In shipping speak, RoFlo stands for “Roll on Float Off.” It’s a method of launching a vessel. The newest Amels 180, a Limited Editions megayacht, marked a RoFlo milestone for the Dutch yard. It was the 30th time Amels had used the method in eight years.
The video here provides a time-lapse look at the RoFlo process. The Amels 180 was rolled out of her build shed onto a floating platform, then to a floating drydock. The drydock floor lowered to permit water to enter and the Amels 180 to then float. She was then maneuvered to her finishing area.
Why employ RoFlo? Amels’ production manager, Bert Beckers, puts it this way: “It’s fast, efficient, and low risk for the yacht.”
Interesting enough, a FloRo (Float on Roll Off) process took place for another megayacht within days. Amels isn’t revealing which Limited Editions semi-custom model was involved. However, she’s one less advanced in construction, moved into a building shed.
Regardless, she, and the Amels 180, are among eight Limited Editions projects in various stages of completion. These include the first Amels 272, being handed over next year. There’s also the first Amels 242, set for delivery in early 2016. In related news, an Amels 180 and Amels 199 were each delivered in the past several weeks.
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