Helicopters / Seaplanes on Yachts

mp-willow · 09-26-2006, 11:26 AM

Thanks all! I am not ready to get too serious yet, but I am very greatful for all your help and all this discussion.

As for the hilo on hanger, I was thinking of being able to only bunker feul for about a tank or so. Yes I understand the loss of space, and the expence for the hanger, but it will be used to travel on and off Yacht as it is traveling the oceans. I am also thinking of having a deadicated crew for it. Two pilots, and the cheif of the boat to keep it very clean. As this Yacht will also be a strong player for corporite interests and fundraising.

You mentioned the larger 4 blade rotors do not fold? But navy birds do? at full beam of 16 m it will be close for some of the diamitors, but I think it could work. I like flying to much to not have the heli with me, and well some places you need it to get from hear to there, better then always looking for a car.

It was mentioned thatwith a pad all is well. Yes, but I would need to be clsoe to my ride, or know a pilot who is rated, and insured to land on MY Yacht. As insurance is not cheap I am finding it would be better to have my pilot and helicopter with the Yacht.

Last Bit:
Why is the S-92 so costly to stay rated on? Any one have thoughts on it?

old.one · 09-27-2006, 09:38 PM

Eurocopter EC-155B
The EC 155 first flew in 1997. It was certified by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) and the German Government Agencies (LBA) in 1999 and for single-pilot IFR (instrument flight rules) operations in January 2000.
The EC 155B is the latest evolution of the Dauphin family. Combining the large experience of the Dauphin fleet and the new technology assets steaming from Eurocopter's Research and Developpment such as Avionique Nouvelle, 5 bladed Spheriflex main rotor head together with a new Fenestron tail rotor and a variable main rotor speed for low noise signature. The two Turbomeca Arriel 2C1 engines will power the EC 155 giving the helicopter a high level of performance.
Compliant with the latest JAR-OPS 3 requirements the EC 155B shall also cruise at speeds in excess of 140 kts. The EC 155B will transport comfortably 12 passengers in a new spacious and unobstructed cabin providing exceptional visibility and accessibility. Baggage will not be left aside as the EC 155B features the largest cargo compartments in its class.

Specifications:
Maximum weight: 4,800 kg / 10,582 lb
Capacity: 1 or 2 pilots + 12 pass.
Maximum useful load (including mission fuel): 2,272 kg / 5,009 lb
Sling load capacity: 1,600 kg / 3,527 lb
Power plant: 2 TURBOMECA ARRIEL 2C1
Take-off power (A.E.O.): 635 kW / 851 shp
Maximum continuous power (A.E.O.): 597 kW / 800 shp
Fast cruise speed (at maximum weight): 266 km/h - 143 kts
Maximum range with standard tank(s): 831 km - 449 n.m.

I haven't seen this one mentioned, but it is already being used on a yacht
(as the pic shows). It can be used with just one pilot, and the blades will
fold for storage.
I attach some pics to show:

KCook · 09-27-2006, 09:53 PM

Is it just me or are the wheels on that bird really teeny tiny?

old.one · 09-28-2006, 01:52 AM

Yes, they might be small - but I don't think there is much call for taxi on this yacht! By the way I think that they offer skids as an option.
This Old One.

Go5go · 09-28-2006, 07:10 AM

Yeah they do look tiny. not any smaller than other choppers though..

old.one · 09-28-2006, 08:55 PM

Absolutly correct Pete, they are all about the same size.

We have heard of Sikorsky's role in offshore platform shuttle service.
I have collected a group of four contenders that could be considered for the task of "Ship-to-Shore" transportation. Some of these 'birds' have been used many times in this capacity.

I offer these four examples of the class of 'choppers that are capable:
#1: Bell 430 (my concern is the low tail rotor, slightly smaller payload).
#2: Eurocopter EC155B (my favorite, as previously stated).
#3: Sikorsky S76C (a proven warrior in this task).
#4: Bell-Agusta AB139 (a newcomer in this class, and she has class).

PS: You may notice that all of the wheels appear to be about the same size.

This Old One

Neil Rooney · 09-28-2006, 09:17 PM

Does anyone remember NADINE with a seawind with a turbine engine and a Jet Ranger on board!

Seawind Website

mp-willow · 10-02-2006, 10:24 AM

Thanks for the post. The 155B is nice, did not think the blades folded.

I agree the 139 has some great lines, I have not looked to see how it compairs with thee others.

I liked that silver one on the Yacht, but the bow paad I am now shure about. Is that on an Abramov Yacht?

kc135delta · 10-06-2006, 06:16 PM

The blades on Navy helicopters are different, and require alot of man power to change their position. Not realistic for corprate applications allthough some have tried.

The S-76C++ new or S-76A are the best buy in their class depending on your budget. They are also single pilot IFR certified so you only have to hire one pilot.

It is expensive to remain current in a 90 becuase parts are hard to come by and sucks fuel like your throwing it out the window. I recommed a 50' beam for helicopter operations as a minumum.

and you'll want to carry about 2,000 gallons of JetA becuase you arn't suppost to leave the fuel in the heli while it's stored in the hangar.

I can help you with helipad/heli hangar design, just hit me up with a pm or have me explain it here out loud.

kc135delta · 10-09-2006, 04:57 PM

don't forget to make sure the heli you use is twin engine, if you don't. You might regret it.

mp-willow · 10-12-2006, 07:02 PM

c135delta> thanks for the help. I am thinking of a Yacht that is 82m LOA and 16m beam. Draft is a little up in the air, would like it under 6m. The hanger if able to have it would be full beam.
I am reading about different aircraft now, as this forum and thread have been most helpful.

I have a question for you all! I have been reading about maintanance and re-fueling cirtification for use on Yachts? I take it this is seperate from operational cirtification?

kc135delta · 10-14-2006, 01:30 AM

Acctually, as long as you don't charge people to ride with you (chartering the yacht dosn't apply). Then you won't need any certifications. Just make sure your pilot an if you have an A&P think it's ok. If they think it's fine then you'll be allright as they wouldn't make anything unsafe as there life is on the line also.

I wouldn't worry about it.

mp-willow · 10-21-2006, 12:13 PM

So the helicoptor ride would be ok to take out to Yacht if they chartered the Yacht? That seems confusing, but I gess if you are not charging for it or say that it comes with the Yacht?

Question: What Heli would you like to use off a yacht?

Crewagency · 10-24-2006, 04:05 AM

I am searching for details about carrying a helicopter on board Yachts.
My client is planning to build a 35-38m Explorer type yacht and we just want to know something about the regulations for stowing a helicopter on board.

I learned that there are 3 different regulations
1. heli only for short touch down
2. heli landed on board
3. heli stowed on board with fueling

What about fueling the heli on board ? Will it be more easy if the new diesel helicopters will come in the market ?
Regulations easier with steel or aluminium Yachts instead of GFK Yachts ?

Thanks
Alex

Crewagency · 10-25-2006, 02:07 AM

Thats what we want to put on the yacht. That was my first Heli flight and I will never forget.