Merlin-615 MKI Waterjet

The waterjet propulsion system operates by using high-pressure water to create a thrust that moves the liferaft efficiently through the water. Designed for crew evacuation, the Viking Life-Saving Equipment Norway AS Merlin-615 MKI Waterjet adheres to SOLAS certification standards for persons capacity. Regular maintenance is crucial; mandatory annual servicing at an approved service station includes hydrostatic release unit (HRU) replacement every two years and liferaft recertification or replacement every five years. Common failures include issues with the HRU, CO2 bottle pressure loss due to corrosion or aging, material degradation from UV exposure on deck, corrosion or blockage of fangleines, and expiration of survival equipment like life jackets and provisions. Always keep an HRU on board as a backup.