FPB Series

A New Paradigm for Cruising

Design Objectives

FPB 64

FPB 83

FPB 83 On Deck

FPB 83 Interior

FPB 83 Systems

Passages

How Things Are Working Out

Design Objectives

The most important part of the design process is defining just what it is we are trying to achieve. In case of the FPB Series the number one priority is the ability to deal with heavy weather, closely followed by a high degree of comfort on long passages (the former reinforces the latter). The third characteristic we're looking for is the ability to make make the type of really long passages that have heretofore been the sole provenance of sailing vessels, and do it more easily, and in more comfort than we've been used to in the past. Underlying all of these requirements are the fundamentals of the hull shape, accommodation plan, and deck layout.

In the following sections we'll take you through the various detail issues that control each aspect of the naval architecture and structural engineering - the basis on which these vessels are being built. While the process is aimed at achieving a certain type of end result - in this case the FPB 83 and FPB 64 - our approach is the same for any new design.

We'll start by dealing with a subject which most in the marine industry would rather you didn't think about - extreme weather. We don't know about you, but we want to know intellectually and emotionally that we are prepared for virtually anything - while maintaining the ability to avoid unpleasant sea-states most of the time.

We'll then get into directional control and how hull shape affects pitching (it is pitching in head seas which form the most uncomfortable situation on almost all yachts). Eventually we'll take you through the process of tank testing and how we use CFD analysis for analyzing and fine tuning motion.

Next comes sections on our choice of a hull material, the structural engineering process, and information on how the boat is put together. We'll close this question with a detailed look at the appendages: stabilizers, keel, rudders, and skegs.