月: 2024年1月

What Is a Breakwater?

A breakwater, also known as such in English, is a structure that forms the main part of the outer facilities in harbors.

It is installed to reduce the intrusion of waves and high tides from the sea into the harbor. Harbors where ships anchor are ideally located in calm waters. In the past, harbors were established in places with fewer waves due to geographical and natural conditions, such as inlets, inland seas, or coastlines surrounded by islands.

As maritime trade expanded and vessels grew larger, harbors began to be established without being constrained by geographical and natural conditions. This led to the construction of breakwaters by stacking stones at sea to mitigate waves and high tides. Levees are structures built to prevent waves from entering the land and play a role in preventing wave intrusion. The term “breakwater” is specifically used for structures built along the coastline.

Uses of Breakwater

Breakwaters have a long, slender shape like levees and are constructed from the land towards the sea to protect harbors. Breakwaters keep the interior of the harbor calm from waves, protect the land from high tides and tsunamis, and prevent coastal erosion.

Principle of Breakwater

Due to the immense force of ocean waves, without breakwaters, all the energy of the waves strikes the shore. The arrangement of breakwaters weakens the energy of waves hitting the shore, preventing water-related disasters.

There have been numerous historical cases of breakwaters being destroyed by waves. However, since the development of modern breakwater technology, the likelihood of breakwaters being destroyed by waves has decreased.

However, even in highly stable caisson-type breakwaters, there are reported cases of caissons moving or collapsing due to wave forces.

Structure of Breakwater

Breakwaters come in various structures, including sloping breakwaters, vertical breakwaters, composite breakwaters, and rubble-mound breakwaters. There are also structures such as wave-dissipating caisson breakwaters, upper slope caisson breakwaters, semicircular caisson breakwaters, and double-slit type caisson breakwaters.

Furthermore, research is underway on structures like upright emergent tsunami breakwaters, twin-hull breakwaters, and semicircular breakwaters. An upright emergent tsunami breakwater is a breakwater that is usually submerged underwater and emerges during emergencies. Although twin-hull breakwaters theoretically reduce tsunami height to one-tenth, it is currently a theoretical value. Semicircular breakwaters are also known as semicircular caisson breakwaters.

Types of Breakwaters

1. Sloping Breakwater

Sloping breakwaters are constructed by stacking large stones or concrete blocks. This is the traditional shape of a breakwater and is historically the oldest type. In modern times, it is used in areas where many stones are available, and wave conditions are not too strong, such as shallow ports.

Types using loose stones are called rubble slope breakwaters, and those using concrete blocks are called block slope breakwaters.

2. Vertical Breakwater

Vertical breakwaters are constructed almost vertically from the seabed to the sea surface using concrete blocks or underwater structures called caissons. A solid seabed is required, limiting installation locations.

Types using concrete blocks are called concrete block vertical breakwaters, and those using caissons are called caisson vertical breakwaters.

3. Composite Breakwater

Composite breakwaters combine a sloping breakwater foundation with an upright breakwater on top. They are known for high stability and are the most commonly used breakwater type in Japan. The functions of the sloping and vertical parts can be adjusted according to the size of the foundation and the vertical breakwater, providing flexibility against waves.

Types with vertical breakwater parts are also called caisson composite breakwaters or concrete block composite breakwaters.

4. Rubble-Mound Breakwater

Rubble-mound breakwaters place tetrapods on the front face of the breakwater regardless of the breakwater’s structure. This significantly reduces the force of the waves.

5. Wave-Dissipating Caisson Breakwater

Caissons have holes for waves to pass through, weakening wave energy and subduing wave forces on the breakwater.

6. Upper Slope Caisson Breakwater

The upper part of the caisson is inclined, suppressing wave energy.

7. Semicircular Caisson Breakwater

Mitigates the generation of reflected waves due to the breakwater’s reflection on the shore.

8. Double-Slit Type Caisson Breakwater

The circular caisson has two internal voids, resulting in a high wave-dissipating function.

