Oceandiva London - The Renewable Future of Marine Power on The Thames

Merging state of the art architectural design with the latest technology, Oceandiva London is set to revolutionise the marine environment, as London's newest floating events space. Launching Spring 2023, the UK’s first CO2-neutral venue on the Thames is part of an innovative operation to decarbonise the Capital's river by Net Zero Marine Services (NZMS). The pioneering project will steer towards a more sustainable future, by developing a new electric river highway installing electrical charging points for vessels from Westminster to Dartford.

Spearheaded by Oceandiva’s Captain, Robert Dwan, renewable energy will be available to all river-going vessels via the installation of Smart Docks next to existing piers. By 2030, there will be an 80% reduction of hydrocarbon fuel in the Capital’s waterways - the equivalent of 265,000 HGV movements each year.

The Thames flows through Captain Robert Dwan’s lineage, with 25 years of experience navigating its waters and 300 years of family history. Rooted in his deep commitment to the river, he founded the Net Zero Marine Services initiative alongside Director Miles Cole, designed to reimagine the future of marine power and lead the transition to net zero emissions, by delivering new shore power solutions. In the first phase, this will be executed via a network of high voltage electric Smart Docks where vessels can charge up, powering 6 million passenger trips and moving 4 million tonnes of cargo on the river annually, with zero emissions.

Clean and powerful, Hydrogen is widely seen as the future of fuel. In the second phase of the project, the team behind Oceandiva will work with select partners to deliver a network of green hydrogen production facilities across the UK, providing renewable power at strategic marine hubs. Net Zero Marine Services are working closely with the Thames Estuary Growth Board to deliver a hydrogen ecosystem to the Capital.

NZMS Director, Miles Cole said: “We are absolutely delighted to announce this collaboration with Oceandiva ltd. Our projects will help deliver first-of-a-kind shore power infrastructure on a tidal river for commercial applications, and demonstrates our commitment to reducing emissions across the Thames Estuary. We believe that that Oceandiva London will set a new standard on the Thames, it is a truly exciting to be involved.”

With sustainability at its core, Oceandiva is committed to leading the industry in minimising its impact by utilising advanced technology and environmental practices, including noise-reducing electric engines. Whether static or sailing, the architecture and design of the vessel allows for huge production values, an iconic setting for glamorous receptions, gala dinners, cutting edge product launches and brand activations. Spanning three decks and 2625m2, she is capable of hosting events for up to 1,500 and the extensive exterior space gives guests a unique opportunity to view London’s famous landmarks through its main artery…The River Thames.

Powered by 100% renewable energy Oceandiva London relies on fast charging shore based green electricity, supported by onboard solar panels and a back-up biofuel generator for longer excursions on the river Thames. Smart technology will allow the ship’s engineer to track and monitor all energy sources used, along with water consumption.

Working with industry body Isla, Oceandiva will be able to determine where carbon emission reductions can be made across the lifecycle of an event; from sourcing, energy used, food and beverage choices made, to audience travel and everything else in between. By tracking and measuring right from the planning stage through to event execution, they are able to effectively reduce their carbon footprint for each event held aboard.

Oceandiva’s owner and operator, Smart Group, is an industry trailblazer in sustainable events. From the final fit-out, including catering facilities and production, all aspects have been considered, which is why they are able to lead from the front and set an example for all other vessels on the Thames.

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