Two pump jets — also known as hydro jets — will be installed aboard each of the 413-foot luxury ships under construction or on order at WestSea Viana. The five ships will sail under Mystic Cruises’ North America brand, Atlas Ocean Voyages. World Navigator, to debut in July 2021, is the first ship under the new agreement to receive pump jets.
'Our goal is to build the cleanest, safest and quietest expedition ships that meet and exceed the strict requirements of the regions where our ships sail. We designed our cruise ships to ensure that we do our part to help sustain these unparalleled places for future generations to enjoy,' said Mário Ferreira, chairman of Mystic Invest, the holding company of Mystic Cruises and Atlas Ocean Voyages.
Getting travelers closer to marine wildlife
Ferreira called the Schottel thrusters 'perfect' for bringing travelers closer to more marine wildlife, safely and sustainably.
'We can stop our ships’ propellers and engage the pump jets to quietly cruise up to five knots in wildlife-rich waters and not frighten away the beautiful fish. Schottel’s pump jets are very effective aboard previous Mystic Cruises ships, and we have again opted for Schottel’s system for Atlas Ocean Voyages expedition ships.'
Each of will be equipped with two electrically driven Type SPJ 82 (335 kW each). These extremely compact SPJs are being installed in a small recess of the hull, further protecting the propulsion unit. The elastic mounting minimizes noise and vibration. Pump jets diminish ship vibrations for passengers' comfort and minimize cavitation, which significantly decreases underwater noise. This noise tends to cause sea life to scatter.
Leacon sealing system
The pump jets will be equipped with the patented and DNV GL type-approved Schottel Leacon sealing system to control leakage and prevent water from entering the gearbox and, of even greater importance, oil from escaping into the seawater. Considered a non-oil-to-water interface, the system complies with the Vessel General Permit regulations of the US Environmental Protection Agency.
A video illustrating how pump jets work is here.
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