Practical evaluation of resistance of high-speed catamaran hull forms - Part 1

Although catamaran configuration has been around for a longtime, it is only in the recent past that such hull forms have seen unprecedented growth in the high-speed ferry industry. One of the design challenges faced by naval architects is accurate prediction of the hydrodynamic characteristics of such vessels primarily in the areas of resistance, propulsion and seakeeping. Even though considerable amount of research has been carried out in this area, there remains a degree of uncertainty in the prediction of calm water resistance of catamaran hull forms. This paper attempts to present the research work carried out so far and what needs to be undertaken in future for a reasonably accurate prediction of catamaran resistance characteristics. The authors have examined the deep water wave resistance characteristics of a series of transom stern, semi-displacement slender catamaran hull forms of round bilge as well as single chine hull forms, which are of utmost importance to the high-speed ferry industry. The accuracy of the established regression equation has been seen to deviate appreciably by various sources of uncertainties. Verification of the equation with experimental database is also lacking to a certain extent. Further research is, therefore, needed to refine the accuracy as well as to complete the selection of crucial parameters employed. However, the results obtained have shown considerable promise, and a regression equation for predicting wave resistance of catamarans in calm water can be seen as achievable.