Palmer Johnson 267' Expedition "World"
Globe Topped, Globe Trotter Going to Build
Palmer Johnson is preparing to take on the world with a 267' Ice Class expedition yacht designed by Nuvolari & Lenard, aptly named the "World". Having acquired the Norwegian shipyard Flekkefjord Slipp & Maskinfabrikk’s, who specialized in building complex seismic, research and exploration vessels, PJ has now positioned themselves to build "world" class expedition yachts.
Exemplifying this approach - and specific to the PJ World Yacht - a Rolls Royce UT hull will be optimized to a Diesel-Electric Azipull Propulsion system to facilitate multiple operational parameters. This design is said to reduce the loss of speed in head seas, reduce vibration and keep noise levels in check , while improving the vessel’s maneuverability and control. It also contributes to the vessel’s “Clean Class” notification. Further, improvements in propulsion efficiency reduce the required level of installed power therefore reducing both the running costs and the emission of harmful gases.
The Diesel Electric Propulsion system not only contributes towards the DNV “Clean Class” status, it also allows for greater operational flexibility. The captain can match the number and type of engines that are run to the desired transit speed and on-board hotel load in any set of conditions. The vessel can run with full hotel load at full speed on the main diesels without requiring generators; it can travel at 13 knots on one main engine or at 6 knots on one auxiliary generator set. The vessel can operate on any combination of mains and auxiliaries that match the hotel load and speed at the given time offering optimum controllability.
Exceptional station-keeping capabilities are achieved via Dynamic Positioning on the PJ World allowing the vessel to be “moored” in environmentally sensitive or restricted areas without the traditional use of lines or anchors. Instead, the onboard propulsion system and thrusters work together to control the position by centralized automatic responses to variations in sea conditions. Other features include a certified heli deck, heli hangar, an optional garage designed for a six man Discovery submarine, and a superior Rolls Royce at-rest stabilization system. Security features such as water cannons, forward scanning sonar, thermal imaging, closed circuit television and acoustic shields are also available on this vessel.
