Cadeler expands fleet with first A-class vessel delivery

Cadeler A/S has successfully taken delivery of its first A-class vessel, Wind Ally, ahead of schedule and within budget, marking a significant step in its fleet expansion. The vessel, the ninth in Cadeler's growing fleet, will immediately begin installing foundations at Ørsted's Hornsea 3 offshore wind farm. It will undertake the full transport and installation (T&I) scope for offshore monopile foundations for the first time. This positions Cadeler as a full-service provider in the foundations market, backed by a new department of specialists and vessels designed for XXL monopiles.

Constructed over two years at the Cosco shipyard in Qidong, China, Wind Ally boasts a strong safety record with over 3.5 million safe working hours. The A-class design offers 5,600 m² of deck space, a payload exceeding 18,000 tons, and a main crane capable of lifting over 3,300 tonnes, enabling it to transport and install up to six XXL monopile foundations per load. This hybrid design allows swift conversion between foundation and wind turbine generator installation, enhancing efficiency and flexibility.

Wind Ally is the first of three A-class newbuilds, with Wind Ace expected in late 2026 and Wind Apex in 2027, expanding Cadeler's fleet to 12 vessels by mid-2027. Hornsea 3, which will be the world's largest offshore wind farm delivering 2.9 GW, will see Cadeler play a pivotal role in delivering both foundation T&I and installing half of the associated wind turbines.