The interior renderings of the 194.9-metre expedition vessel REV Ocean – also known as the world's largest superyacht – have been revealed by her central agency for charter, Burgess.
This follows the news that the record-breaking build will soon depart Vard's facilities in Norway for the Netherlands, where she will undergo 15 to 18 months of outfitting at Damen Shiprepair Vlissingen. Once delivered, REV Ocean will spend "25 per cent" of her time chartering, with guests able to partake in science projects contributing to marine conservation efforts. The resulting charter fees will supplement REV Ocean's scientific and philanthropic work.
The 19,235GT project began her construction journey over eight years ago. Vard has confirmed that its vision for the vessel remains "unchanged", with work done to improve its functionality. This included an amidships extension of 12 metres, lengthening the existing hull to increase buoyancy and replacing some steel with lightweight materials. REV Ocean also has a rearranged layout that sees "more space and increased science capacity in the main hangar of the vessel".
Owner and Norwegian businessman Kjell Inge Røkke previously explained: "REV [Ocean] 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."
Although it will not be considered a fully-fledged superyacht, the vessel has been developed in collaboration with leading superyacht designer Espen Øino. A multitude of outdoor lounges, a tennis court, swimming pool and spa will be some of the leisure features enjoyed by charter guests.
Advanced oceanography equipment has been fitted on board, allowing the vessel to survey marine areas, currents, the seabed, fish, animals and plant life. Following the extension, REV Ocean also has space for a dedicated submarine hangar, a HiPAP system to track subsea equipment and an additional science lab. A 3D printing facility and onboard metal shop will allow the team to be relatively self-sufficient, creating spare parts while on missions.
REV Ocean is also equipped with a media room for conducting livestreamed podcasts and interviews with people on board, with the team already in contact with documentary makers from the likes of Netflix and Disney. "I don’t want to disclose anything we’re planning," added REV Ocean CEO Nina Jensen, "But if there’s someone that you think is super exciting, you can rest assured that this person will be invited to come aboard."
As is fitting for an environmentally conscious project, REV Ocean has been designed to be as fuel efficient as possible, with an energy recovery rudder system, medium speed engines, diesel-electric propulsion and an exhaust cleaning system. The yacht's increase in size, however, has led to a 32 per cent increase in fuel capacity (and a corresponding increase in range) – though the shipyard has said that her new length would "have a fairly minor impact on fuel consumption".
"Launching REV Ocean to the charter market, the largest yacht in the world, is a milestone not just for Burgess but for the entire yachting industry," said Ben Harwood, sales and charter director at Burgess. "This is more than a vessel – it’s a global platform for the most unique guest experiences filled with ocean discovery, marine conservation, and meaningful impact. By seamlessly integrating research with expeditions, it sets a new benchmark for how yachting can transform the guest experience, offering unmatched access to the rarest and most extraordinary opportunities."
Plans for REV Ocean's maiden voyage include a trip to the Arctic via the Norwegian coast, after which she will make her way down to the Southern Ocean via the United States and South America.
Read More/REV Ocean: Inside the build of the world's largest ocean research explorer