After her technical launch in August 2019, the 182.9-metre Research Expedition Vessel (REV Ocean) has arrived at the Vard Brattvaag shipyard in Norway for the next phase of construction. The vessel ordered by Norwegian 4th richest man, Kjell Inge Røkke, is set to become the largest yacht in the world, beating out the current record holder, the 180-metre Azzam by 1.6 metres.
Photo: Lawrence Hislop via REV Ocean
REV Ocean earlier departed the Vard Tulcea shipyard in Romania, being pulled by the tugboat Kamarina.
Nina Jensen, CEO of REV Ocean, said upon the arrival:
Today is one of the most exciting moments in the development of our research vessel. We now watch with great anticipation as she will develop into a full-fledged and operational vessel with state of the art scientific equipment to be installed by the talented team at Vard Brattvaag. This is a major milestone towards achieving our mission of achieving one healthy ocean.
Photo: Lawrence Hislop via REV Ocean
REV has been commissioned by Norwegian ocean research company Rosellinis Four-10, owned by Norwegian industrialist billionaire Kjell Inge Roekke. His real-time net worth is estimated at $3.2 billion (Forbes). Meanwhile, REV Ocean is a not-for-profit foundation established and funded by Kjell Inge Røkke together with marine biologist Nina Jensen, former CEO of WWF Norway (Verdens naturfond).
Photo: Espen Gjelsten / Fuglefjellet via REV Ocean
The superyacht was designed by Espen Oeino for expedition activities has been built by commercial shipbuilder VARD. The renowned designer also worked on the world's largest expedition superyacht at the moment of writing, the 125-metre Lürssen Octopus.
Photo: Espen Gjelsten / Fuglefjellet via REV Ocean
Her robust exterior lines and modern features ensure she is able to cruise in arctic and tropical areas alike, with a hull built to ICE PC6 for navigation in ice. Two helipads can host drones and helicopter, while overhead cranes can lift and launch equipment weighing up to 20T over the side.
Photo: Lawrence Hislop via REV Ocean
REV Ocean will be equipped for conducting missions that cover the entire global marine ecosystem and will be an inclusive global vessel for testing and proliferating ocean solutions. The vessel will be used by scientists and innovators for solutions-oriented research that explore issues such as the impact CO2 emissions have on the ocean, plastic pollution, and unsustainable fishing.
The vessel is 182.9 meters long and will have the capacity of holding 55 scientists and 35 crew. Equipment on-board includes scientific trawls, sonar systems, laboratories, auditorium, moonpool, Triton submarine with 2,300-metre depth capacity, an ROV with 6,000-metre depth capacity and advanced communication equipment.
Photo: Lawrence Hislop via REV Ocean
The vessel will be constructed to run on diesel electric engines, with an additional 3MW lithium-ion battery pack for peak shaving and ensuring optimum efficiency. She will also qualify for the Polar Code adopted by The International Maritime Organisation for ships operating in Arctic and Antarctic conditions and can operate autonomously for 114 days.
Built for environmental research missions, the Research Expedition Vessel (REV) will also be available for charter for recreational purposes and expeditions.
Photo: Espen Gjelsten / Fuglefjellet via REV Ocean
George Gill, Project Director and Owners Representative, said:
REV’s arrival in Brattvåg is a crucial step in her development, she will lay here in Norway for the coming months, and this establishes the core groundwork for the research and operations of the vessel. Getting these important systems and her keystone machinery right is critical to her success and position within the Worlds research fleet.
Photo: Espen Gjelsten / Fuglefjellet via REV Ocean
Oystein Mikelborg, REV Ocean Operations Director, added:
The arrival in Brattvåg is a major milestone and a new chapter for REV Ocean. In the next few months, VARD Brattvaag will turn this into one of the world’s most advanced research vessels. The complexity and sheer scale of the work ahead is challenging, and I know it will be very busy days ahead both for the yard and the Owner’s team.
Photo: Espen Gjelsten / Fuglefjellet via REV Ocean
The vessel shall remain at the shipyard for eight-month outfitting, further headed to Germany for final stages of construction. The full completion is scheduled for late 2020/ early 2021.
