In areas with speed restrictions, such as on canals and rivers or in harbours, it is not only the low speed that contributes to safety, but also the reduced wave impact. The smaller it is, the less impact it has on the shore and other water sports enthusiasts. To keep the bow wave as low as possible, Steeler has come up with something very special for our test boat, the NG 57 - the so-called "steep flare bow".
It ensures that the bow wave remains flat and As little splash water as possible occurs. On our test trip, the former was actually significantly lower, and we didn't notice any spray on deck either. However, it has to be said that the IJsselmeer was calm on the test day and we only had to deal with light choppy water.
Powered by two Cummins engines with 480 hp each, the Steeler reaches a top speed of a good 12 knots. With just one engine, i.e. in simulated emergency operation, she still reaches almost 10 knots.
To travel economically with two engines, the speed has to be reduced to just under 8 knots. Around 3.7 l/sm then run through the diesel lines; with a tank capacity of 2500 l, we calculate a range of a good 500 nm plus 15% reserve, which fully fulfils the BOOTE standard of 370 nm. If you reduce the speed to less than 6 knots, you can even achieve ranges of over 1000 nm. The noise level of 52 dB(A) at slow speed and 56 dB(A) at cruising speed shows that this driving style is also particularly quiet. Even at full throttle, the driver's ear only has to deal with 75 dB(A).
The arms also remain relaxed when travelling in a straight line, as the Steeler stubbornly follows the nose as if pulled by a string. More power at the wheel is required when coming out of a fast bend. "This is due to the hydraulic steering - it has no power assistance," says Hans Webbink from Steeler Yachts. It's easier with the "Follow-up remote control" (steering lever for steering the boat) of the Simrad autopilot. With its help, the boat can be manoeuvred quickly and slowly with ease.
For precise harbour manoeuvres, the skipper also uses the turning ability of a boat with differently engaged gearboxes (one forward, one back) and the thrust of the bow and stern thrusters.
Together, this gives the driver a high level of safety. He sits - like his co-pilot - in a kind of pilot's seat. Both seats can be adjusted in all directions for an optimum seating position, and the armrests provide good lateral support. Plus: the firm yet comfortable upholstery. Minus: A bar to rest the feet comfortably was not installed; however, according to the shipyard, it will be available in future models. The driver can easily and comfortably operate the gearstick and steering wheel both sitting and standing. To keep it that way in the rain, Steeler installed two double-arm wipers with washer nozzles. However, an unclean strip remains in the centre of the windscreen, impairing visibility.
The monitors, on the other hand, which show all operating statuses and provide information about the driving area (chart plotter), are clearly visible to the driver at all times.
For living: The Steeler is a so-called Semi-custom construction, which means that the owner can design the lower deck and deck area. Of course, only as far as the design of the hull allows. The owner of our test boat opted for a saloon with a driving position, L-shaped sofa, table and sideboards. A companionway leads to the galley/dining area, which offers space for four to five people. There are three cabins for sleeping, the bow cabin is intended for VIP guests, a cabin over the entire width amidships is reserved for the owner.
In another centre cabin there is a bunk bed, which is particularly suitable for children and teenagers.
The owner has the largest wet room on board; in the second bathroom, the small toilet bowl is conspicuous, but the shipyard intends to change this. In the cockpit there is a seating area for two with a round table, a stern bench and a wet bar. The large double bench on the foredeck is an excellent vantage point; bathing fun takes place on the bathing platform at the stern. Shortcomings: The passageways to the platform have no doors and there is only one bathing ladder to hook onto. Anyone who forgets to hook it in before jumping into the cool water will have problems climbing back on board.
The well-ventilated and with a fire extinguishing system The secured technical compartment is located under the cockpit floor. Steeler has installed steps to make it easier to climb down and up. There is headroom for the technician in the engine compartment, and there is also plenty of room around the two Cummins diesels There is plenty of space around - so literally nothing stands in the way of a good service. The installations make just as good an impression as the overall boat finish.
Data sheet: Steeler NG 57 CS
Shipyard: Steeler Yachts
Type designation: Steeler NG 57 CS
CE category: A - High seas
Material of hull and deck: Steel
Length: 17,15 m
Width: 5,30 m
Displacement: 44,00 t
Price: 1.057.910,00 €
Ralf Marquard
Deputy Editor in Chief BOOTE
