Free-running manoeuvring experiments of a fishing vessel model: Effects of rudder geometry and hull appendages

This paper presents a physical modelling study investigating the influence of hull appendages and propeller-rudder configurations on the manoeuvring performance of a representative North Atlantic fishing vessel. A 2.5-m free-running, remotely controlled scale model of the fishing vessel was instrumented with motion, acceleration, and force sensors and equipped with integrated propulsion and steering systems, synchronized via a dedicated data acquisition framework. Manoeuvring experiments were conducted in accordance with ITTC guidelines and comprised turning-circle, zigzag, pull-out, and crash-stop trials. The results show that both hull appendages and rudder configuration significantly influence vessel manoeuvrability. In general, the presence of appendages enhanced turning performance, while the single-foil rudder yielded additional improvements relative to alternative flat-plate rudder arrangements. Repeatability analyses confirm the robustness of the experimental measurements. The findings provide new experimental insights into the coupled hydrodynamic interactions among the hull, propeller, rudder, and appendages, thereby supporting improved prediction accuracy in manoeuvring performance assessments.