The RMK120 Seven Seas has recently made waves in the yachting world, marking the sixth collaboration between Dutch design studio Vripack and the Turkish shipyard RMK Marine. This vessel is not just another yacht; it represents a pocket-sized explorer crafted with the essence of grand adventure in mind. Designed specifically for seasoned yachtsmen who dream of world cruising, this 36.8-meter super-efficient steel-hulled yacht is a perfect blend of expedition cruising and family-oriented design.From the outset, the exterior of the RMK120 Seven Seas captivates with its robust trawler-style lines, a hallmark of Vripack’s design philosophy. However, a deeper look reveals a thoughtful focus on enhancing the owner's experience, emphasizing spaces tailored for guest enjoyment while aboard. Each area is meticulously designed to foster connection and comfort, ensuring that time spent on the yacht is nothing short of extraordinary.One standout feature is the aft-facing seating on the three-tiered mezzanine. This unique arrangement is ideally situated between the expansive 9-meter-wide swim platform and the main dining area on the deck, providing an inviting social space with spectacular sea views. “The mezzanine seating offers a refreshing alternative to conventional forward-facing layouts," notes Bart M. Bouwhuis, co-creative director at Vripack. "It creates a layered deck that encourages interaction, facilitates easy access to the lazarette, and fosters a vibrant connection with the surrounding waters."Moving forward, the guest area splits beautifully, with sun loungers, dining spaces, and seating directly positioned in front of the bridge. Meanwhile, a technical workspace at the bow adds functional balance. The private top deck features partially shaded lounging options, a hot tub, a bar, sunpads, and ample dining arrangements, balanced by a substantial 55-square-meter tender deck to accommodate a 7.5-ton crane for effortless water toy launches.Cüneyt Okcu, Yacht Division Director at RMK Marine, describes the RMK120 Seven Seas as embodying "the power of elegance" and "the elegance of power." He emphasizes that like previous Vripack designs, this yacht instills a sense of coziness and safety, allowing owners to truly embrace the spirit of the sea.Seven Seas offering low operational costs and improved accessibility to remote destinations, all while ensuring a design centered on life aboard. The vessel will be showcased at the Monaco Yacht Show.Vripack is a yacht-design studio with a portfolio that represents over 7400 designs, made strong through its extensive naval architecture and engineering experience. From the moment they opened their doors in 1961, Vripack studio’s approach to design has been governed by the playful interaction between form and function.Credits: Vripack
September 20, 2024
The all-new Patrone 45', an impressive 14-meter Italian yacht designed by architect Tommaso Spadolini, has made waves following its world debut at the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival and is now turning heads at the Genoa Boat Show. Developed in collaboration with the Moreno family, owners of the Patrone Moreno shipyard, this unique open cruiser showcases remarkable marine capabilities while embodying the classic style of the Ligurian gozzo."The Patrone 45' emerged from the success of the Patrone 100, responding to requests from owners who sought to capture the same elegance of our beloved 10-meter model on a larger scale,” Spadolini explained. He added that the yacht was designed for those who desire an open-air experience without compromising interior comfort. With light and space as guiding principles, expansive windows provide seamless views of the sea.The Patrone 45’ continues to elevate interest among boating enthusiasts at the Genoa Boat Show at pier P (berth P101 – stand BP01). It harmonizes the brand’s century-old craftsmanship with modern flair, focusing on onboard conviviality, a vision embraced by Gianarnaldo and Benedetta Moreno, representing the shipyard’s fifth generation. This yacht is reinterpreting the classic charm of the Ligurian gozzo in a contemporary context.With configurations emphasizing spaciousness, the Patrone 45’ features three cockpit layouts: a C lounge, a Y sofa, and an LL chaise-longue, accommodating various social settings. The first showcased unit provides a roomy C-shaped seating area at the aft, capable of seating eight, with a clever hydraulic lift system for easy engine access.Inside, choices abound with six customizable layouts. Whether designed for a family, friends, or couples, each layout ensures ample comfort, including one fixed owner's cabin with an ensuite bathroom. Sustainable materials, including eco-teak decking and low-impact finishes, embody the shipyard’s commitment to environmental respect, enhancing this vessel’s appeal as both elegant and eco-conscious.Credits: Alexander Panzeri/Tommaso Spadolini
September 20, 2024
Feadship has officially launched Feadship Resale, a new initiative aimed at assisting yacht owners in reselling their vessels. Though owners have traditionally turned to the yards for guidance, with requests being referred to brokerages, the yard has now decided to take a more proactive role. SavannahArjen van Elk, Feadship Resale Manager, explains, “At Feadship, our relationship with yachts extends well beyond their delivery. Our extensive knowledge of these vessels, paired with our lifelong dedication to our owners, uniquely positions us to provide a level of service unmatched in the industry. We offer significant value in the resale process, leveraging our access to archival information, skilled craftsmen, and the engineers behind each yacht.”MonacoFeadship Resale is focused on ensuring that clients maintain their investment over the long term. The yard's comprehensive expertise regarding every detail of the yachts they have constructed allows them to provide bespoke advice that reflects the yacht’s individual history and specifications. Feadship aims to collaborate closely with the brokerage