Hamburg, Munich, and Athens, 23rd January 2024 –Windward Offshore has exercised options, which were contained in the contract signed with Vard in October 2023, for the design and construction of two hybrid Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs). As part of the order, the number of units ordered from VARD rises to four.
This order marks another significant milestone for Windward Offshore in advancing its commitment to deliver comprehensive offshore wind solutions. This strategic move not only underscores Windward’s dedication to meeting the substantial global demand for offshore wind energy and associated infrastructure but also serves as a testament to the demonstrated expertise and successful track record of VARD in the construction of offshore wind vessels.
The founding partners driving Windward Offshore’s innovative venture are SeaRenergy Offshore, Blue Star Group, Diana Shipping Inc. and SeraVerse. Together, they are united by a shared vision of pioneering excellence in the offshore wind sector.
“Windward Offshore is pleased to announce the execution of the Options for two further VARD 4 19 CSOVs, expanding our initial two vessel order to four vessels, and continuing our trusted relationship with VARD. All of our Vessels are designed to be equipped with the latest eco-friendly technologies with the goal of minimizing environmental impact and offering the highest safety standards to ensure safe and sustainable offshore operations.”, says Benjamin Vordemfelde – Managing Director Windward Offshore.
“We believe CSOV vessels will play a crucial role in the energy transition and we are looking forward to offer our clients a comprehensive offshore wind service platform which combines a unique blend of the extensive maritime and offshore wind industry expertise by our partners”, says Christoph Geck-Schlich – Managing Director Windward Offshore.
With the four vessels on order, Windward Offshore is expanding its footprint in the industry. The first vessel is expected to be delivered in the second half of 2025, with the other three vessels joining the fleet in the course of 2026. With these modern vessels, Windward Offshore will support energy providers globally in constructing, commissioning, and maintaining offshore wind parks.
The initial announcement of the joint venture has already been well received by a variety of customers across different regions, demonstrating the strong market demand for Windward Offshore’s services. Additionally, also governments worldwide reaffirmed the need for offshore wind energy as an integral element of the energy transition at the world climate conference in 2023.
VARD 4 19 – well received in the market
The VARD 4 19 design is a highly all-round platform for sustainable offshore windfarm support operations, focusing on onboard logistics, security, comfort, and superior operability.
The 87.5-meter vessels have a beam of 19.5 meters and will be equipped with a height-adjustable motioncompensated gangway with elevator system, and a height-adjustable boat landing system. To achieve energy-efficient and smart operations at sea, with the goal of reducing fuel consumption, the vessels will be outfitted with a comprehensive SeaQ package from Vard Electro that includes systems and solutions for Power, Control, Bridge, and Communication. Vard Interiors is delivering HVAC-R and interior concepts.
The vessels are also prepared for operation on green methanol. The CSOVs will have accommodation for 120 persons on board.
Technical specifications:
• Length of 87.5 meters and beam of 19.5 meters
• Height-adjustable motion-compensated gangway with elevator system
• Height-adjustable boat landing system
• Battery hybrid system
• Prepared for future operation on green methanol
In October 2023, Windward signed a contract on two similar CSOVs. The contract had an option for two additional vessels which Windward has chosen to exercise with this new firm contract.
All four vessels are designed by Vard Design in Ålesund Norway. For two vessels, the hull will be built in one of VARD’s shipyards in Romania, while the final outfitting, commissioning and delivery will be carried out by one of VARD’s shipyards in Norway, the other two will be delivered from VARD’s shipyard in Vietnam.
For further information please contact:
Dr. Benjamin VordemfeldeManaging
Directorb.vordemfelde@searenergy.com
About Windward Offshore
Windward Offshore was formed to establish an Integrated Offshore Wind Service Company. With a shared vision, the partners aim to create a robust portfolio of offshore wind service vessels, initially focusing on Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs). By providing integrated solutions, combining vessels with Engineering, Maintenance, and Operation Services, Windward Offshore is poised to become a reliable partner for energy companies, supporting the commissioning phase and maintenance of offshore wind farms.
www.windward-offshore.com
About SeaRenergy & ASSC
SeaRenergy was established in 2010 and is the Offshore Wind Services Arm of the Rickmers family. The SeaRenergy service portfolio comprises Engineering, QHSE and Marine Services as well as Offshore Professionals, covering the whole life cycle of an offshore wind project from early planning through installation to operation, maintenance, and repair.
ASSC is rooted in the shipping heritage of the Rickmers family investing in various businesses. Creating new assets through innovation and entrepreneurial spirit as well as preserving and developing existing assets. ASSC manages a wide range of investments and holdings in the fields of shipping, offshore wind, real estate and other profitable sectors found in growing markets around the globe.
www.searenergy.com www.assc-ship.com
About Blue Star
Established in 2018, Blue Star Group is an investment management firm for institutional investors, offering project development, structuring and ongoing asset management in the shipping industry. Core to the investment strategy is to drive the fuel transition and shape the energy transition of global maritime transport as well as energy infrastructure.
With a focus in asset backed business models, Blue Star Group also invests in business ventures in diverse areas of the maritime economy, shipping, and logistics, in particular aiming to identify and support projects with a clear decarbonization objective and strategy.
www.bluestar-group.com
About Diana Shipping Inc.
Diana Shipping Inc. is a global provider of shipping transportation services through its ownership and bareboat charter-in of dry bulk vessels. The Company’s vessels are employed primarily on short to medium-term time charters and transport a range of dry bulk cargoes, including such commodities as iron ore, coal, grain and other materials along worldwide shipping routes.
www.dianashippinginc.com
About Serafin & SeraVerse
Serafin and SeraVerse, founded by Philipp Haindl, are invested in diversified portfolios across the industrial and non-industrial sectors respectively. SeraVerse, focusing on the non-industrial/venture segment, operates under the principle of “Empowering Ventures,” and is actively engaged in financial asset management, wealth management, TV & media, and private equity. By continuously evaluating new business partnerships and offering a robust service range, SeraVerse aims to foster long-term growth and innovation in future-proof industries.
www.seraverse.com
