More space, more comfort
Apr 14, 2021 / by admin / In Actualités / Comments Off on More space, more comfort
Plasti Pêche constructed Bel Horizon 2’s hull using an existing mould, with some modifications in line with the yard’s ideas and Coprexma’s designs.
The hull is optimised with a broader stern and a custom-designed S-shaped bow to generate deck space and volume in the forward section. According to Laurent Lelarge, building in GRP provides options for greater flexibility in hull shape – and Plasti Pêche’s boats are extremely robust.
‘GRP is more difficult to modify or repair,’ he noted.
‘Equipment installation is complex and requires planning ahead from the design stage. Overall, GRP is also lighter for superstructures. This means more design freedom for both the hull and outfitting. We talked a lot with the owner and the yard. 3D modelling also enabled the owner to visualise spaces more easily and to visualise himself on board the boat,’ he said.
Bel Horizon 2 can work across trawl, scallop and static gear fisheries. Image: Coprexma
‘We base the design as closely as possible to the operating pattern,’ said Plasti Pêche director Dominique Mandin.
‘He expects to work with two crew, so we optimised the hydraulic equipment layout. There are four net drums and three winches positioned aft of the wheelhouse, with an overview of the warps and trawls from the control position.’
He explained that the wheelhouse has a 360° view. The galley and accommodation with four berths are below deck level forward and there is a skipper’s cabin below the wheelhouse. Having more bunks that are needed at any one time allows each crewman to have his own space, even when on a trip off. The wheelhouse and accommodation areas are designed for easy access.
The crew make up the fishing gear themselves, using materials from Naberan. Image: Yann Le Cornec
‘All this means better working conditions, with more comfort and more space on deck. I would have liked a ramp and a working area aft, but that wasn’t possible on a 13 metre boat. There is a door in the side so we can move equipment without having to step over the rail. That was something M Mandin promised to do for my wife…’ Yann Le Cornec said.
‘The stainless steel crane means that we can unload anywhere, and we have a shower and toilet on board, as sometimes we are away for a week when we are fishing in Baie de Seine and Granville.’
Bel Horizon 2 launched and ready for delivery. Image: Coprexma
Bel Horizon 2 has a 183kW John Deere main engine driving an 1850mm propeller. The engine size is limited to meet the shellfish licence requirements for the Bay of Saint-Brieuc, and fuel consumption is expected to be lower than on the company’s previous boat. A bow thruster aids manoeuvring in port. Tank capacities are for 8000 litres of fuel and 1000 litres of non-potable water.
Bel Horizon 2 arrived in Saint-Quay at the end of March to start fishing – and to maintain the tradition, the owners had three coins encased in the hull to bring them luck.