Global research organisation Inkfish selects VARD to design and construct an advanced research vessel in a record-breaking deal.
VARD has signed a contract with global research organisation Inkfish for the design and construction of a next-generation research vessel based on the VARD 9 42 design, marking a major milestone for the Norwegian shipbuilder.
The contract, valued at nearly €700 million, is the largest order ever secured by VARD for a single vessel and represents the largest contract of its kind awarded to a Norwegian shipyard.
A subsidiary of the Fincantieri Group, VARD is recognised as one of the world’s leading designers and builders of specialised vessels. The new research vessel will be developed to support advanced scientific exploration and marine research activities, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and capabilities tailored to demanding offshore operations.
The new research vessel, project-named RV11000 (length of 162 m and a beam of 28 m), represents a significant advancement in capability, building on the engineering and design foundations established by Inkfish’s first purpose-built research vessel, project-named RV6000 (length of 100 m and a beam of 20,7 m), contracted with Vard in 2025. Both vessels will join Inkfish’s growing fleet, alongside RV Hydra and RV Dagon, to support marine research globally and contribute data to open-sourced repositories.
Developed by Vard Design in Ålesund, Norway, in collaboration with Inkfish and their technical partner YTMC and with the support of the Fincantieri Group—one of the world’s largest builders of highly complex vessels and a leader in advanced underwater systems and innovation as well as in the defense sector—RV11000 is a tailor-made research vessel designed for seafloor mapping, corer operations, submarine handling and support, and ROV operations at depths of up to 11,000 metres.
RV11000 will feature the largest battery installation ever fitted on a ship, enabling 12 hours of silent scientific sub operations.
The vessel will be certified in accordance with the latest IACS cybersecurity requirements. The notation Cyber Security (Essential, +) from DNV gives an assurance that the ship essential functions are built for resilience against modern-day digital threats
“This next-generation vessel builds on earlier designs to deliver significantly greater capability, flexibility, and reach to enable science. RV11000 will be a custom-built platform that pushes the boundaries on what is possible for marine research – strengthening our ability to support scientists and unlock new understanding of the ocean. Bringing researchers, shipbuilders, and operators together from the outset has ensured the design is driven directly by scientific ambition and need,” says Stu Buckle, new builds and special projects at Inkfish.
This next-generation vessel builds on earlier designs to deliver significantly greater capability, flexibility, and reach to enable science. RV11000 will be a custom-built platform that pushes the boundaries on what is possible for marine research – strengthening our ability to support scientists and unlock new understanding of the ocean. Bringing researchers, shipbuilders, and operators together from the outset has ensured the design is driven directly by scientific ambition and need, says Stu Buckle, new builds and special projects at Inkfish.
The vessel offers high-level accommodation with increased comfort for 130 crew members and scientists, mostly in single cabins, along with extensive public facilities. Dedicated working spaces such as offices, laboratories, and workshops are arranged to ensure the highest scientific quality and working environment.
CEO at Vard Group, Cathrine Kristiseter Marti says: “We are extremely proud that Inkfish has returned to Vard Group for another research vessel. This vessel is truly unique in all terms with a high level of new design ideas and technological solutions. This level of innovation and creativity would not be possible without the engagement of our long-term owner Fincantieri and their goal to further develop our mutual portfolio of highly technological solutions. I am also impressed with the skilled Vard Team working on this project. The excellence they show is groundbreaking and contributes to elevating the vessel’s capabilities and operational excellence.”
With capabilities in seafloor mapping, coring, and the deployment of submersibles, ROVs, and autonomous vehicles, alongside dedicated laboratories and systems for data and sample processing, RV11000 seeks to reveal previously unknown regions, build the most comprehensive deep-ocean dataset to date, and open new frontiers for scientific exploration.
Rune Rødset, SVP Sales and Marketing at VARD, says:”The RV11000 is not just another research vessel – it represents a new level of ambition in deep-sea exploration. No other vessel has combined such a wide range of newly developed and highly advanced technologies into a single platform dedicated to operating at the deepest parts of the ocean.”
“Being part of a project of this magnitude is both humbling and inspiring. The innovation level, and the determination from Inkfish have resulted in a vessel that stands in a class of its own.”
Through VARD’s integrated value chain, the group is delivering the design, building the hull, outfitting, integrating, and commissioning the vessel for the customer.
RV11000 will be equipped with a comprehensive SeaQ solution from Vard Electro, covering power, control, bridge and communication systems in one integrated delivery. The vessel will feature an advanced propulsion setup combining DC technology with one of the largest battery installations ever delivered in the maritime, enabling highly efficient and flexible operations.
The delivery also introduces a newly developed bridge concept, where the operator environment is expanded beyond traditional navigation to include research and safety functions. Developed/designed in close collaboration with leading industrial designers, the solution reflects a future-oriented approach to vessel operations, combining advanced technology with a strong focus on usability, integration and operational efficiency.
For RV11000, 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 with 11,000 meter depth capacity, shipboard cranes and an offshore crane. The delivery also includes Corer System, CTD System, Moonpool, Hatches and Drop Keel.
Vard Interiors sets a new benchmark for premium maritime environments. By combining high-end interior design in the crew and public areas with advanced HVAC and piping systems, the project reflects a refined balance between technical performance and elevated design.
The next generation HVAC system meets Comfort Class with C1 standards, delivering high indoor air quality and 100 percent fresh air ventilation. Advanced air purification, continuous monitoring, and an efficient heat pump solution ensure both comfort and operational reliability, while supporting future smart vessel capabilities.
The hull of the vessel will be built at Vard Shipyards Romania – Tulcea, while the outfitting, commissioning and delivery will be from one of VARD’s yards in Norway. Delivery is scheduled to be Q1 2030.