What Is a Fishing Life Jacket?

A fishing life jacket, also referred to as a life jacket, is an essential life-saving device primarily utilized when engaging in fishing to keep the body afloat in the event of an accidental immersion.

Fishing is an activity enjoyed in various locations such as boats, piers, and shores. However, the risks associated with it, such as unstable footing in certain areas or the possibility of falling from a boat due to wind, are significant.

Therefore, wearing a fishing life jacket significantly increases the chances of survival.

Uses of Fishing Life Jacket

Fishing life jackets find utility not only in fishing but are also worn in bodies of water like rivers and seas for accident prevention. While fundamentally life-saving tools, some models come equipped with pockets and various holders, allowing storage of fishing gear. Fishing and water-related leisure activities deem these life jackets indispensable.

Principle of Fishing Life Jacket

Fishing life jackets gain buoyancy through materials like foam or gas filling. This buoyancy prevents sinking, enabling the wearer to float. For gas-powered life jackets, regular inspections of chambers and cylinders are necessary.

Types of Fishing Life Jacket

There are two main types of fishing life jackets: the solid type, containing buoyant materials, and the inflatable type, gaining buoyancy through the release of gas.

1. Solid-Type

Solid-type fishing life jackets utilize materials like foam as buoyant elements. They are easy to maintain, and offer high buoyancy, ensuring reliability. However, they may be bulky, heavy, hot, and restrict movement.

2. Inflatable-Type

Inflatable fishing life jackets gain buoyancy by filling chambers with gas. They are compact and offer ease of movement, but maintenance and regular checks are required to ensure safety. Inflatable life jackets come in automatic and manual inflation types.

How to Choose a Fishing Life Jacket

1. Vest Type

Vest-type fishing life jackets are available in a wide price range. They require no operation to stay afloat, making them suitable for children. While some may be bulky due to foam buoyancy, there are also comfortable and easy-to-move options. Consideration is needed if prioritizing ease of movement.

2. Waist Belt Type

Waist belt-type life jackets are popular for boat fishing, easy to wear around the waist, suitable for beginners, and feature a discreet design. However, they may require balancing as they inflate around the waist. Unlike vest types, they do not lift the upper body, making them suitable for those who can swim.

3. Shoulder Type

Shoulder-type life jackets are inflatable, compact, and provide ease of movement. They ensure a stable floating posture in the water, offering high safety. However, potential interference with movements around the shoulders and neck should be noted. Recommended for those seeking a high-safety life jacket with stability.

4. Cherry Blossom Mark (Safety Certification)

The cherry blossom mark signifies that the life jacket has been certified for safety by the government, and its use is mandatory for passengers on small vessels. There are various models such as “Type A,” “Type D,” and “Type F,” with Type A covering all navigation areas for added peace of mind.

Other Information on Fishing Life Jackets

Points to Note When Using a Fishing Life Jacket

When wearing a fishing life jacket, ensure that zippers and fasteners are securely closed to prevent them from coming off during a fall into the water. Securing the crotch belt tightly enhances the fit.

Properly wearing a fishing life jacket is essential for accident prevention.

What Is a Fishing Kayak?

A kayak is a closed-deck canoe paddled with a double-bladed paddle, featuring blades at both ends of a seated shaft with the legs extended forward. In essence, when referring to canoes, the term typically indicates an open-deck design, while kayaks are associated with closed-deck configurations. However, it’s common for the term “canoe” to encompass kayaks as well.

A fishing kayak, also known as a fishing kayak, is specifically designed for enjoying fishing. Engineered to approach points inaccessible to regular boats and quietly navigate without alerting fish, fishing kayaks allow the attachment of various fishing accessories such as fishing rods, cooler boxes, seats, and more.

Uses of Fishing Kayak

Fishing kayaks come in two main types: the conventional hand-paddled model maneuvered with a paddle and the pedal-drive model equipped with foot pedals in addition to a paddle. The pedal-drive model allows for high maneuverability, expanding the range of activities as it allows users to move using foot pedals while holding a fishing rod.

