The SERENITE project involved building a demonstrator coastal fishing boat of under 12 metres with the aim of commercialising an innovative, flexible vessel that would provide ship owners with a more economical and environmentally friendly option.
The project comprised three specific innovative aspects: advanced architecture, diesel-electric propulsion system and integration of bio-sourced materials. These were designed to significantly reduce energy bills and maintenance operations and to improve onboard comfort and safety.
Plans for the vessel were fine-tuned during the project with 1:12 scale model tests carried out in tanks at the Ecole Centrale de Nantes. A study of diesel/electric engine power was also carried out.
The phase 1 objectives were all attained. The search is now on for a partner yard to construct the mould and for ad hoc funding. The present challenge is to create a composite mould for the hull that will pave the way for building the first demonstrator and, potentially, twenty new vessels.
