Rolls-Royce To Power King Shark

By Ian Cameron

Whilst superyachts are more likely to be found cruising warm climates, Rolls-Royce said it has won a contract to provide the propulsion and power electric systems for a new ice classified vessel, the 70m-long King Shark, being built in Viareggio by Italian yacht company Rossinavi.

The King Shark allows the owner the freedom to sail the warm waters of the Caribbean and the freezing conditions of Antarctica in luxury.

The superyacht was designed inside and out by Team for Design, a yacht design and architecture firm based in Venice, Italy, whilst naval architecture was by Arrabito Naval Architects, based in Livorno, Italy. The yacht will be certified under Rina and Lloyd’s.

Rolls-Royce is providing advanced propulsion and power electric system technology.

Electric propulsion allows the vessel to travel extensive distances, a range of 6000 nautical miles at 12 knots and to reach a top speed of 17 knots. The Rolls-Royce SAVE Cube system allows the engines to be operated at variable speeds increasing efficiency and reducing fuel consumption at the different operating conditions. Installing drives, frequency converter and switchboard in a single cabinet also allows easier installation and saves space, said Rolls-Royce.

The company is also supplying two Azipull AZP085 azimuthing thrusters. According to Rolls-Royce this combination of low drag body and pulling propeller gives a high propulsive efficiency and enhanced maneuverability, together with good course keeping ability.

Rolls-Royce is supplying a dynamic positioning system for the vessel. This will help keep the vessel safe in the most extreme conditions by providing a “dynamic anchoring” capability which will hold the vessel in position counteracting the effects of both wind and wave, the company said. The vessel is understood to have Caterpillar engines, although details have not been confirmed.

King Shark is equipped with amenities such as a soundproof cinema room, fully equipped gym, spa and massage room and owner cabin with large private terrace and round pool and is due to be completed in 2021.