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Author: Anja Thulstrup Nielsen

NB 157 – ESVAGT WIND 52

In May 2025, Hvide Sande Shipyard delivered the third boat in the STB15 series, the ESVAGT WIND 52. Built of aluminum, the 17,2-meter-long boat is powered by two Volta Penta D8 IPS 600 engines, enabling speeds of up to 25 knots and a certified range of 200 nautical miles.

The ESVAGT WIND 52 is one of three STB15 boats designed to bolster ESVAGT’s offshore wind service operations. Designed to meet ESVAGT’s high standards for safety, flexibility, and operational efficiency, these boats reliably transport personnel and cargo in challenging offshore conditions.

Specifications

Vessel typeCrew transfer Vessel
Vessel nameESVAGT WIND 52
DeliveryFirst quarter 2025
DescriptionThe STB (Safe transfer boat) will be launched from a larger mothership
Hull materialAluminum
Tonnage36 GT
Length over all17,2 m.
Breadth beam4,90 m.
Depth1 m.
Accomodation2 Crew / 15 Technicians
Main engines2 pcs. VOLTA PENTA IPS D8 331kW @ 2700 rpm
Aux. Engine1 pcs Panda 19i PMS
Speed (knots)25 knots
PropulsionVolta D8 IPS 600
ClassificationBureau Veritas
Other equipmentHenriksen Hook lifting arrangement, Humphree Stabilizers.
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Engineered for resilience and reliability

ESVAGT identified the need for a resilient and versatile daughter craft capable of safely and efficiently transferring personnel in varying sea conditions. The STB15 boats are designed specifically to serve offshore wind farms, either operating from a mothership or directly from port, ensuring uninterrupted service in all operational scenarios.

A key aspect of the project was delivering three Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs) that are built with proven reliability and adaptability to meet a wide range of offshore requirements. Hvide Sande Shipyard’s extensive experience in precision aluminum shipbuilding made us a natural partner for the task.

High demands with technical precision

The ESVAGT WIND 52 is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of offshore wind support operations. Designed for daily operations, the boat can launch from a mothership or directly from the port, making it a resilient and adaptable addition to ESVAGT’s fleet. One of three STB15 boats built at Hvide Sande Shipyard, the ESVAGT WIND 52 measures 17,2 meters in length and has a durable aluminum hull designed for offshore performance.

Each boat in the series is powered by two Volta Penta D8 IPS 600 engines capable of reaching speeds up to 25 knots and certified for a range of 200 nautical miles. With the capacity to transport up to fifteen technicians and two ton of cargo, the ESVAGT WIND 52 provides a reliable, high-performance service where it matters most.

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Esvagt-Wind-52-730x600

A strong collaboration

“When we started the STB12 project in 2014, 3D drawing technology was still developing, so we built a full-scale mockup. For vessels 5–8, we chose Hvide Sande Shipyard to support the Danish industry. CEO at Seasight Group Carl Erik Kristensen visited us early on and quickly confirmed their ability to deliver at the right price. The cooperation has been excellent. Our goal was to be equal partners before and after delivery, and we achieved that. Hvide Sande Shipyard delivers high-quality work with strong documentation and process control. Challenges were solved constructively, and agreements were upheld, even without much discussion”

Søren Westphal, Senior Project Manager at ESVAGT

About the ESVAGT WIND project

ESVAGT is a leader in safety and service at sea, especially in the offshore wind sector. Built in close collaboration with ESVAGT, the STB15 series meets the demands of modern offshore operations, where safety, speed, and dependability are essential.

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NB 156 – ESVAGT WIND 51

In March 2025, ESVAGT WIND 51, the second in a series of three STB15 (Safe Transfer Boats), departed from the port of Hvide Sande. Measuring 17,2 meters in length and constructed on a robust aluminium hull, the vessel is equipped with two Volta Penta D8 IPS 600 engines, delivering a top speed of 25 knots and a range of 200 nautical miles.

