Oceandiva has announced it has received Green Award’s prestigious Gold Certificate with a Platinum Label for its new vessel ‘Oceandiva London’, as it prepares to launch the new floating venue in the capital.

The state-of-the-art new events vessel, which was constructed in a shipyard in the Netherlands, has just arrived in London this week and is now berthed in the Royal Docks where it will complete a £1.8m fit-out, programme of testing, and regulatory approvals. The vessel will be in full service from June 2023.

Oceandiva London will be the first carbon-neutral powered vessel on the river Thames – capable of 100% sustainable operation through its propulsion system and energy strategy, it utilises fast charging shore-based renewable energy, and a back-up biofuel generator.

Under construction since 2021 at a cost of £25m, Oceandiva London boasts impressive dimensions spanning three decks and measuring 86m in length and 17m in breadth.

With flexible event spaces, the vessel is capable of hosting conferences, exhibitions, receptions, gala dinners, award ceremonies, product launches, and brand activations for up to 1,000 guests. It includes extensive technical infrastructure for highly creative AV and IT production onboard, including a 12 x 3.5m LED wall and enterprise-grade Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.

As part of its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, Smart Group will also be launching a new corporate social responsibility program and community engagement initiative related to the vessel.

Catering on the vessel will be supplied by one of London’s leading caterers, Moving Venue, Smart Group’s own catering brand, which has a 39-year history and is the longstanding catering partner at over 50 prestigious London venues including Historic Royal Palaces and the Natural History Museum.

Oceandiva London is the world’s very first carbon-neutral floating event venue to achieve the Platinum Label – the highest level of recognition awarded by Green Award for shipping companies committed to environmental protection, safety, and quality.

Greg Lawson, CEO of Smart Group commented: “We are committed to creating a positive impact on the environment and our community, and this project exemplifies our values and dedication to sustainability. The delivery of this exceptional venue is a true team effort and a critical milestone towards its opening later this year.”