VARD, one of the major global designers and shipbuilders of specialised vessels, has announced that it has signed a contract with the global research organisation Inkfish for the design and construction of one of the most advanced research vessels the world has seen. The vessel is of the new VARD 9 33 design. The value of the contract exceeds 200 Mill euros.
Inkfish is a global philanthropic organisation that integrates vessels, engineering, medical innovation and operational expertise to develop new technologies and further marine research initiatives.
The custom-built research vessel, project name RV6000, is specially designed for scientific exploration. It will join Inkfish’s growing fleet, alongside RV Hydra and RV Dagon, to support marine research globally. Working closely with host countries, data collected contributes to open-sourced repositories.
RV6000 has an ROV with operational capacity to reach 6000 m depth and can support two manned submersibles. It is equipped with a stern-mounted A-Frame system and a large hangar for maintenance and storage. On the starboard side, an offshore crane equipped with AHC is configured for operations down to 2,500 meters.
The vessel is fitted with a hydroacoustic survey system capable of high-resolution seafloor mapping at 0.5 x 1 degrees resolution and water column analysis across all depths.
The technical arrangements include hybrid power generation and propulsion, enabling the vessel to reach a speed of 15 knots. The hull is developed for advanced seafloor mapping performance as well as superior seakeeping abilities, utilising advanced anti-roll technologies for reduced motions and accelerations and excellent station keeping performances whilst in Dynamic Positioning Mode.
The vessel also features state-of-the-art laboratories, offices and workshops, with high-quality accommodation and recreational facilities designed for enhanced comfort. These amenities support up to 70 crew members and scientists and meet the stringent DNV COMF (Comfort Class) notation, with exceptionally low levels of noise and vibration.
The design is the result of an ongoing collaborative development effort initiated in early 2024 by Inkfish and their UK-based technical representatives, YTMC. It incorporates both current and anticipated requirements from Inkfish’s pioneering teams in science, subsea, and aviation who will operate aboard the vessel.
“Together with our long-term owner Fincantieri, we leverage our expertise and ability to tackle complex challenges with the support of our skilled teams,” said CEO in VARD Cathrine Kristiseter Marti. “The result is a unique vessel built for the future in terms of its mission, design and on-board technology. Fincantieri and VARD are thrilled to contribute with our excellence to this groundbreaking project, and we are looking forward to continuous collaboration with Inkfish throughout the production.”
“Our research vessels are at the heart of what we do – they’re how we get science done,” said Stu Buckle, Inkfish. “We’re excited to be working with VARD on the next step in that journey: a world-class vessel that will dramatically increase our capacity and broaden the support we can offer the global research community. This has been a unique opportunity to involve the researchers to collaborate with the ship builder and the operators from the first stage of the design process.”
Through our integrated value chain, we deliver the design, building the hull, outfitting, integrating, and commissioning the ship for the customer.
Vard Electro delivers solutions from the highly technological SeaQ portfolio, focused on safety, efficiency, and GHG emissions reduction. The vessel features a fully integrated SeaQ Bridge, operated through 12” touchscreens with a highly intuitive matrix, providing both a comprehensive overview and complete control of bridge navigation and critical onboard systems via big-screen displays. This extends to the Mission/ROV Control Room, where a video wall with data display and four-split functionality enables synchronised operations, with full system integration of sonar package, CCTV, navigation and external sources.
The vessel will also be equipped with SeaQ Green Pilot, a cloud-based solution that enables real-time monitoring of fuel consumption, energy use, and emissions – both onboard and remotely. In addition, the delivery includes a class 2 dynamic positioning notation with closed bus-tie, enhancing energy efficiency and operational reliability. Combined, these technologies contribute to more efficient and environmentally conscious vessel operations.
Seaonics is a specialised supplier of mission critical handling equipment. Their deliveries for scientific research vessels focus on high operability, robustness and sustainability in the design. For RV6000, Seaonics will deliver the comprehensive and advanced lift- and handling package to support Inkfish’s research missions. The package includes an A-frame system, scientific winch system, launch and recovery system for ROV and offshore crane.
Vard Interiors delivers cutting-edge interior solutions combined with sustainable HVAC-R and piping systems, blending high-quality craftsmanship with a strong focus on energy efficiency. This project sets a new benchmark for premium interiors on working vessels, combining innovative design and high- quality materials. Every area is carefully planned to ensure comfort and functionality, supporting well- being onboard, while providing an inspiring environment. Vard Interiors ensures this vessel stands out by redefining what a modern, sustainable workspace at sea can look and feel like.
“VARD is proud to partner with the highly demanding and professional team at Inkfish,” said SVP Sales and Marketing in VARD Rune Rødset. “This advanced and complex project fits VARD perfectly. To solve these challenging tasks shows the full capacity and competencies in Vard Group.”
“The development of this vessel has been a demanding and challenging task,” said Lead Designer in Vard Design Torkild Skjong. “But with the excellent cooperation with the technical and operational team from Inkfish it has been a journey in the search for developing the most ultimate research vessel the world has seen so far.”
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