Araok II casts off

The initial trials began in the large outfitting centre in Les Sables-d’Olonne for all equipment that can be tested there. However, it is only after the launch that the serious testing begins with harbour trials. "Our teams attend, but there are also subcontractors, and representatives from the certification body and the flag state," explains Antoine de Jonckheere, head of the business management department at OCEA. To leave the port, the boat must obtain a provisional navigation permit. This means ensuring a minimum level of seaworthiness and the safety for subsequent trials." At this stage, we test water ingress detection, bilge and mobile pumps, door and window seals, fire detection, generator load, degraded emergency modes, electronics, and more.

Final trials

Next come the sea trials, to fine-tune the yacht and check its performance and behaviour at sea. Since OCEA yachts are all full custom build, adjusting the parameters of onboard equipment – such as stabilizers and steering systems – is essential to achieve peak performance. "There are always issues that crop up, and the point of the trials is to identify them," says Antoine de Jonckheere. We even try to generate problems, to see how the boat reacts." Tests include endurance at full speed, stopping distances during crash stop manoeuvres, and how the yacht handles blackout conditions—such as emergency shutdowns of propulsion systems and generators. "Our yachts are built for long voyages, and we test their restart capabilities to ensure reliability," says Antoine de Jonckheere. Here again, representatives of the certification body and the flag state are present, and can raise concerns before issuing the final certificates. These procedures are identical for all OCEA vessels, including yachts, workboats, transport vessels and military units. All vessels benefit from the expertise and experience of the shipyard. Once the trials are complete, the delivery can proceed. The provisional acceptance is signed, marking the end of the trials and the start of the technical warranty, which will end upon final acceptance.

Compliance with the latest standards

Araok II is a 32.70-meter OCEA Commuter 108. This ocean-going yacht is designed to navigate the world’s oceans and can comfortably accommodate eight guests and four crew members, providing excellent safety throughout. It is the first OCEA yacht to feature engines meeting the latest IMO Tier III emissions standards, allowing it to navigate without restrictions in all emission control areas. It is equipped with solar panels to help charge the batteries and an optimized on-board energy management system. The large 1.5 tonne MCA-approved crane can launch tenders into the water even in the most challenging conditions. Its elegant, functional and seaworthy interior was designed by French-Swiss designer Pierre Frutschi.