The design and construction of Venetian gondolas for a tourism company in Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires, has been one of the most unique and exciting projects I have had the privilege to work on. The project involves the design and construction of seven gondolas used for tourist rides, with the main objective being to create a gondola that maintains as original an appearance as possible while using current materials and technologies to offer an unforgettable navigation experience.
Motivation
What motivated me to embark on this project was its exclusivity; a product rich in history brought into modern times and unique in Latin America. Although the design was an individual effort, the construction of the molds and gondolas was carried out by the specialized fiberglass boatyard, Novatecnia.
Challenges and Solutions
One of the biggest challenges was obtaining the necessary approvals for the project and construction from the respective authorities due to the commercial use of the gondolas for transporting tourists. Thanks to my experience in this type of procedures and professional project presentation, I was able to overcome these obstacles. The prototype gondola was tested by the Argentine Coast Guard (PNA) and successfully passed the stability test in the water, meeting the required freeboard with all allowed passengers on board at one side.
Innovation in Propulsion
The most notable innovation of the project was the propulsion system solution. My client required the gondola navigation experience to be unique, sustainable, and identical to the original. I designed a hybrid propulsion system, which, in addition to using the oar, included an electric motor hidden under the rower's platform, activated by foot. This solution was a resounding success.
Results and Impact
The project not only achieved its main goal of offering a unique tourist experience but also had a positive impact on the urban area of Puerto Madero. The landscape of the docks was beautified by the presence of the gondolas and the embarkation station built for this purpose. Additionally, the events organized by my client, including opera singers performing from the gondolas, were truly spectacular.
Acknowledgments
I would like to thank the company "Góndolas Turísticas" for entrusting us with this project and the "Astilleros Novatecnia" boatyard for building the gondolas in record time.
Conclusion
The design and construction of these Venetian gondolas has been an enriching experience and an example of how innovation and tradition can merge to create something truly unique.
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