This project came with several unique challenges. At each stage, DMS stepped up to create a safe and creative solution.
Limited Shoreside Power
An electric sauna heater was key. Low maintenance and easy to use. But electric heaters need a LOT of power. More than the marina supplied. DMS created a complex electric system with multiple feeders to work around these power limits. Then we supplemented with a safe propane heater for those cold days. Give us a challenge, and we find solutions.
Swimming in Winter
There’s nothing better than going straight from the hot sauna and plunging into the freezing lake water. (That’s what they tell me.) But cold lakes freeze over. You can’t swim on ice. DMS added bubblers and a floating barricade to prevent ice forming. Even in winter, this sauna preserves a little plunge pool. And the design ensures floating assistance is never far away, protecting the swimmers.
Uneven Weight Distribution
The layout for the sauna created an uneven weight distribution. Uncorrected, the entire vessel floated with a giant tilt. Instead of forcing the Client to redesign their layout, we redesigned the hull. We added extra buoyancy and hidden ballast to carefully balance out the ship. Plus some ballast tanks for fine adjustments. Now the sauna can float level every time.
Open Flames
Our Client wanted an open flame fire pit on the front porch. This was a key feature. Most naval architects will tell you that open flames spell death on a ship. They are a major no-no. Instead, DMS found alternatives. We located a product that protects the flame inside a tall glass tube. This actually made the flame taller for added beauty, plus doubled the heating efficiency. Safer, looks better, and less maintenance. A win all around.
Ice Buildup
With any ship in winter, you worry about ice and snow accumulating on deck. DMS specifically checked stability against ice accumulation. The second worry was slips and falls on deck. So DMS a heated de-icing system underneath the deck. Protected from weather exposure, this system heated the walkways to prevent ice buildup. No maintenance and no worries.
This vessel slipped between the cracks of regulations. Not quite fitting into any one agency’s jurisdiction. One government agency after another looked at this project with fear. Many of them tried to stop the project. But DMS stayed one step ahead each time.
Despite the lack of regulation, DMS ensured the vessel voluntarily complied with all the standard safety rules. We documented all our efforts and designed the ship to avoid any grey areas of regulatory jurisdiction. End result, no one stopped the project. Each time they questioned of safety, DMS provided PE stamped drawings and reports ready to go. All proving safety. Even without government oversight, DMS keeps you safe. And arms you for easy regulatory compliance.
