An investigation into the feasibility of converting 'Ocean Phoenix' into a sail training yacht.

In carrying out the study the author set out to develop knowledge of the statutory and design requirements for converting a 77 foot cruising yacht into an offshore sail training vessel operating, under the United Kingdom flag. \n \nThe paper that follows discusses the suitability of the yacht for its proposed use, describes the design development process undertaken, identifies the main regulatory issues and proposes essential modifications required for the yacht to be operated safely offshore. \n \nTo assess the yacht’s general suitability for sail training purposes a preconversion evaluation was undertaken to establish initial stability characteristics, accommodation requirements, likely cost considerations, appropriate tankage capacities, estimated speed, range, confirmation of the installed power requirement and suitability of the existing sail plan. For calculation of the data presented in the paper various analytical methods were employed based on a combination of first principles engineering methodologies and those defined by the regulatory authorities. \n \nHaving established the suitability of the vessel for the intended purpose detailed analysis was undertaken to assess compliance with the main regulatory requirements for intact stability, damage stability and structural safety of the yacht which also included analysis of the rig engineering. \n \nThe findings of the study concluded that with the reconfiguration of the interior and addition of watertight bulkheads/doors the vessel would be suitable for use as an offshore sail training yacht. However, as the investigation was conducted with data and drawings supplied from the builder and without viewing the yacht it was recommended that a full pre-purchase survey and inclining experiment be conducted. The objective of the survey being to confirm the yacht’s overall condition and assess its investment \npotential, with the inclining experiment being conducted to confirm that the results obtained from the inclining test were in line with those presented in the paper. \n \nHaving assessed the evidence discussed in the paper it would then be the decision of the prospective owner/operator to further assess the commercial viability of the conversion and operational aspects of running the yacht for sail training purposes.