community, safeguarding the interests of clients during every transaction to create a smooth and worry-free ownership experience.Double HeavenThis initiative reinforces Feadship’s commitment to building lasting relationships with clients and the yachts they have created. It transcends mere transactions, aiming to uphold the legacy of each Feadship, ensuring that they continue delivering value and joy to their owners for many years. Feadship Resale embodies this dedication by offering customized solutions with long-term advantages.Currently, Feadship has listed five unique yachts for resale:- Monaco (37.95m, 1981)- Somnium (55.20m, 2021)- Savannah (83.50m, 2015)- Double Haven (51.00m, 1993)- Wedge Too (65.00m, 2003)During the Monaco Yacht Show, prospective buyers can request private viewings of Somnium, Monaco, and Wedge Too, with Arjen van Elk available for appointments.Wedge TooFeadship Resale is designed to enhance the brokerage community rather than replace it, providing brokers with in-depth knowledge that empowers them to offer clients informed guidance. The yard’s collaboration with top brokerage firms ensures that the interests of their clients are prioritized throughout the entire process.SomniumThis initiative aligns with the Feadship Refit & Services department launched in 2018, aimed at preserving the prestigious lineage of the Feadship fleet while addressing the growing demand for Feadship expertise. Just as Refit & Services became a key component of Feadship’s ecosystem, Feadship Resale enhances the support available to yacht owners throughout their ownership journey. Feadship is dedicated to ensuring that the experience remains fulfilling for future generations, reinforcing the enduring success and value of the Feadship brand.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
September 20, 2024
Following its triumphant showcase at the Cannes boat shows, the Ferretti Group is heading to the Genoa International Boat Show, marking its 64th edition, with a fleet of seven vessels, including two premieres: the Ferretti Yachts INFYNITO 80 and the Pershing GTX80.The fleet exemplifies the creativity and innovative spirit of Ferretti’s renowned brands, which include Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Custom Line, and Wally. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to experience the Italian debuts of the INFYNITO 80 and the GTX80.INFYNITO 80The Ferretti Yachts INFYNITO 80 is tailored for sea-loving owners who prioritize environmental sustainability, featuring the Group’s F.S.E.A. Technology (Ferretti Sustainable Enhanced Architecture). This model enhances the onboard experience with expansive covered outdoor spaces that create a seamless transition between interior and exterior living.Pershing GTX80The Pershing GTX80 combines comfort and excitement with intelligently designed spaces and boasts a spacious 23-square-meter sundeck, featuring the innovative SeaScape design. This sporty yacht harmonizes elegance, space, and the exhilarating essence of the Pershing brand.In addition to the premier models, visitors will also be able to admire a selection of other remarkable vessels, including the Ferretti Yachts 720, Custom Line 106’, Riva 56’ Rivale HT, Riva 88’ Folgore, and wallywhy100.Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi expressed his enthusiasm: “Our exquisite boats are the result of substantial investments, creative visions, and a collaborative spirit synonymous with the Ferretti Group. We have an array of talents committed to continuous improvement. By the end of 2026, we anticipate launching 25 new models. The fleet we’re bringing to Genoa will illuminate the future of yachting, showcasing innovation and sustainability, particularly with the remarkable INFYNITO 80. With very positive economic results this year, we are poised for continued growth and to create beauty.”As always, the Group's presence at the event will be enhanced by luxury partners, featuring a range of exciting programs. Notable partners include automotive leader Range Rover, private aviation expert Flexjet, and Seabob, along with Torello, RODA for you, Frette, Venini, Atelier Rebul, and Unopiù for upscale decor. Italian partners like Dolce & Gabbana for bespoke staff uniforms, Lavazza with its premium coffee selections, and La Scolca for fine wines and champagnes will also contribute to the event, alongside Bang & Olufsen, specializing in audio products and home entertainment.The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credit: Ferretti Group
September 19, 2024
Lusben, a division of the Azimut|Benetti Group focused on refit and repair projects, is delighted to announce the appointment of Eng. Ferdinando Pilli as General Manager, effective September 2024.Throughout his extensive career, Pilli has held senior positions in prominent shipyards, acquiring significant expertise in both new building and refitting processes. He joined the Azimut|Benetti Group in 2018 and has served as the Custom Operations Director within the Benetti division most recently.Ferdinando PilliIn his new role at Lusben, Pilli will drive the division's growth and expansion, building on the major investment plan initiated in 2023 aimed at solidifying Lusben’s status as a leading authority in the refit and repair of motor and sailing yachts in the Mediterranean.“I am thrilled to take on this challenge and join such an esteemed company during this pivotal phase of growth, where innovation and efficiency will be central to our team’s efforts,” stated Ferdinando Pilli, the new General Manager of Lusben.Marco Valle, CEO of the Azimut|Benetti Group, expressed confidence in Pilli's appointment, stating, “We are excited to hand this responsibility to Ferdinando Pilli. His extensive expertise within the Group and experience from various shipyards will undoubtedly enhance Lusben’s offerings and strengthen our position as a global leader in the refit sector.”Lusben was founded in 1958 in Viareggio. The shipyard has over 60 years of experience in the yacht refit sector. Credits: Lusben
September 19, 2024