The surface effect catamaran incorporates twin high length‐to‐beam cushions to support a low length‐to‐beam platform. The performance characteristics of the resulting vehicle, i.e., the resistance and head sea motions, are equivalent to a higher length‐to‐beam surface effect ship. The high lateral stability which results from the widely spaced hulls and cushions of the surface effect catamaran provides several advantages not inherent in conventional surface effect ship configurations. These advantages are manifested by high cross‐structure height and reduced structural loads without reduction in static or dynamic roll stability. For an 800‐ton ship the widely spaced cushions provide a capability of controlling off‐head sea types of motions and the virtual elimination of green water over the deck up through Sea State 6. Model tests have validated cushionborne and hullborne resistance computer prediction programs. Head sea motions tests have justified the use of high cross‐structure height to minimize high slam types of structural loads. Preliminary design and model tests indicate the potential for the surface effect catamaran to operate as an open ocean ship in smaller sizes than heretofore thought possible. In addition, its planform and large volume provides pay‐load capabilities of much larger ships.

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