Design Aspects and Applications of Deep-V Hull Forms to High Speed Crafts

In this paper an assessment of the newest unconventional hull types which are currently under construction or object of research projects in FINCANTIERI, is reviewed, focusing the attention either on the methodology and tools employed in the design phase, either on the peculiar hydrodynamic characteristics of each hull type. The use of the modern computational fluodynamic tools (CFD) in the preliminary stage of the project is useful to reach a satisfying solution which can fulfill the specifications. The validity and effectiveness of these types of computer simulation programmes are discussed on the base of the results achieved in the application on the latest designed ships which were tested in model scale and/or built. Some criteria on the evaluation of the data which such programmes can provide is also included. The powering, seakeeping and manoeuvring performances of Deep-V monohulls over conventional round bilge hulls are analysed and critically discussed within their application to fast ferries. Some interesting full scale results will be presented as well, with the aim to validate the computational design methods.