Brilliant Boats and BB Yacht are proud to announce the launch of Thunderbird 2, which has taken place recently in Antalya in Turkey.
Fans of Gerry Anderson and the Thunderbirds series from the 1960’s and 70’s will understand immediately what this vessel is all about. But if not, a little explanation may be appropriate.
Designed to carry a 3 PAX, 1000m capable Triton submarine (Thunderbird 4, of course!), Thunderbird 2 features an 8.5t capacity hydraulic platform for launch and recovery of the sub and other toys, along with the array of battery chargers and oxygen storage and transfer systems required to fully support the submarine.
Overall dimensions are 22m x 10m, and being based in the Caribbean, her full load draft of less than 1.1m, allowing access to places unimaginable in a conventional yacht.
Lightweight aluminium construction to DNV HSLC, and an interior in balsa, honeycomb and Forex, means she weighs in at just over 54 tons lightship, and has a full load displacement of only 72 tons, including 7 tons of fuel and 8 tons of Triton 3300/3.
Brilliant Boats says the interior, styled by Miami interior designer Karine Rousseau, offers spacious accommodation in 2 lower deck suites, one for the Owner and one for guests, and huge entertaining spaces, a day head, office and large galley on the main deck. A flexibly mounted and heavily insulated interior means that even at full speed, sound levels are a super quiet 65dB in the lower deck accommodation and 72db on the main deck.
The aft deck is the center of operations for the submarine, with a dedicated sub support locker, but also has dive bottle storage and filling, a fuel pump and davits for the tender and large swim steps with bathing ladder for easy access to the water. Forward is an al fresco dining area, a giant sun pad for relaxing, and barbeque and bar area with built in fridge and ice maker.
2 Yanmar 8SY engines (900hp ea) and Hamilton 521 waterjets provide performance of 22 knots at full speed and a transatlantic range at an economic cruise speed of 10 knots.
Although built for a private client, Thunderbird 2 complies fully with MGN 280, allowing him the opportunity commercialise this unique package.
A sistership is already under construction by Brilliant Boats at BB Yacht and is available for delivery in time for next summer.
