Cadeler Welcomes Wind Maker: The Newest Addition to its Fleet

Danish offshore wind installation firm Cadeler has recently celebrated the delivery of its latest wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV), Wind Maker. This state-of-the-art vessel is the first of the two planned M-class vessels set to join Cadeler’s expanding fleet.

At a grand naming ceremony held at the Hanwha Ocean Shipyard in Korea, where the vessel was constructed, Wind Maker was officially christened. The event was attended by Cadeler executives and key stakeholders, paying tribute to the collaborative efforts that brought this impressive vessel to life. The Godmother of Wind Maker is Sharon Ainslie, the wife of Seajacks’ founder, Blair Ainslie, who merged with Cadeler.

Wind Maker will lead the way as the first M-class wind installation vessel in Cadeler’s fleet, with its sister vessel, Wind Mover, expected to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2025.

“Today signifies a significant milestone in our strategic fleet expansion and the successful realization of years of meticulous planning and innovative engineering. Wind Maker has already secured deployment post-delivery, with a promising lineup of wind farm projects ahead,” stated Mikkel Gleerup, CEO of Cadeler.

The vessel was initially ordered in 2021 by Eneti, later acquired by Cadeler in 2023, at a purchase price of $330 million. Wind Maker boasts a 2600-ton main crane, positioned to rotate around the SB aft leg, enabling the installation and maintenance of heavy foundations and offshore wind turbine components.

Designed to operate in water depths of up to 65 meters and withstand significant wave heights of 2 meters, Wind Maker will perform above sea level, ensuring efficient installation and maintenance of offshore structures. Equipped with DP2 capability, the self-propelled jack-up vessel will facilitate cost-efficient transit and positioning between locations, streamlining the process of wind farm installation and maintenance.

As Cadeler welcomes Wind Maker into its fleet, the company reinforces its commitment to innovation and excellence in the offshore wind industry. With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, these cutting-edge vessels will play a vital role in the development of renewable energy projects worldwide.