B.V. and Habbeké Shipyard.

Each lifeboat will have two Hamilton waterjets, model HTX30 which features new hydrodynamics and advanced materials for redefined performance, enhanced durability and even easier installation. The HTX30 delivers major improvements at both ends of the speed range allowing for lower fuel consumption and increased acceleration. HTX jets feature brand new intake and pump designs. These deliver up to 40% more bollard pull and greater sway thrust than any other waterjets on the market. This improves manoeuvring response, position holding capability and vessel acceleration.

AVX is the next generation of vessel controls ready for the future and enables the integration of skipper assistance, autonomous, electrification and digitalisation technologies. AVX offers seamless management of engine RPM and reverse deflector deployment with either combined or separate levers. On demand AVX gives you access to the information you need, when you need it. The screen display provides immediate feedback on system status and presents a range of critical information, options and system settings.

Quote KNRM:

“We again chose Hamilton because of proven technology on the existing KNRM ships, reliability and simplicity. In addition, we specifically choose the HTX30 jet because the performance has increased, with 7% in high speed efficiency and 19% increase in maximum static. Confidence which contributes to a better performance of the KNRM vessel in extreme sea / weather conditions, such as improved manoeuvring, ability to hold position and acceleration of the vessel”

The current lifeboats of the KNRM were built between 1991 and 2016. At almost 30 years old, the oldest lifeboats are in need of replacement. The first new lifeboat of this series will have the function of a spare boat and will be used from 2022 on rescue stations of which the lifeboat is undergoing major maintenance. The home ports of the next seven boats will be announced at the beginning of 2021.

The KNRM has a lifeboat fleet of 75 lifeboats, varying in length from 5 to 20 metres. With this rescue fleet, more than 4000 seafarers and water sports enthusiasts are safely brought ashore each year.

HamiltonJet and AMW Marine are delighted to be a part of this continuing mission.