Future-Proofing Superyachts: Integrating Ultrasonic Antifouling Into New Builds and Refits

Yacht antifouling has become a critical focus area in this push for sustainability. Given their size, superyachts are particularly susceptible to biofouling — the accumulation of organic marine material on the underside of vessels — and this results in increased operational costs, higher fuel consumption, greater carbon emissions, the transfer of invasive species, and higher maintenance and repair costs. 

To maintain your vessel’s performance and value (and to lessen its substantial impact on the environment), you need to future-proof your superyacht. Effective antifouling solutions can prevent hull damage, keep you compliant with regulatory bodies, lower your costs, and mitigate some environmental concerns. 

Understanding the Environmental Impact of Superyachts 

Superyachts may be seen as the epitome of luxury and advanced technology, but they’re also criticized for their high fuel consumption and emissions, which contribute to marine pollution and pose a significant detriment to the environment. Recent regulatory pressure has been pushing those in the superyacht industry toward more sustainable practices. 

Some of these impacts include: 

• Fuel inefficiency and emissions: Superyachts are, by their very nature, not fuel-efficient. They can consume between 100 and 500 gallons of fuel per hour at cruising speeds, and the annual CO₂ emissions of the top 300 superyachts alone would take roughly 13 million trees to offset. There are measures that can improve fuel efficiency, including using sustainable technology like solar panels and wind turbines or considering a hybrid propulsion system. 

• Biofouling: Biofouling is the accumulation of marine organisms like algae, barnacles, and mussels on underwater structures, including those of a superyacht. It causes a variety of issues, from creating more drag and increasing fuel inefficiency to introducing invasive species to vulnerable areas. The Cathelco DragGone™ ultrasonic system is a solution to this issue. Particularly when combined with a cathodic marine growth prevention system (MGPS), it’s highly effective at disrupting the accumulation of organisms. 

Regulations Driving the Push Toward Greener Solutions 

The International Maritime Organization, or IMO, has developed a timeline for the adoption of measures to reduce the carbon intensity of international shipping. In addition, industry leaders recently launched a set of Environmental Crew Guidelines to address the impacts of yachting on the environment. While the Environmental Crew Guidelines are voluntary measures, the IMO already has the backing of the UN Secretary-General and will undoubtedly be a stringent set of regulations to which you must adhere. Updating your superyacht to align with future expectations is a wise decision that will keep your vessel in the water and prevent unwanted downtime. 

Regulatory compliance is both a legal requirement and a step toward more sustainable practices, which is of interest to environmentally conscious yacht owners and operators. Smart technologies are vital for “green” yachting, and they are the way of the future. 

The Critical Issue of Hull Fouling 

Hull fouling, also called biofouling, is a vital issue of which you should be aware. It happens rapidly; algae can form within hours of the superyacht entering the water. The accumulation of aquatic organisms can create friction, increase drag, decrease speed, and lead to structural damage and corrosion. It also has adverse effects on habitats when invasive and non-native organisms detach themselves in foreign waters, endangering native species. This is something that every superyacht owner and operator needs to be aware of. 

Traditionally, the solution to this issue has been manual cleaning and antifouling paints, but not only are these antifouling methods time-consuming and expensive, they require regular maintenance. In addition, manual cleaning, whether done when the hull is wet or dry, poses safety concerns. Antifouling paint can be effective when combined with an ultrasonic system, but it’s not terribly useful on its own. 

Ultrasonic solutions such as Cathelco DragGone™ are a consistent answer to hull fouling. It works by emitting ultrasonic waves that disrupt the marine organisms from attaching to the yacht’s submerged structures, preventing larger biologic material (barnacles) from accumulating and keeping the vessel clean. 

Evaluating the Cost and ROI of a Green Refit 

While new superyachts can be built with green technology such as the Cathelco DragGone™, you might wonder whether a green refit for an existing ship would be worthwhile. The initial investment is higher, but the potential for long-term savings and environmental protection is substantial.  

Investing in the Cathelco DragGone™ Ultrasonic system for your yacht isn’t just a choice for cleaner hulls; it’s a smart financial decision. With a typical annual fuel consumption of 400 and up tonnes, the system can save superyachts up to 13% each year, or approximately 52 tonnes, through its contribution to hull biofouling management.  

You’ll see a reduction in your superyacht’s carbon footprint, thanks to the improved fuel efficiency. You’ll save about 1.5 kilotonnes of CO₂ annually, which translates to the elimination of 15 kilotonnes over 10 years. 

You can see for yourself your potential savings when using the DragGone™ advanced ultrasonic antifouling technology with the fuel and emission impact calculator. Simply enter the type of vessel you’re using along with the length of your superyacht. You can also reach out to our experts to learn more about the ultrasonic antifouling solutions that might be right for you. 

In addition, implementing green technology can ensure compliance with the stringent environmental regulations the IMO is setting. This contributes to the prevention of potential fines and can also enhance your superyacht’s marketability and reputation. 

Related Stories: Chief Engineer reviews DragGone™ ultrasonic antifouling on superyacht

Key Considerations for Your Next Green Refit 

Installing advanced antifouling systems like DragGone™ is an important part of refitting your superyacht for the future, but it’s not the only action worth taking. Additional green technologies can also enhance sustainability: 

• Selecting eco-friendly materials, such as recycled metals and sustainably harvested wood, will promote the use of renewable resources while reducing your superyacht’s carbon footprint. 

• Using low-VOC and non-toxic finishes like antifouling coatings in combination with installing DragGone™ will improve air quality and reduce harmful emissions. 

• Installing energy storage systems like advanced battery systems or lithium-ion batteries can reduce your reliance on diesel generators and lower your emissions. Hybrid propulsion systems combine electric propulsion with diesel engines, increasing fuel efficiency and resulting in a quieter, smoother ride. 

• Using renewable energy sources like solar panels, hydro generators, and wind turbines reduces the reliance on fossil fuels. 

• Leveraging automated systems like energy management systems, lighting systems, climate control, and wastewater treatment systems can minimize environmental impacts. 

Immediate Benefits of DragGone™: Proven Results From Day One 

Installing Cathelco DragGone™ offers immediate results. From the first day, the system will prevent algae and other organisms from attaching themselves to the hull and other underwater structures. This proactive approach ensures a clean hull, which translates to improved fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance costs from the very start. 

A Chief Engineer from Superyacht N2H noted, “Since I joined the yacht crew two years ago, the USP DragGone™ system has kept the hull in perfect condition — no slime, no grass. I’ve worked offshore and seen other ultrasonic systems fail, but this is the first time I’ve witnessed a technology that truly works against hull fouling.​” 

This endorsement underscores the reliability and effectiveness of the ultrasonic system, even when compared to other ultrasonic antifouling technologies. 

Some additional advantages of the Cathelco DragGone™ system include: 

• Consistent performance. You won’t need to manually scrape the hull or reapply antifouling coatings. 

• Immediate impact. From the moment it’s activated, the ultrasonic waves from DragGone will offer hull protection by discouraging organisms from attaching themselves to the underwater structures. 

• Lowered environmental impact. Ultrasonic technology can eliminate the need for antifouling paint and other coatings that can cause negative impacts. Copper leaching is minimal; in fact, it is less than is found in regular tap water. 

• Cost savings. By keeping the hull clean, you’ll experience enhanced fuel efficiency and less drag. 

Conclusion 

Future-proofing current superyachts with effective antifouling solutions is essential for maintaining performance and increasing sustainability. The Cathelco DragGone™ system saves you money, preserves your vessel’s condition, and reduces your carbon footprint. It will also help you comply with industry regulations and appeal to yacht owners, crew, and others who are eco-conscious. 

Refitting a superyacht will result in immediate savings, and it will also be a long-term investment in your vessel’s efficiency and environmental responsibility. By making this proactive decision, you’ll not only be safeguarding your investment but also demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices.