Oslo-listed Cadeler has sealed a new order for a wind turbine foundation installation vessel in China.
The BW Group-backed operator will pay $345m for the flexible F-Class vessel at Cosco Heavy Industries (CHI).
The contract includes an option for another F-Class unit, or a third X-Class vessel.
CHI is already building two X-Class ships for Cadeler for delivery in 2024 and 2025 at a cost of $651m.
“The new vessel will enable Cadeler to target the growing segment of foundation installations and enhances the company’s capability to offer a complete set of services within transport and installation of offshore wind farms,” the shipowner said.
The F-Class has similar specifications to the previous design, while drawing on scale benefits and providing substantial operational advantages.
“The F-class features a unique design, allowing the vessel to convert from being a foundation installation unit to a wind turbine generator (WTG) installation vessel within a short period of time,” Cadeler said.
The newbuilding will be able to transport up to six extra large monopiles weighing between 2,300 and 2,600 tonnes each.
Alternatively it could transport and install five sets of 20MW-plus turbines per round-trip.
The firm F-Class will be ready in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Installation deal being lined up
Cadeler is already in talks for a maiden contract concerning a foundation installation deal in the North Sea.
This is currently expected to start in the second quarter of 2026.
“Upon completion of the new X- and F-Class vessels, Cadeler will operate the largest and most capable fleet in the industry in terms of loading capacity and ability to transport, service and install the largest offshore foundations and wind turbines,” the company added.
Last week, Cadeler raised NOK 486m ($90m) from a private placement and said the funds will go towards further newbuildings.