Moreover, there are variations in shapes, such as Sit-On-Top Kayaks and Sit-In Kayaks. Sit-On-Top Kayaks features an open deck where the paddler sits on top, providing an elevated viewpoint. With a hollow structure, these kayaks can carry ample cargo, resist sinking even if overturned, and facilitate relatively easy re-entry from the water. On the other hand, Sit-In Kayaks have a cockpit inside the boat, requiring the paddler to sit with legs extended. This design offers protection from cold or hot weather on the lower body, stability due to a lower center of gravity, but limited cargo capacity.

What Is an Inflatable Life Jacket?

An inflatable life jacket is an emergency escape device designed for water-related accidents.

While lifeboats and life rafts are intended for the evacuation of multiple individuals, inflatable life jackets primarily aim to protect individual lives. These life jackets come in various forms, including inflatable waist belts, shoulder-worn (vest) types, and fixed designs. Wearing them helps mitigate the risk of drowning.

The use of life jackets is mandated in many countries, and in Japan, as of February 2018, all occupants of small vessels must wear inflatable life jackets.

Uses of Inflatable Life Jacket

Inflatable life jackets play a crucial role in ensuring safety on the water. They are utilized during boat or ship boarding, marine sports, water-related work, and recreational activities along water bodies.

Moreover, the inflatable design allows for convenient storage when not in use, making them valuable for vessels, airplanes, and other confined spaces. Serving as vital tools to protect lives during water accidents or disasters, inflatable life jackets find wide application in various scenarios.

Principle of Inflatable Life Jacket

The principle behind inflatable life jackets involves a gas cylinder integrated into the jacket’s back or chest. Pulling a cord or water sensing triggers the cylinder to puncture, injecting compressed air or carbon dioxide into the jacket.

Regular inspection and replacement of components such as cartridges and cylinders are necessary to ensure the proper functioning of inflatable life jackets.

Types of Inflatable Life Jacket

Inflatable life jackets are classified into manual and automatic types.

1. Manual Type

This type requires the wearer to manually pull a cord to activate the gas cylinder when immersed in water. It is more affordable than the automatic type and allows for easy cleaning since there is no need to remove the inflation device.

While the manual type prevents accidental activation of the inflation device, it may pose challenges in situations where the wearer cannot freely move their hands after falling into the water.

2. Automatic Type

Automatic inflatable life jackets incorporate a cylinder within the jacket, and they automatically inflate when water is detected. Their compact shape facilitates storage without taking up much space.

The reassurance of automatic inflation during emergencies is a significant advantage. However, this type requires periodic gas cylinder replacement and may inflate inadvertently when exposed to water during rain or washing, presenting a drawback.

How to Choose an Inflatable Life Jacket

In choosing an inflatable life jacket, various manufacturers offer a range of products. It is essential to select one based on its intended use and environment.

1. Wearing Style

Waist Belt Type

Worn around the waist like a fanny pack, this type allows the upper body to remain free, making it suitable for activities involving repeated upper body movements, such as fishing.

Easy to put on and take off, these jackets come in various designs. However, as they inflate around the waist, they may offer less security compared to shoulder-worn types.

Shoulder-Worn (Vest) Type

Known for its snug fit and ease of movement, shoulder-worn inflatable life jackets are ideal for maintaining comfort during water immersion. As the wearer’s posture elevates the back of the head during a fall, breathing is facilitated.

While they may feel less maneuverable during swimming compared to waist belt types, the larger contact area provides stability and buoyancy. This type is recommended for those prioritizing safety.

2. Color

When purchasing a life jacket, color is a crucial consideration. In the event of drifting at sea, it may go unnoticed without vibrant colors like red, yellow, or orange. Opting for conspicuous colors is advisable.

Additionally, for rainy days or nighttime, where flashy colors might be less visible, confirming the presence of reflective materials and a whistle is equally important.

3. Presence of the Cherry Blossom Mark

The cherry blossom mark is stamped on life jackets verified for safety by the government, and its use is mandatory for small vessel occupants. There are four types: “Type A,” “Type D,” “Type F,” and “Type G.” A “Type A” life jacket covers all navigation areas for small vessels, providing peace of mind for users.

What Is a Water Bike?

A Water Bike, also known as a Jet Ski, is one of the special small watercraft in Japan.

In English-speaking regions, it falls under the category of pleasure boats. The formal term in Japan is “water motorcycle.” Jet Ski is a registered trademark of Kawasaki, and Marine Jet is a registered trademark of Yamaha. In the United States, it is also referred to as Personal Watercraft (PWC).

While many people may think that Kawasaki’s Jet Ski was the first water bike, the Bombardier Sea-Doo, a single-seater sitting-type watercraft released by Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) in 1968, is considered the first water bike.

Uses of Water Bike

Water bikes have diverse applications in leisure, sports, racing, and various other activities, taking advantage of their characteristics and functions.

Some specific use cases include:

• Free riding or touring without a set destination
• Racing on predefined courses to compete for speed
• Freestyle activities involving acrobatic maneuvers and scoring
• Towing water skis behind the water bike
• Fishing
• Coastal policing by law enforcement
• Rescue operations by military, private companies, etc.

While water bikes provide a convenient means of transportation, instances of enthusiasts disregarding etiquette and rules have been observed. This has led to reported cases of disrupting fishing grounds, collisions with beachgoers, and other accidents. Administrative measures include restricting navigation areas based on the Ship Officers and Small Ship Operators Act and regulations, enforcing laws against operating under the influence, and conducting safety training sessions to prevent accidents.

Principle of Water Bike

Water bikes operate by rotating the impeller inside a jet pump using an engine, drawing water from the jet intake located on the underside of the hull, and expelling it at high speed through the jet nozzle for forward propulsion. Water bikes use propulsive force to make turns, and simultaneous throttle and handlebar operations enable easy maneuvering.

The engines used in water bikes come in two types: 4-stroke and 2-stroke. 2-stroke engines, with a simpler structure that is lightweight and easy to maintain, were commonly adopted until around the early 2000s. However, due to environmental concerns related to burning oil and issues with noise, which make them subject to regulations, 4-stroke engines have become the mainstream.

Characteristics of Water Bike

Advantages

• The compact hull allows for choosing parking locations without restrictions. Additionally, even when stationary, it occupies less space than regular vessels, causing minimal disruption to traffic.
• Due to its relatively low price, it is easily accessible for purchase.
• Maintenance costs, including insurance, taxes, and inspection fees, are lower compared to other vessels.
• Maneuverable in narrow areas and narrow waterways.
• Easy spin turns with a small turning radius.

Disadvantages

• Since the body is not covered, the rider is directly exposed to impact in case of an accident.
• Incorrect operations may lead to sliding or heeling, resulting in a risk of falling into the water.
• Lower fuel efficiency during low-speed navigation compared to vessels with screw propulsion.
• Reduced visibility and a significant loss of comfort during rainy weather.

Types of Water Bikes

Water bikes are mainly divided into three types:

1. Standing Type

A single-seater water bike operated in a standing position. It requires a bit of skill to maintain balance but offers a high degree of freedom in driving, making it suitable for those who enjoy a sense of speed.

2. Runabout Type

A water bike that accommodates two to four people, allowing them to sit. Due to its large body, it is easy to balance and maneuver.

3. Sports Type

Designed for sports such as boat racing, this water bike is engineered for high speed. When used for regular purposes, it is recommended to choose either the standing or runabout type to avoid excessive speed.

Other Information on Water Bike

License Requirement for Operation

To operate a water bike, one must obtain the “Special Small Ship Operator License.” This license, required for driving water bikes, can be obtained by individuals aged 16 and above.

