6 DOF simulation of maneuvering and propulsive performance of a waterjet propelled mega yacht

In the present paper the current status of the development of the DINAV manoeuvrability and propulsion simulator for planing boats is described. This topic, despite not being widely covered in literature, has shown in past years an increasing industrial interest due the higher demand for high quality systems in the leisure boat market, including also optimised control systems, which are important for boat performances and safety. In order to respond to these needs, a mathematical model able to represent the 6 degrees of freedom motions of a vessel and the working characteristics of the propulsion plant has been implemented. A first application, regarding \u2018Leopard 34\u2019 by Cantiere Navale Arno, a 34 meters yacht propelled by 3 Rolls-Royce Kamewa Waterjets, is presented. Simulations obtained from the model have been qualitatively compared with some data acquired during full scale trials, and an analysis of the influence of various parameters on the craft manoeuvrability has been carried out, underlining some important aspects which need further research efforts and experimental validation