Specifications

Vessel typeCrew transfer Vessel
Vessel nameESVAGT WIND 51
DeliveryFirst quarter 2025
DescriptionThe STB (Safe transfer boat) will be launched from a lager mother ship
Hull materialAluminium
Tonnage36 GT
Length over all17,2 m.
Breadth beam4,90 m.
Depth1 m.
Accomodation2 Crew / 15 Technicians
Main engines2 pcs. VOLTA PENTA IPS D8 331kW @ 2700 rpm
Aux. Engine1 pcs Panda 19i PMS
Speed (knots)25 knots
PropulsionVolta D8 IPS 600
ClassificationBureau Veritas
Other equipmentHenriksen Hook lifting arrangement, Humphree Stabilizers.
esvagt wind 51-730x600-02

Built for demanding offshore operations

The North Sea’s harsh and unpredictable conditions place exceptional demands on safety, reliability, and operational flexibility. ESVAGT required a compact, high-performance boat capable of ensuring secure and efficient transfer of personnel and equipment.

In close collaboration with ESVAGT, Hvide Sande Shipyard developed three advanced Crew Transfer Vessels, ESVAGT WIND 50, 51, and 52. Each boat is engineered to function as a daughter craft within offshore wind farms, where durability and performance are non-negotiable.

Flexibility and performance

ESVAGT WIND 51 features a purpose-built hull design optimized for daily operation in challenging marine environments. Certified to transport up to fifteen technicians and two tons of cargo, the boat is fully equipped to support both routine assignments and emergency response tasks.

This project marked the second build of this boat type. From initial design to final delivery, we worked closely with ESVAGT to refine and optimise key elements, prioritising ease of use, serviceability, and long-term operational efficiency. The STB15 boats are built not only for performance but also for long lifetime.

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A top-class product

“When ESVAGT approached us with the STB15 project, we saw it as an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of a new type of boats with high complexity and high-quality requirements. It has been a strong partnership characterized by trust and a shared ambition to deliver a top-class product. We are proud to have contributed to a project where both relationships and results have gone hand in hand”

Jeppe Hoff, COO at Hvide Sande Shipyard

About the STB15 project

ESVAGT is a leading provider of safety and service solutions at sea, with a particular focus on the offshore wind sector. Together with ESVAGT, we identified and refined solutions to support the STB15 series through the production phase.

It consists of three identical Safe Transfer Boats designed for complex transfer tasks. These boats, including the ESVAGT WIND 50 and ESVAGT WIND 52, are designed to increase both safety and efficiency in ESVAGT’s maritime service operations.

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NB 155 – ESVAGT WIND 50

In February 2025, Hvide Sande Shipyard proudly delivered the first of three STB15 boats: the ESVAGT WIND 50. This delivery marked a key milestone in our continued collaboration with ESVAGT. The 17,2-meter boat is constructed of durable marine grade aluminum. This Safe Transfer Boat is powered by two Volta Penta D8 IPS 600 engines and can reach speeds of up to 25 knots. It is certified for an operational range of 200 nautical miles.

ESVAGT initiated this project when they required a new class of crew transfer vessels (CTVs) to function as daughter craft in offshore wind operations. ESVAGT searched for a partner with proven shipbuilding capabilities and the initiative to contribute to the design and optimization process. Hvide Sande Shipyard was selected because of our extensive experience in building advanced support vessels for the offshore sector and our dedication to providing customized, high-quality solutions.