Even if someone holds the “First-Class Small Ship Operator License” or “Second-Class Small Ship Operator License,” which are mandatory for operating watercraft, they cannot operate a Jet Ski without obtaining the specific license for it.

What Is a Radar Reflector?

A Radar Reflector is a specialized device designed to enhance the radar visibility of smaller vessels, particularly those made of non-metallic materials or with low radar reflectivity.

Radar is an essential navigation tool for ships, helping them detect other vessels, obstacles, and landmasses, especially in adverse weather conditions like fog or darkness. Radar works by emitting radio waves, which bounce off objects and return to the radar unit, allowing it to calculate the distance and direction of those objects.

However, smaller boats, often constructed with materials like Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) that do not naturally reflect radar waves, may not appear prominently on the radar screens of larger vessels. To address this issue and improve safety at sea, Radar Reflectors are installed on smaller boats to enhance their radar signature, making them more visible to larger ships.

Installation Standards for Radar Reflectors

The installation standards for Radar Reflectors are outlined in the “Technical Standards for Navigation Radar Reflectors Installed on Small Vessels.” These standards may vary depending on the construction date of the vessel:

• For vessels constructed on or before November 3, 1994, Radar Reflectors are not mandatory.
• For vessels constructed between November 4, 1994, and June 30, 2002, installation is not required if the vessel’s hull is made of materials like steel or aluminum, which inherently reflect radar waves.
• For vessels constructed between July 1, 2002, and September 30, 2010, installation may not be mandatory if the vessel’s operation is limited to lakes and rivers.
• For vessels constructed on or after October 1, 2010, the same standards as before September 30, 2010, apply. However, if the installation of a Radar Reflector is deemed necessary, it must meet the new standards introduced after September 30, 2010.

Radar Reflectors significantly contribute to maritime safety by improving the detectability of smaller vessels, thereby reducing the risk of collisions and enhancing overall navigation safety, especially in adverse weather conditions.

What Is a Rescue Board?

The Rescue Board is one of the representative water rescue tools used in lifesaving situations.

It can quickly reach the person in need of rescue, and its effective straps on both sides facilitate the swift boarding of a drowning individual.

The method of movement at sea involves a technique called “kneepadling,” where the rider sits on the board in a kneeling position and propels forward by paddling with both hands in the water. Additionally, during rough sea conditions, there is a swimming method called “stroke paddling,” where the rider lies on their stomach and advances by paddling through the water.

The board’s structure is filled with foam inside, and its outer skin is mainly made of FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Plastic). It is more durable and has greater endurance compared to surfboards. The dimensions are 3.2 meters in length, and it weighs approximately 10 kg. The standard colors are red and yellow, providing visibility.

Uses of the Rescue Board

The Rescue Board is primarily used for rescues in locations away from the coastline and during maritime patrols. It is also utilized for event patrols in activities such as triathlons and open-water swims.

Through training, it becomes easier to navigate waves than swimming, and the speed is faster than swimming. This allows for the safe transport of the person in need to a secure location. With buoyancy capable of supporting ten adults at once, it can be used even when a large number of people are thrown into the water.

As it lacks power sources such as engines found in personal watercraft (PWC), it does not emit exhaust gases. This offers the advantage of safely approaching the person in need of rescue. However, caution is needed in crowded swimmer situations, as there is a risk of causing harm, making the board’s usage contingent on the circumstances.

What Is a Reach Stacker?

A Reach Stacker is a specialized vehicle used for cargo handling in ports, involving lifting and moving containers or placing them onto transport vehicles.

Similar to a forklift, it lifts containers from below and moves them by gripping them from the top. Like a crane, its arm extends, and a twist lock attached to the spreader (lifting gear) at the tip is inserted and secured into the fittings on top of the container to lift it.

Traditionally, the machinery in the container yard is used for loading and unloading containers at the port. However, using a Reach Stacker allows operations outside the container yard, making the lifting and lowering of containers more convenient.

To operate it, one must complete training in driving skills, such as operating a shovel loader.

