NYK Launches Crew Transfer Vessel Shipmanagement Joint Venture for Offshore Wind Projects

Japan’s Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) has announced the establishment of a crew transfer vessel shipmanagement joint venture, Japan Offshore Support (JOS), for domestic offshore wind projects. NYK will hold a majority 51% stake in the new company, which has been formed in partnership with local towing firm Akita Eisen Kisen Kaisha.

The collaboration between NYK and Akita Eisen Kisen Kaisha stems from a memorandum of understanding signed in 2021 for CTV operations primarily in the waters off Akita prefecture. This venture aligns with NYK’s ongoing efforts to promote renewable energy projects and develop skilled professionals in the field, in collaboration with Akita prefecture since 2022.

JOS will primarily focus on the maintenance and management of crew transfer vessels, along with providing training and employment opportunities for seafarers. Leveraging NYK’s experience in offshore shipping and wind power businesses, insights from partner and CTV operator Northern Offshore Service, and the expertise of Akita Eisen KK as a local company, the joint venture aims to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality services to support the stable supply of electricity from offshore wind power generation in Japan.

Anticipating a surge in demand for crew transfer vessels in Japan as offshore wind projects ramp up around 2026, NYK revealed plans last year to invest over $280 million in the sector by that time. This investment includes the construction of additional CTVs at shipyards in Japan to meet the growing needs of the offshore wind industry.