Specifications

Vessel typeCrew transfer Vessel
Vessel nameESVAGT WIND 50
DeliveryFirst quarter 2025
DescriptionThe STB (Safe Transfer Boat) will be launched from a larger mothership
Hull materialAluminum
Tonnage36 GT
Length over all17,2 m.
Breadth beam4,90 m.
Depth1 m.
Accomodation2 Crew / 15 Technicians
Main engines2 pcs. VOLTA PENTA IPS D8 331kW @ 2700 rpm
Aux. Engine1 pcs Panda 19i PMS
Speed (knots)25 knots
PropulsionVolta D8 IPS 600
ClassificationBureau Veritas
Other equipmentHenriksen Hook lifting arrangement, Humphree Stabilizers.
esvagt50-730x600-04

A reliable solution

Operating in the harsh and unpredictable conditions of the North Sea demands uncompromising safety, performance, and operational flexibility. The ESVAGT WIND 50 was developed to meet these challenges and is capable of operating from either a mothership or directly from port.

From concept to delivery, our team collaborated closely with ESVAGT to refine the boats layout, structural integrity, and functional features. As the first of its kind, the ESVAGT WIND 50 exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to transferring crew and equipment under demanding offshore conditions.

“Our collaboration with Hvide Sande Shipyard has been characterized by innovation and focus on quality. Together, we have created a boat that makes an even stronger contribution to renewable energy production”

Søren Westphal, Senior Project Manager at ESVAGT

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Built for offshore efficiency

Designed to meet rigorous maritime safety standards, the ESVAGT WIND 50 ensures safe and efficient transfer of technicians and equipment. Its reinforced hull and optimized layout support daily operations in rough seas. The boat can carry up to fifteen technicians and two tons of cargo, making it ideal for a variety of offshore service missions.

With the delivery of the ESVAGT WIND 50, followed by its sister boats, the ESVAGT WIND 51 and ESVAGT WIND 52, ESVAGT has enhanced its capabilities for safe and agile operations within the offshore wind segment.

About the STB15 Project

ESVAGT has long been a major player in maritime security and offshore wind services, known for its innovative approach and operational expertise.

Their latest project, the STB15 boats, is a further development of their previous STB12 models, of which we have delivered three previously. The NB 155 is the sixth Crew Transfer Vessel (CTV) we have built for ESVAGT.

Esvagt Wind 50

Carmelan returns to the sea: A historic wooden ship restored

Hvide Sande Shipyard proudly announces the successful restoration of Carmelan, a nearly century-old wooden vessel, which has been meticulously revitalized after more than a year of dedicated craftsmanship. This project represents a rare full-scale wooden ship restoration, blending traditional shipbuilding techniques with modern maritime standards.

Preserving heritage while integrating modern functionality

Originally built as a fishing vessel in 1927 at the Hjørne & Jacobsen shipyard in Frederikshavn, Carmelan carries a rich maritime legacy. Restoring such a historic vessel required an expert understanding of classic shipbuilding methods while ensuring compliance with modern safety and operational requirements. The result is a ship that maintains its original character while meeting contemporary performance expectations.

“The knowledge of old traditional shipbuilding and the exceptional craftsmanship of the employees at Hvide Sande Shipyard have enabled the Carmelan to remain the Carmelan of 1927 and that history and the latest technology have found harmony during the restoration,” – Hans-Julius Ahlmann, sponsor of the Carmelan and Managing Partner of the Schleswig-Holstein-based ACO Group

With its next chapter set to include occasional transatlantic voyages, Carmelan’s restoration was a careful balance of preserving its heritage while integrating enhanced features. The beautifully finished interiors and intricately milled ornamental detailing in the hatch chambers now reflect both its storied past and its modernized functionality.

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A full-scale restoration of the old wooden vessel

The non-profit charity owning the Carmelan today, envisioned a vessel that would preserve its historical significance. However, the ship’s initial condition necessitated a major overhaul, making this one of the most ambitious wooden ship restorations undertaken at Hvide Sande Shipyard.

A key challenge was sourcing high-quality timber, a process requiring extensive research to ensure both durability and authenticity. The successful acquisition of these materials was instrumental in maintaining Carmelan’s structural integrity.

