Launching in autumn 2022, Oceandiva will be an eco-friendly events ship that floats on London’s Thames river. Jenny Southan reports
As part of a joint venture with Smart Group, Oceandiva London will be the largest floating events space on the Thames, measuring 86 metres in length and spanning three decks capable of hosting large-scale parties on water.
The vessel will feature state-of-the-art architectural design with the latest marine technology featuring noise-reducing electric engines and superior soundproofing. Not only that but it will be carbon neutral.
Designed to appeal to both UK and international clients, the ship will be able to host everything from receptions and gala dinners, to cutting-edge product launches and brand activations. In total it will be able to accommodate up to 1,500 guests standing and or 600 seated.
Whether moored or sailing, the internal height of the ship allows for huge production values and the exterior space gives guests a unique opportunity to view the London skyline from the water. (Event guests will be able to embark and disembark Oceandiva London from London Bridge, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Greenwich and ExCel.)
Designed, built and owned by Oceandiva, founded by Edwin Petersen in 2003 in the Netherlands, the ship will be the first London venture outside of mainland Europe from the group who are well established in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium with clients including Porsche, L’Oréal, Microsoft, Dior and Jaguar.
Petersen says: “We have had great success in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany so we are incredibly excited to launch our first concept in London which we believe will be the hottest venue in the capital. London is undeniably one of the most attractive cities for overseas visitors and we are looking forward to hosting extraordinary celebrations on board.”
The trading company of Oceandiva London will be owned, managed and operated by the UK’s leading events and hospitality supplier, Smart Group, who deliver over 600 events each year from international sporting and cultural events, including Royal Ascot Village and Lord’s to corporate and charitable functions for the NSPCC, Google and Adobe.
The ship will be catered by London’s leading caterer, Moving Venue, Smart Group’s own catering brand, which has a 38-year history and counting, who are longstanding catering partners at over 50 unique venues including Historic Royal Palaces and the Natural History Museum.
Moving Venue will work in partnership with luxury catering company Last Supper, who were recently acquired by Smart Group, who boast an enviable portfolio of clients such as Gucci, Breitling, Sotheby’s and Mont Blanc, alongside a variety of private clientele.
Greg Lawson, CEO of Smart Group, says: “We are excited to bring a spectacular and stylish new events venue to London, one that raises the bar for luxury venues on the Thames in terms of its quality and sustainability credentials.
“Oceandiva London will provide an entirely unique alternative for discerning delegates and private party organisers. Our unique position as leaders in venue ownership, event management and catering services make Smart Group the ideal operators of Oceandiva London.”