Cadeler is moving forward with a significant expansion of its offshore wind installation fleet by placing firm orders for two new T-class vessels. These vessels are designed to manage the increasingly large turbines and complex projects expected to launch in the next decade.
On Monday, the Copenhagen-based company announced that it signed contracts with COSCO Shipping Offshore in Qidong, China, for the two vessels, which are set to be delivered in 2030 and 2031.
The total value of the contracts is around EUR 805 million ($938 million).
Cadeler describes the T-class vessels as the biggest and most capable offshore wind installation ships it has ever developed. These ships are being tailored for the next generation of offshore wind projects, where larger turbines, heavier components, and complex installation needs are putting pressure on existing vessels.
While the company did not provide detailed technical specifications for the new vessels in its announcement, it mentioned that the design incorporates innovative technologies aimed at enhancing efficiency, versatility, and performance beyond current industry standards.
“As offshore wind projects grow larger and more complex, developers need installation partners who have the experience, specialized capabilities, and modern fleets to execute them safely and reliably,” said Cadeler CEO Mikkel Gleerup.
“Our investment in the T-class shows our commitment to staying ahead of future customer needs, providing top-notch technical solutions, and setting high standards for offshore wind installation,” he added.
Earlier this year, Cadeler secured funding for this investment and is already in talks with customers about using the two new vessels.
These new orders strengthen Cadeler's relationship with COSCO Shipping Offshore, which has built several vessels under the company's broader newbuild program.
“We are happy to continue our partnership with COSCO Shipping Offshore shipyard, with whom we have developed a solid and trusted relationship over the years,” Gleerup said. “Their understanding of our needs and commitment to quality make them a valued partner as we continue to grow our fleet.”
Rapid Fleet Expansion
The new T-class orders are part of a fleet expansion that has already made Cadeler one of the largest specialized installation vessel operators in the offshore wind industry.
In 2025, the company received Wind Mover, the second vessel in its M-class series and the tenth vessel in its growing fleet. This vessel was delivered ahead of schedule from Hanwha Ocean in South Korea, joining its sister ship Wind Maker, which was delivered earlier that year.
The arrival of Wind Mover marked a 12-month period during which Cadeler doubled its fleet from five to ten vessels. The company expects to have a total of 12 vessels in operation by mid-2027, before the two new T-class vessels arrive in the early 2030s.
Wind Mover is equipped with a 2,600-tonne main crane and DP2 dynamic positioning and can operate in water depths of up to 65 meters. The vessel is set to begin work in Europe under operations and maintenance contracts worth up to EUR 75 million.
Cadeler's fleet growth coincides with a shift towards larger turbines and more demanding projects in the offshore wind sector, driving the need for vessels able to transport and install heavier foundations and turbine components.
With these new T-class orders, Cadeler is preparing for the future, anticipating that the next generation of offshore wind projects will need installation ships that are much larger and more capable than most of those currently in use.