VARD Secures Contract with Inkfish for Cutting-Edge Research Vessel

VARD, a global leader in shipbuilding and maritime technology, is proud to announce the signing of a contract with Inkfish, a prominent US-based marine research organization, for the design and construction of a groundbreaking VARD 9 33 research vessel. This state-of-the-art vessel will be one of the most advanced research ships in the world, setting new standards in marine exploration and scientific innovation.

Inkfish is a global philanthropic organization 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. The tailor-made research vessel, named RV6000 for Inkfish, is specially designed for seafloor mapping with a world-leading gondola mounted sensor suite, submersive support and ROV operations with an operational capacity to 6000 m depth.

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.

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, utilizing advanced anti-roll technologies for reduced motions and accelerations and excellent station keeping performances whilst in Dynamic Positioning Mode.

“Together with our long-term owner Fincantieri, we leverage our expertise and ability to tackle complex challenges with the support of our skilled teams. 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 construction”, says Cathrine Kristiseter Marti, CEO VARD.

RV6000 has an ROV with operational capacity to reach 6000 m depth and is able to 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 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.

“Our research vessels are at the heart of what we do – they’re how we get science done. 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”, said Stu Buckle, Inkfish

“VARD is proud to partner with the highly demanding and professional team at Inkfish. This advanced and complex project fits VARD perfectly. To solve these challenging tasks shows the full capacity and competencies in Vard Group “, says SVP Sales and Marketing in VARD, Rune Rødset.

“The development of this vessel has been a demanding and challenging task. 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”, says Lead Designer in Vard Design, Torkild Skjong.

Through their integrated value chain, we are delivering the design, building the hull, outfitting, integrating, and commissioning the ships 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 synchronized 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 specialized 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 AS 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 crew well-being 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.

The hull of the vessel will be built at one of VARDs yards in Romania, while the outfitting, commissioning and delivery will be from one of VARD’s shipyards in Norway. The delivery is scheduled to be in Q2 2028.

Overall technical information of the VARD 9 33 research vessel: