Japanese shipping company NYK has ordered a new offshore wind service vessel from PaxOcean Group. The vessel is expected to begin operating in Taiwan and other Asia-Pacific markets around 2029.
The new vessel will be classified as an SOV — Service Operation Vessel. These vessels provide accommodation, logistics and offshore access for technicians involved in the construction and maintenance of offshore wind farms.
The vessel will measure 89.6 metres in length and 19.2 metres in width, with a design draught of approximately five metres. It will provide accommodation for up to 120 people.
NYK expects the new SOV to help meet growing regional demand for specialised offshore vessels as wind farm projects move from development into the construction and operational phases.
The vessel will operate in partnership with Taiwanese offshore wind specialist IOVTEC and shipowner and management company Hsin Chien Marine. NYK acquired a stake in IOVTEC in 2025 as part of its expansion into Taiwan’s offshore wind market.
For safe offshore operations, the vessel will be equipped with a dynamic positioning system, a motion-compensated gangway and a motion-compensated crane. This equipment will allow technicians and cargo to be transferred safely between the vessel and offshore installations in challenging sea conditions.
The design will incorporate Ulstein’s Twin X-Stern hull concept, featuring propulsion systems at both ends of the vessel. The configuration is intended to improve manoeuvrability, station-keeping and operational efficiency during personnel transfer operations.
The order expands NYK’s offshore wind support business beyond Europe. Its subsidiary, Northern Offshore Group, already operates vessels that transport technicians and crews to offshore wind installations.
In 2025, the company also acquired the 81-metre Northern Ocean SOV, which can accommodate up to 60 people. The planned capacity of the new Asia-Pacific vessel will be twice as large.
