Vard secures contract for research expedition vessel

3 May 2017 – Vard Holdings Limited announced that it has secured a contract for the design and construction of one Research Expedition Vessel for Rosellinis Four-10. Rosellinis Four-10 is wholly-owned by the Norwegian industrialist Kjell Inge Røkke and his family. Developed by Vard Design in collaboration with the customer and the designer Espen Øino, the Research Expedition Vessel (REV) is expected to enter service in 2020. The hull will be built at Vard Tulcea in Romania, and towed to Vard Brattvaag in Norway for outfitting. After delivery in Norway, the vessel will return to Romania for fairing, deck laying and finalization of the accommodation area. The highly specialized vessel is tailor-made for worldwide research and expedition activities, with the objective of developing knowledge and sustainable solutions to address the ocean’s environmental challenges. WWF Norway is invited by the shipowner to take part in the further development of the research and expedition project. Equipped with the latest technology on board, the vessel will be one of the most advanced research expedition vessels in the world. Equipment for monitoring and surveying marine areas, currents, the seabed, fish, animals and plant life in all of the world’s oceans will be available on the vessel. Environmental performance has been crucial throughout the concept- and development phase. The VARD 6 16 design is developed for navigating waters in the most challenging and vulnerable environments, from arctic to tropical areas. To secure the most cost efficient, silent, comfortable and environmentally friendly expeditions in all weather conditions, the vessel is designed with slim hull lines in combination with wave-cutting bulb, slender foreship, large propellers and two pairs of stabilization fins. Other key features are the energy recovery rudder system, medium speed engines, a direct drive diesel-electric propulsion system with battery package, and an exhaust cleaning system.