V.Ships Leisure in Monaco that is part of the London based V.Group, said it will partner with REV Ocean to provide a tailored suite of ship management services for the world’s largest and most advanced research and expedition vessel, scheduled for completion in 2021.
REV Ocean is a not-for-profit foundation created with one overarching purpose and ambition: To make the ocean healthy again. Any profit generated from our projects will be reinvested into our work for a healthier ocean. This global initiative is established and funded by Norwegian businessman Kjell Inge Røkke, the organsation says on its website
The vessel will be equipped for conducting research that covers the entire marine ecosystem, using advanced technology systems developed by world-leading knowledge clusters in Norway. It will be used by scientists for innovative research expeditions which explore issues such as the impact that CO2 emissions have on the oceans, plastic pollution, protection of endangered species and sustainable fishing.
The vessel will be constructed to run on diesel electric propulsion system, with an additional 3MW lithium-ion battery pack for peak shaving and ensuring optimum efficiency.
Following its launch at Vard's Tulcea shipyard, Romania on 23 August, the vessel is now on its way to the Brattvåg shipyard of Vara on the west coast of Norway for fitting out.
Per Bjornsen, V.Ships Leisure Director, said: “While the maritime industry endeavours to reduce carbon emissions across its global fleet, it’s also imperative that we continue look at the whole picture, both inside and outside of our industry, if we are to build towards a better and more sustainable future. With this in mind, we have made it our goal at V.Group to go beyond helping our customers to meet regulation, to leading the fight for cleaner shipping."
"This exciting new partnership with REV Ocean will allow us to leverage V.Group’s unique range of expertise and experience, and our powerful digital ship management platform ShipSure, to contribute to vital scientific research and maximise positive impact, on a vessel that demonstrates the cutting edge in green ship technology.”