The industrial stalwart Kjell Inge Røkke has commissioned the construction of a 181.6 metre long, state-of-the-art vessel from Vard shipyard that will also be used for environmental research missions.
This vessel will be one of the most advanced research expedition vessels in the world. It will be used for monitoring and surveying marine areas, currents, the seabed, fish, animals and plant life in all of the world’s oceans.
According to the Business Insider this Research Expedition Vessel (REV) will be designed by Espen Oeino and will be used in partnership with WWF to conduct the research missions. It will be used privately by its owner and will be available for charters. Røkke will make the vessel available to scientists and environmentalists to study the ocean.
Yachting and Building World reported that the REV will enter service in 2020. The hull will be built at Vard Tulcea in Romania and towed to Vard Brattvaag in Norway for outfitting. REV has been designed with slim hull lines in combination with wave-cutting bulb, slender fore-ship, large propellers and two pairs of stabilisation fins.
Other key features are the energy recovery rudder system, medium speed engines, a direct drive diesel-electric propulsion system with battery package, and an exhaust cleaning system. The vessel will also employ Vard’s SeaQ Green Pilot, a data driven maritime energy management and operational performance system.
Performance analytics
By using real-time measurements, mathematical models and analysis of the REV’s performance, an expert system will give the operator advice on the ship’s performance and fuel consumption.
The research and expedition area features modern laboratories, an auditorium, a hangar for a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) and an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) with direct access to the vessel’s moon-pool, and a multifunctional cargo deck.
In total, REV will have accommodation space for 90 people, although it will only take a maximum of 36 guests on board.
Røkke was quoted as saying: ‘The REV will be a platform for gathering knowledge. I would like to welcome researchers, environmental groups, and other institutions on board, to acquire new skills to evolve innovative solutions to address challenges and opportunities connected to the seas.’
