NYK has ordered a service operation vessel (SOV, “the vessel”) from the PaxOcean Group, a member of Kuok Maritime Group, to strengthen NYK’s offshore wind power-related business platform in the Asia-Pacific region. The vessel will support the construction, operation, and maintenance of offshore wind farms by serving as an offshore base for personnel accommodation and logistical support.

In Europe, NYK operates an SOV business through the group company Northern Offshore Group AB, providing services that support the stable operation and maintenance of offshore wind power facilities. This newbuild project leverages the expertise and experience accumulated in Europe to further develop NYK’s offshore wind business in the Asia-Pacific region, where continued market growth is anticipated.

The vessel is designed to accommodate a large workforce and support logistics needs associated with offshore wind farm construction projects. It features comfortable onboard living quarters for up to 120 persons and sufficient, versatile deck space. Equipped with a dynamic positioning system (DPS*) and incorporating the TWIN X-STERN® design** developed by Ulstein Design & Solutions AS (“Ulstein”), the vessel will offer advanced station-keeping capabilities while enhancing fuel efficiency. In addition, the vessel will be fitted with a motion-compensated gangway and a motion-compensated crane,*** enabling the safe transfer of personnel and cargo to offshore wind turbines.

Following its planned delivery around 2029, the vessel is expected to be deployed in offshore wind projects in Taiwan and across the Asia-Pacific region, under a partnership with IOVTEC Co., Ltd. (“IOVTEC”) and Hsin Chien Marine Co., Ltd. (“HCM”).

IOVTEC is a Taiwan-based offshore wind company in which NYK acquired an equity stake in March 2025. Through several group companies, IOVTEC provides a comprehensive range of services for offshore wind projects, including marine surveys, temporary power supply, and the operation and maintenance services covering topside and subsea components, including cables and offshore substations.

HCM is a shipowner and ship management company specializing in the ownership and operation of bulk carriers and has maintained a long-standing business relationship with the NYK Group. Through its commitment to safe vessel operations, HCM has contributed to the development of the international shipping industry.

By combining their expertise, networks, and resources, NYK, IOVTEC, and HCM aim to ensure the vessel’s safe and reliable operation while contributing to the continued development of the offshore wind industry.

The order of the newbuild SOV represents another step in expanding NYK’s business domain from “Ocean for shipping” to “Ocean as a workplace” through contributions across the offshore wind value chain. Going forward, NYK will continue to seize business opportunities that address societal needs and pursue new value creation through collaboration with stakeholders both inside and outside the company, contributing to its ongoing evolution beyond a comprehensive logistics enterprise and supporting sustainable growth.

Vessel Particulars (tentative)

* Dynamic Positioning System (DPS)
A system that automatically calculates external forces such as wind and currents and uses thrusters and other propulsion devices to maintain a vessel's position at sea.

** TWIN X-STERN® design
Ulstein's proprietary hull design featuring symmetrical bow and stern shapes. The design enhances maneuverability and station-keeping performance while helping reduce vessel motions, noise, and energy consumption.

*** Motion-compensated gangway and crane
A gangway and a crane, each automatically compensating for movements and positional deviations caused by vessel motions, enabling the safe transfer of personnel and cargo to and from offshore installations.