The groundbreaking contract, signed in collaboration with Rossilini’s Four-10, marks a crucial phase in the completion of this innovative project.
In 2019, a member of the YachtBuyer team visited REV Ocean during her construction phase in Norway. At that time, plans were in place for the vessel to proceed to Lloyd Werft in Bremerhaven, Germany, for final outfitting after the delivery of the 140-meter superyacht Solaris in 2021. However, the project encountered significant delays due to technical and weight challenges at the shipyard, leading to a postponement of the vessel's completion. These setbacks have extended the expected delivery timeline to late 2026.
REV Ocean boasts an impressive set of updated specifications, addressing previous technical challenges. The vessel will measure 195 meters (640 feet) in length, with a beam of 22 meters (72 feet) and a gross tonnage of 19,045 GT. She will now incorporate advanced stability modifications, including a reinforced hull structure and enhanced buoyancy systems. The vessel's fuel capacity exceeds 1 million liters, ensuring long-range expeditions with optimized fuel efficiency. Onboard, the yacht will accommodate 54 crew members and up to 36 guests, including scientists and researchers, with upgraded science laboratories, mission-ready workspaces, and enhanced research facilities. Additionally, she will feature an extended range of over 21,000 nautical miles, making her a globally capable platform for scientific discovery and conservation efforts.
A Record-Breaking Superyacht
When delivered, REV Ocean will be the undisputed biggest yacht in the world, topping both major superyacht ranking systems: the YachtBuyer YB100, which measures yachts by gross tonnage (GT), and the traditional Top100, which ranks by length overall (LOA). Currently, Dilbar holds the No.1 spot in the YB100 with 15,917 GT, while Azzam is the longest yacht in the Top100 at 180 meters. REV Ocean, with an estimated 19,045 GT and a 195-meter length, will surpass both, cementing her dominance in both categories. The vessel is currently undergoing sea trials at VARD's Norwegian facility before heading to Damen for final outfitting.
Scope of the Damen Contract
The contract includes comprehensive interior and exterior outfitting at Damen’s covered drydock in Vlissingen, ensuring the yacht is prepared for her unique role as a state-of-the-art research and expedition platform. As part of the refit, the yacht has undergone a 12-meter amidships extension, enhancing buoyancy and increasing onboard science capacity.
Notably, REV Ocean’s refit will include a rearranged layout, expanded science laboratories, a submarine hangar, and a media center for broadcasting live research findings. The research yacht will also feature a 3D printing facility and onboard metal workshop, allowing for self-sufficiency while on extended missions at sea.
REV Ocean will be a platform for scientific collaboration, helping us to better understand and protect our oceans
Owner
A Vision for Ocean Conservation
The project is spearheaded by Norwegian businessman Kjell Inge Røkke, who envisions REV Ocean as a vital platform for ocean research. The vessel will serve as a hub for marine scientists, environmental groups, and researchers to develop solutions for ocean sustainability and conservation.
“This is more than just a yacht,” Røkke stated. “REV Ocean will be a platform for scientific collaboration, helping us to better understand and protect our oceans.”
Sustainable and Technologically Advanced
As an environmentally conscious vessel, REV Ocean is being built with fuel-efficient technologies, including a direct drive diesel-electric propulsion system, an energy recovery rudder, and exhaust cleaning systems to minimize her environmental footprint. Despite her increased size, the yacht’s advanced engineering ensures that fuel consumption remains efficient, with a 32% increase in fuel capacity boosting her overall range.
A Global Expedition Mission
Once delivered, she will embark on an extensive research expedition, beginning with a voyage to the Arctic via the Norwegian coast before heading south to the Southern Ocean through the United States and South America. REV Ocean will also be available for charter, providing unique opportunities for scientific institutions and philanthropists to support global ocean research.
A Milestone for Damen Shiprepair Vlissingen
The contract for REV Ocean represents a major win for Damen Shiprepair Vlissingen, further securing her reputation as a premier shipyard for large-scale yacht outfitting and complex maritime projects. With this milestone agreement, Damen plays a key role in delivering one of the most advanced and significant vessels in modern yachting history.
The industry now eagerly awaits the completion of REV Ocean, a vessel that not only redefines superyacht rankings but also pioneers new frontiers in ocean research and conservation.
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