Extensive hullform optimization studies for a series of small electric catamaran ferries

The hydrodynamic hull form optimization of a series of zero emission, battery driven, moderate speed catamaran ferries is presented. Based on specified design requirements regarding a vessel’s main characteristics, namely length and beam overall, displacement and speed, a formal optimization study is performed, aiming to identify favorable hullforms with minimum total resistance in calm water. To this end, a parametric model for the elaboration of alternative hull designs based on a set of design parameters has been developed, while the total resistance of each hull is evaluated by potential flow calculations. A series of promising design alternatives derived by the optimization study have been re-evaluated by more accurate viscous flow calculations. Finally, the best performing hullforms are tank-tested at the towing tank of NTUA’s Ship and Marine Hydrodynamics Laboratory.