Hydraulic fold-out composite balcony for a 24 m catamaran

Summary. YTEK Yeni Teknoloji designed and manufactured a hydraulically actuated 2 × 2 m composite fold-out balcony for a 24 m catamaran. The system was delivered in 2024 and is in service.

Requirement

The owner required a private balcony that deploys from the hull side and closes flush with the hull line when the vessel is under way. The system had to be integrated into a confined hull section, carry two people safely over the water and remain locked in any position. On a multihull, where weight has a direct effect on performance, added mass had to be kept to a minimum.

Engineering solution

• Composite platform: a 2 × 2 m composite structure that minimises weight while providing the stiffness required for two occupants.
• Cylinder actuation: two hydraulic cylinders, one on each side of the opening, rotate the balcony about its hinge line.
• Hydraulic load holding: lock valves on both cylinders hold the balcony in position in the event of a pressure loss.
• Compact power unit: a 2.2 kW hydraulic power unit sized to the catamaran's limited technical space and power budget.
• Hull integration: frame, hinge brackets and cylinder mounts designed around the existing hull structure, so the closed balcony follows the hull line.

Scope of work

YTEK was responsible for the design and manufacture of the balcony system.

System operation

In the closed position the balcony forms part of the hull side. On command, the cylinders lower it outward until it forms a level platform beside the water. The lock valves hold it in the open, closed or any intermediate position.

Outcome

Delivered in 2024 and in service. Finished with a teak deck and a rope guard rail on stanchions, the balcony provides a two-person terrace at water level without altering the hull profile when closed.