Cadeler’s New Jack-Up Vessel, Wind Keeper, Secures Long-Term Contract with Vestas

Offshore wind installation specialist Cadeler has recently welcomed its newest jack-up vessel, Wind Keeper, into its fleet ahead of schedule. Simultaneously, the company has sealed a significant long-term contract with wind turbine manufacturer Vestas, solidifying its position in the offshore wind industry.

The Wind Keeper marks the eighth vessel in Cadeler’s growing fleet. It has secured a three-year firm contract with Vestas starting in early 2026, with a total value of approximately €210 million. The agreement also includes additional options that could potentially raise the total value to over €380 million if exercised.

Departing from China earlier this month, Wind Keeper is currently en route to Europe for customized upgrades before commencing operations. The vessel will be equipped with seafastening capabilities for three sets of Vestas V236-15.0 MW turbines, positioning it to support installations in the burgeoning 15 MW turbine segment.

“This initial contract for Wind Keeper perfectly aligns with our strategic decision to acquire her,” stated Mikkel Gleerup, CEO of Cadeler. “We anticipate a rising demand in Europe for versatile, high-performance vessels that can cater to both O&M and installation requirements, and Wind Keeper fits that criteria seamlessly.”

The versatile vessel will be involved in both operations and maintenance (O&M) as well as transport and installation (T&I) tasks across Vestas’ offshore wind projects. Its dual capabilities cater to the increasing market need for vessels that can handle multiple functions in the offshore wind sector.

Built in 2024, Wind Keeper was recently acquired from Shanghai Boqiang Heavy Industry Group Co. at a price reportedly below its estimated replacement cost. Despite being constructed in China, the vessel features predominantly European systems, including a Huisman main crane with a 2,200-tonne lifting capacity, Kongsberg’s DP2 dynamic positioning, MAN engines, and Siemens propulsion.

With its 120-meter jack-up legs enabling operations in deep and harsh offshore conditions, Wind Keeper is well-suited for the demanding global O&M market. The vessel joins Cadeler’s fleet at a time when the company has four additional vessels currently under construction, showcasing its commitment to growth and innovation in the offshore wind sector.