(SPAY, Germany) — The 354-foot yacht IJE, built at the Italian shipyard Benetti and recently handed over to its owner, features propulsion solutions from Schottel. One electrically driven Schottel pump jet type SPJ 132 (500 kW) provides maximum maneuverability. In addition, it allows using only clean, electric propulsion over short distances as well as in DP mode. The gigayacht – according to Benetti's classification – is the longest yacht ever built by the Italian shipyard.
The Schottel pump jet provides full thrust in all directions and can be used as a reliable maneuvering system, take-home device, and main propulsion unit on a wide range of watercraft. A space-saving installation with minimum displacement loss is enabled due to its extreme compact design. A further advantage of the SPJ is that vessels can also be maneuvered quietly and vibration-free even in shallow waters, such as channels.
Since the jet is installed flush with the vessel’s hull and provided with a protective grid at the intake, there is no injury risk for divers or swimmers when the SPJ is in operation. Furthermore, a low noise and vibration level is observed when the pump jet is in operation. Therefore, it is ideal for vessels frequently operating in DP mode or cruise vessels and yachts with high comfort demands.
The yacht encompasses 3,367 GT within a beam of 47.5 feet and a height of 99 feet. Other key features of the five-deck gigayacht include a cinema, gym, sauna, large heated swimming pool and an observation deck with seating area. Two 46-foot tenders are stowed on the foredeck, and a 33-foot tender and up to eight jet skis are located in the yacht’s garage on the lower deck. The new yacht is equipped with five cranes and two hydraulic scissor-type lifts for lifting up to 15 tonnes.
For more information about Schottel, visit www.schottel.de.