Around-the-World Project Completes 20,000 Miles of Testing

With 20,000 miles of testing under his belt, Stephen Shilder’s campaign to set the around-the -world powerboat record is ever closest to its goal. His 60’ power triaran endures its trials in the roughest waters from San Francisco to point Conception, known as the Cape Horn of the West Coast. The project runs under the philosopy "maximize movement and minimize energy."

Shilder’s team has analyzed hundreds of ocean crossings for prime areas of boat and crew vulnerability. They include hoiling the boat, leaks or breaks in windshield and ports, and propeller and shaft, engine and rudder damage, as well as crew safety.

Every failure in testing becomes a success, because weak equipment and structures are redesigned and strengthened by a factor of four. The current boat is on its fourth rudder, thired propeller and third bottom paint in the quest for an ever-more efficient and safe configuration. Four more underwater foils will undergo rigorous testing before the craft’s scheduled departure in Fubruary.

This project pushes the leading edge of technology and design for underwater fins, rudders, propellers and hydrofoils for powerboats. A new group of international designers, beyond the original nine firms, completes this very specialized work.

To beat the current record of 83 days held by Triton atomic submarine, the boat must, of course, finish and have limited downtime. Problems and repairs must be preplanned, then solved quickly. Port stoprs must be more like pit stops.

Crew safety is a primary concern. Analysis of trans-ocean sailboat shows danger areas in crew fatigue, injury, burns and falls overboard. While the Trimaran’s long, narrow design gives a very smooth ride, everything from extra hand holds, non-skid surfaces, sleeping locations and even lighting have been reviewed and often rebuilt to improve crew safety.

Overall, it is estimated this 60’ boat is fast and efficient enough to beat the record. As a prelude to this challenge, in 1989 Shidler motored from San Fransisco to Sydney, then cruised the South Pacific in the 40’ Eneavour timaran. He covered 15,000 miles under power from two 27 hp disel outboards, and set powerboat distance and feul effeciency records. More than a year of total testing and safety as it pushes onward to its Miami departure in 1998.

From Stephen Shidler, 2536 Franklin St., San Francisco, CA 94123.

Phone: 415-928-6311; Fax: 415-292-7735

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