Uses of Reach Stacker

The area where containers are stored before being transported by ship is known as the container yard. The container yard is situated in the maintenance area, and from here, containers are loaded onto ships or trucks for overland transport.

When the container yard is congested, a Reach Stacker is used to temporarily place transported containers to free up space. This allows trucks to load and transport the next container quickly, reducing overall processing time.

In case damages or scratches are found on a container, it cannot be put back into the container yard after transportation. By using a Reach Stacker to place the container in a temporary location, it becomes possible to proceed with the next task, improving efficiency.

The use of Reach Stackers helps alleviate congestion in container yards.

Moreover, in smaller ports lacking large facilities or at inland cargo terminals, Reach Stackers are used as alternatives to specialized equipment for transporting containers, or in place of forklifts.

What Is a Yacht?

A Yacht refers to a relatively large boat equipped with living spaces, either with sails or an engine.

Primarily used for leisure, recreation, and sports, boats referred to as yachts overseas are known as cruisers in Japan.

Yachts have three main criteria:

1. Having living spaces for ocean cruising
2. Being vessels used for leisure and sports
3. Having a length of around 20 meters (60-80 feet) or more

Luxurious yachts include bedrooms, kitchens, living-dining areas, toilets, showers, etc. Large vessels that are not working ships, such as workboats, passenger ships, or cargo ships, are also called yachts. Smaller vessels than yachts are called boats while working ships are referred to as ships.

Uses of Yachts

Yachts are mainly used for leisure and competitions. Cruising, where the enjoyment lies in the voyage itself, can last from a few hours to several days or even months. Anchoring in scenic coves, engaging in onboard parties, snorkeling, and experiencing the extraordinary is known as anchoring.

Sailing, involving the use of sailboats with multiple sails to compete for speed, is a sport known as yacht racing. Ranging from nearshore offshore races to long-distance long-distance races like transpacific crossings, yacht racing has a history of over 150 years, with the famous America’s Cup being a notable example.

Types with living spaces and dining areas allow yachts to dock in marinas, cook like a camper, and enjoy parties. Some countries use yachts as second homes or moor them at the shore and use them as residences.

Principles of Yachts

Yachts, especially sailboats, utilize wind power for movement and cannot sail directly into the wind. However, they can advance up to an angle of about 45° to the wind, allowing them to make zigzag movements. The sail polar diagram is an indicator of performance, representing the angle between the wind direction and the course direction, as well as the ratio of wind speed to theoretical sailing speed.

The wind creates lift at a diagonal angle in front of the boat due to the influence of the wind near the sails. By canceling the lift in the direction perpendicular to the course with a keel or centerboard, propulsion in the forward direction can be generated. The force that propels the boat forward is created not only by the lift generated by the sail but also by the angle of the water flow to the leeward keel.

Structure of Yachts

Yachts come in various shapes and sizes, mainly categorized into cruisers and dinghies.

1. Cruiser

Cruisers have cabins with facilities for people to sleep and stay. Many cruisers can prevent lateral drift with a fixed keel. The keel has a metal weight at its lower end, allowing the boat to return to its original position if it capsizes.

2. Dinghy

A dinghy is a small yacht without a cabin. Typically maneuvered by 1-2 people, the lateral drift of the boat can be adjusted with a centerboard. It responds well to the control of healing by the weight of the person steering.

Types of Yachts

Cruisers are divided into sloops and ketches, while dinghies are classified into gaff rigs, cat rigs, and sloop rigs.

1. Sloop

Cruisers with sloops use multiple jibs of different sizes, choosing based on the wind strength. The size of the mainsail can also be changed based on wind strength.

2. Ketch

A mizzen mast is positioned aft of the main mast, deploying a smaller sail than the mainsail.

3. Gaff Rig

A low mast suspends a quadrangular mainsail using a gaff. Although an older rig type, the Optimist class dinghy still uses it for junior training.

