This is not the classic yacht that we might imagine. In fact, it is not a yacht at all but a groundbreaking research vessel. The Earth 300, with a length of 300 meters, is designed to accommodate 22 different laboratories where hundreds of researchers will work. The planning company behind it is Iddes Yachts from the Balearic Islands in Spain. Its owner, Ivan Salas Jefferson, says that “the purpose of the ship is to integrate science and research to address the many complex challenges that our planet presents to us.”
The Earth 300 is constructed with a central body and two geometric glass structures—one spherical at the rear and the other elliptical on the upper deck. The transparent spaces in these two areas will house the laboratories that require exposure to light, and the remaining laboratories will be located in the belly of the ship. The ship incorporates robotic systems and artificial intelligence complexes to accelerate research. It will also have systems and facilities inspired by luxury yachts, but it will certainly not be one, emphasizes Aarón Olivera, the project’s founder and CEO.
The ship’s engines will be entirely “green,” powered by biofuel derived from the synthesis of salts. The lower hull will house research submarines alongside laboratories relevant to subsea research. The ship’s crew will consist of 165 individuals. For each expedition, there are plans to have 180 scientists, twenty students, and forty guests on board. IBM is accompanying the project with research and technological development. According to estimates, the Earth 300 is expected to embark on its maiden voyage in 2025.
