Set to be the world’s largest yacht, the launch of 183m (600ft) REV Ocean has been delayed for “three to five years” according to the yacht’s project team.
In a statement posted on the yacht’s Instagram page, the team revealed “technical and weight challenges” meant that the record-breaking expedition yacht was currently “not in accordance with the specifications in the shipbuilding contract. “
Citing delays caused by the yard, the statement revealed delivery can’t take place until “the ship is able to conduct the research and expedition missions which the ship is intended for”. The team explained they had not received a timeline for when a compliant ship could be delivered, but estimated there to be a three to five-year delay.
The statement went on to say the substantial delay means there is the right to cancel the contract, however this has not so far been instigated, with the delivery of a compliant research and expedition vessel remaining the top priority for the owner.
REV Ocean was first announced in 2017, and arrived at the Vard Brattvåg shipyard in Norway to begin outfitting in February 2020. She undertook initial sea trials in August 2020, designed to test her performance and on-board technology. She was then due to head onwards to Lloyd Werft to be painted, fared and be given a high-quality superyacht finish. This journey was delayed, due to what, at the time, were said to be complications of the COVID-19 crisis.
REV Ocean will be one of the most advanced vessels in the world when she is finally delivered, fully equipped to carry out pioneering oceanographic research.
Her cutting-edge features will include eight research laboratories, a fully-equipped dive center and a crane attached to a trawl that will allow her to safely catch and release pelagic samples from 3,000m (9,840ft) below the surface of the sea.
She will also store a range of submersibles, both autonomous and remotely operated, to survey marine areas, currents, the seabed, fish, animals and plant life.
Offering accommodation for 36 guests and 54 crew members, REV will not be short on superyacht style luxuries, including three pool areas, extensive gym facilities and a spa and wellness zone.
At 182.9m (600ft), REV Ocean is 2.3m (7.5ft) bigger than 180.65m (592.6ft) AZZAM, currently the world’s largest superyacht. Her exterior design comes from Espen Oeino, with H2 Yacht Design responsible for her interiors. The VARD shipyard behind the build of REV Ocean is best known for commercial shipbuilding.
If you are interested in finding out more about explorer yachts like REV Ocean, to get a taste of their capabilities you can view all expedition yachts for sale.
Alternatively, if you are in the market for a large yacht you can browse all new and pre-owned superyachts for sale.
