REV Ocean

REV Ocean represents one of the most ambitious yacht projects ever conceived. At 194.9 metres and an extraordinary 19,235 GT, the vessel is redefining the boundaries between luxury superyacht design, scientific research and global exploration. When completed, she will become the world's largest purpose-built research and expedition yacht, establishing an entirely new category within the superyacht industry.

The project is being built by VARD, with final outfitting and completion taking place at Damen Shiprepair Vlissingen in the Netherlands. Developed in collaboration with renowned naval architect Espen Øino, H2 Yacht Design was commissioned to create the vessel's vast interior environment.

Unlike any conventional superyacht, REV Ocean has been conceived as a platform for discovery. Equipped with some of the world's most advanced oceanographic technology, the vessel will support pioneering marine research through deep-diving submersibles, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), advanced laboratories and specialist research facilities capable of exploring almost every corner of the world's oceans. Two helipads support aerial surveys and expedition logistics, while a fully equipped dive centre, observatory, multifunctional cargo deck, dedicated storage for autonomous submersibles, cinema and auditorium further enhance the vessel's capability as a floating centre for exploration, education and collaboration.

The project's vision extends far beyond private ownership. Once delivered, REV Ocean will dedicate approximately 25 per cent of its operational time to charter, allowing guests to participate directly in scientific expeditions and marine conservation projects. Revenue generated through charter operations will help fund the vessel's ongoing scientific research and philanthropic initiatives, creating a unique model where luxury travel actively supports ocean conservation. Charter operations will be managed by Burgess, offering guests the rare opportunity to experience one of the world's most extraordinary explorer yachts while contributing to meaningful scientific work.

This purpose is central to owner Kjell Inge Røkke's vision for the project:

“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.” — Kjell Inge Røkke, Founder, REV Ocean

Environmental responsibility is equally fundamental to the yacht's engineering. Advanced diesel-electric propulsion, energy recovery systems and emissions-reduction technologies have been incorporated throughout the vessel, demonstrating how the next generation of large custom yachts can combine operational efficiency with environmental responsibility.

Far more than a luxury superyacht, REV Ocean represents a new benchmark for explorer yacht design. By combining world-leading scientific capability with one of the largest bespoke interiors ever undertaken by H2 Yacht Design, the project demonstrates how exceptional yacht design can contribute to research, conservation and global discovery while delivering an unparalleled onboard experience.