Although the REV Ocean is often referred to as “the world’s largest yacht”, this is probably not quite right, as this private vessel is planned to be used mainly for scientific research expeditions
Hopefully, the contract signed with Damen Shiprepair Vlissingen (DSV) means that this large-scale expedition project is moving to its next significant stage.
Construction on the project, which was initially 182.9 m long, started at Norwegian Vard yard in 2017. The exterior of the REV Ocean was created by Espen Øino International, while the interiors are owed to H2 Yacht Design.
In 2021 there was a break in construction due to some technical issues. According to the statement from the yard, the vision of the vessel remained unchanged, but there was a need to enhance her functionality and reduce the weight.
In 2023 an agreement was reached to lengthen the REV Ocean by 12 meters, to replace some of her steel components with lighter materials and modify the layouts so that more space would be dedicated to scientists.
As the vessel’s key purpose is all kinds of marine research, the REV Ocean will be fitted with the most advanced equipment, including a variety of sensors to explore the underwater world and its inhabitants with an opportunity to process the collected data in the laboratories on board.
To support the research there will also be a three-person submarine, capable of working at the depth of 2 200 m, an ROV that can reach the depth of 6 000 m, and an onboard metal shop that can make and repair what’s necessary on missions.
It is also planned to use helicopters for passenger transport, re-supply and exploration, as the REV Ocean features two helidecks.
Based on the preliminary data, the vessel will be capable of accommodating up to 60 scientists and a crew of 30. For private luxury expeditions, the vessel can take up to 36 guests and a crew of 54.
The vessel's diesel-electric propulsion system, energy recovery rudder system and exhaust cleaning system, as well as a focus on fuel efficiency, underscore the REV Ocean's key goal to minimize her impact on the environment.
If everything goes according to the schedule and DSV manages to handle its tasks efficiently, the REV Ocean will be delivered at the end of 2026.
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