4. Cat Rig

Only one mast and one sail are hoisted, offering a simple rigging that can be operated by one person.

5. Sloop Rig

Two sails, a mainsail, and a jib, are hoisted on one mast. With a more complex rigging, it is usually sailed by two people. Deploying the jib forward creates an aerodynamic slot effect, efficiently directing the wind to the mainsail and allowing for swift movement.

What Is a Motor Yacht?

A Motor Yacht is a type of cabin cruiser distinguished by its luxurious living spaces, including an owner’s bedroom and salon area.

Due to the emphasis on spacious living areas, Motor Yachts have larger hulls, earning them the designation “yacht” rather than “boat.” In Japan, the term “yacht” often brings to mind sailboats with sails, but internationally, the term “yacht” is used for relatively large boats used for recreational purposes.

Motor Yachts navigate using engines, with sizes exceeding 35 feet, and boats smaller than this are referred to as simply “boats.” Larger vessels may even exceed 130 feet, sometimes referred to as “megayachts.”

Uses of Motor Yachts

Motor Yachts are used by high-class individuals for cruising and onboard parties, offering a comfortable maritime lifestyle for journeys lasting from a week to several months. Cruising allows passengers to enjoy life on the sea, traveling around the world while residing in well-appointed cabins, akin to their homes.

Onboard parties provide an opportunity to entertain guests away from the hustle and bustle of towns, amidst the vast sea and beautiful natural surroundings. Motor Yachts are used as social venues or for inviting close friends to spend elegant moments together.

Additionally, they can be taken offshore for exhilarating fishing, dropping anchor for scuba diving, or anchoring in tranquil coves to appreciate nature.

Principles of Motor Yachts

Motor Yachts commonly adopt inboard engines for propulsion, generating power that is transmitted to the propeller through a shaft, creating thrust through rotation. A rudder is positioned behind the propeller to change the vessel’s direction by turning the handle.

Inboard engines, often equipped with 4-stroke diesel engines, offer advantages such as fuel efficiency and durability, despite their heavier weight.

Types of Motor Yachts

Motor Yachts are mainly classified into the following types, although there are numerous variations due to the wide range of available models.

1. Cabin Cruiser

A type of Motor Yacht emphasizing residential features, equipped with cabin space, bedrooms, living areas, kitchens, and bathrooms. Suitable for extended cruising and family or friends’ boat trips.

2. Flybridge Yacht

Featuring a spacious open deck (flybridge) on the upper part of the vessel. Typically includes lounge areas, dining spaces, bars, and sunbathing spaces for indulgent cruising.

3. Trawler Yacht

A robust Motor Yacht suitable for long-distance navigation, primarily using diesel engines for efficient and economical journeys. Offers spacious cabin space for a comfortable onboard experience.

4. Megayacht

A highly luxurious Motor Yacht with a very large size and extravagant amenities. Fully equipped with bedroom suites, living areas, dining rooms, pools, jacuzzis, helipads, gyms, cinemas, and opulent interior designs, catering to affluent individuals seeking the utmost in yacht experiences.

Other information on Motor Yachts

License Requirements for Operation

To operate a boat or yacht with an engine, individuals need a national qualification called a boat license. While there are multiple types of boat licenses, most vessels can be operated with either a “First-Class Small Vessel Operator License” or a “Second-Class Small Vessel Operator License.”

1. First-Class Small Vessel Operator License

Applicable to boats weighing less than 20 tons, with a length of less than 24 meters and no navigation area restrictions. Allows navigation worldwide (for journeys exceeding 100 nautical miles offshore from the coast, a person with a Class 6 Maritime Technician (Engine) qualification or higher must be on board). Widely used for small boat captains, including cruisers and ocean yachts.

2. Second-Class Small Vessel Operator License

While the size limit for boats is the same as for a first-class license, it is limited to navigation in calm water areas and within 5 nautical miles of the coast. This license is suitable for approximately 9 kilometers from the coast and is ideal for running within sight of the shore.