In addition to the structural restoration, Carmelan received a new main engine and shaft arrangement, including a gear with PTO that drives a generator – allowing the vessel to charge its battery bank while powered by wind. Following a full rigging update, Carmelan underwent successful sea trials, confirming that all modernized systems functioned seamlessly.

About Carmelan

First launched as Kristian, Carmelan began its life in the Danish fishing industry before being sold to a German owner in 1978. Over the decades, it has served multiple roles, including youth sailing, chartering, and extended voyages. Today, Carmelan is owned by a non-profit organization.

Over its long history, the Carmelan has gathered many supporters who are committed to preserving the ship and promoting traditional shipping in the Baltic Sea, including Hans-Julius and Iver Ahlmann, managing partners of the ACO Group, a leading watertech company based in Schleswig-Holstein.

The restoration of the wooden vessel, Carmelan, is a testament to Hvide Sande Shipyard’s dedication to preserving maritime heritage while ensuring vessels remain seaworthy, sustainable, and suited for modern demands. We take pride in delivering a ship that seamlessly bridges the past and the future, ready to sail for many years to come.

Gallery: Before restoration

Gallery: After restoration

Hvide Sande Shipyard: Ready to build future naval ships for Denmark

40 minutes. That’s how long Seasight Group and the affiliates Hvide Sande Shipyard and Seasight Solutions had to present their combined competencies and portfolio of products for the Danish Navy to Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen during his visit to Ringkøbing today.

Despite the limited time, a clear direction was set: Hvide Sande Shipyard and its partners OSK Group and Karstensens Skibsværft are ready to deliver the next generation of environmental ships to the Danish Navy – already from the end of 2027, if a contract can be signed soon.

Solid experience with the Danish Armed Forces

Seasight Group, which Hvide Sande Shipyard is a part, has worked with the Danish Armed Forces since the early 1990s. With more than 30 years of cooperation and experience, both the Danish Defense Materiel and Procurement Agency (FMI) and the Danish Armed Forces know the value of the solutions delivered from Hvide Sande.

“Our strength is the more than 30 years of experience we have in working with the Armed Forces. FMI knows what we stand for – both at Seasight Solutions and Hvide Sande Shipyard – credibility and customized solutions in high quality,” emphasizes Jeppe Hoff, COO at Hvide Sande Shipyard.

This history was highlighted to the Minister as an essential foundation for taking part in the upcoming investments in the modernization of the fleet.

A commitment to contribute to Denmark’s security

Seasight Solutions – another subsidiary of Seasight Group – is already experiencing a significant increase in demand from the defense industry. They see it as a natural task to provide capacity and expertise to the Armed Forces at a time when European security is under pressure.

“It’s a sad background, but we have an obligation as a Danish supplier to make ourselves available when help is needed,” says Thomas Halkjær Kristensen, CEO of Seasight Solutions.

With products such as specialized platforms, access roads and stairs, Seasight Solutions has served the Danish Army, Navy and Air Force for years – and the ambitions are clear: Danish suppliers can and should play an even bigger role in the future of defense.

Speed and quality

During his visit, the Minister of Defense emphasized that future deliveries must be made at high speed without compromising on quality – a requirement that Hvide Sande Shipyard and Seasight Solutions are fully prepared to meet.

“We currently have a record order book across the companies in the Seasight Group. Despite this, we have clear and realistic ambitions to attend in the construction of ships for the Danish fleet, where we together with OSK and Karstensens Skibsværft in Skagen will be able to deliver the first environmental ship by the end of 2027,” says Carl Erik Kristensen, CEO of Seasight Group.

Behind the ambition is not only the many years of experience as a supplier to the Danish Armed Forces, but also a targeted focus on strengthening Denmark’s maritime defense capacity with fast deliveries and high quality. Hvide Sande Shipyard and Seasight Solutions also look positive at the possibility of becoming a subcontractor for the construction of the Armed Forces’ new Arctic patrol ships and frigates as well as new Home Guard vessels when the requirements for these become known.