P.A.E. has years of experience designing and refining engine rooms for its oceangoing passagemakers. With over l00 Nordhavns roaming the seas, many owners have provided valuable feedback resulting in the state-of-the-art design and installation techniques found on the 57.
While some owners have specified twin engine installations, the most efficient, cost effective and quiet approach is to utilize a single, heavy-duty diesel turning a large, four-bladed prop. The Lugger L-6l25A 325 hp engine has been found to be an ideal choice when coupled with a 3-to-l reduction gear. This gear reduction allows the propeller to drive the vessel at full displacement speed at moderately slow rpms, minimizing prop noise and vibration.
To provide standing headroom, "maintenance strakes" that lower the hull bottom on each side of the engine were designed. The engine, installed on centerline over the keel, is totally accessible for service and inspection. This arrangement provides an abundance of space surrounding the engine for the installation of accessory equipment and mechanical systems such as a generator, air-conditioning compressors, a water maker, stabilizers, hydraulic pumps, electric pumps and an auxiliary wing engine. But beyond just fitting these items in is an overall plan of easy access and inspection. Everything is in sight and within reach, making routine service a convenient, hassle-free process.The captain also has the luxury of a work bench, a sink with running water, and a full compliment of storage cabinets for tools and spare parts. Well lighted and ventilated, the 57's engine room is a virtual showplace of efficiency, organization and intelligent planning that encourages scheduled maintenance and routine checks.
The 57's fuel management system consists of four molded composite tanks totaling 2,000 gallons, and a sophisticated, yet simple-to-use fuel transfer system. P.A.E. has concluded that composites are the best material for fuel tanks. They can be molded to the most exacting, room saving shapes, and they simply do not suffer from corrosion, even after l0 or 20 years. They also do not transmit the noise of sloshing fuel throughout the vessel as metal tanks sometimes do. With sight gauges in full view and a clearly marked arrangement of valves, fuel lines and filters, the captain is always aware of his fuel capacity and condition.
An area of particular interest is P.A.E.'s approach to the main engine cooling system. Instead of the usual saltwater cooled system that requires a thru-hull, strainer, plumbing and raw water pump, the Nordhavn 57 features a closed, keel-cooled engine. No saltwater enters the boat or engine parts, reducing maintenance and areas of potential problems. Likewise, an optional dry exhaust system is available that eliminates long-runs of noisy exhaust hoses containing saltwater and exhaust fumes. Instead all engine exhaust exits high above the aft deck.
Heading offshore and sustaining long periods of self-sufficiency require thoughtfully designed and meticulously installed systems. Many boat builders leave much of this work to their local dealers, and the results often lead to inconsistent performance at best. Instead, P.A.E. works closely with its clients, marine equipment manufacturers and installers to ensure dependable operation of all onboard systems. During P.A.E.'s factory supervised commissioning process, all electrical, hydraulic and plumbing systems are checked against specifications and for proper operation. Comprehensive sea trials are conducted and supervised by the actual project manager of the boat, minimizing potential problems when the owner takes possession.
From her custom designed electrical system to her reliable hydraulic system for running stabilizers, bow thrusters, davits and windlasses, the Nordhavn 57 is a large, magnificent yacht that can be run and managed by a couple. She can take her owners anywhere in the world, providing them with luxury and comfort for weeks and even months without land based support.
