In its new phase under the Cadeler flag, the Wind Keeper has officially started its operations in the offshore wind sector, initiating its first project at the He Dreiht wind farm, located in the German North Sea. This phase marks the commercial debut of the Vestas V236-15.0 MW turbines, positioning the Wind Keeper as a key player in the installation of new generation offshore technology.
Complete transformation and ready for the challenge
Since its acquisition in 2025, the Wind Keeper was transferred to Europe, where it underwent a comprehensive technical and visual modernization process. Now equipped with a 2,200-ton main crane, it is optimized to cover both installation and operation and maintenance (O&M) phases of large-scale turbines.
In addition, the vessel was internally redesigned to offer better conditions for its crew, incorporating a larger gymnasium and wellness facilities in line with Cadeler fleet standards. This upgrade makes it the flagship of the dedicated service model promoted by Nexra, the new after-sales division created by Cadeler to strengthen its presence in the O&M segment.
He Dreiht project: innovation on a commercial scale
The Wind Keeper is now being integrated into the deployment of the He Dreiht wind farmwind farm, a 960 MW project that will be capable of supplying 1.1 million homes. In this operation, it will support Vestas and EnBW Generation UK in the installation of V236-15.0 MW turbines, one of the most powerful models ever developed and being installed commercially for the first time.
This deployment represents a significant step forward for the European wind power industryThe Wind Keeper not only provides load capacity and operational efficiency, but also flexibility, adapting to different phases of an offshore wind farm’s life cycle. The Wind Keeper not only provides load capacity and operational efficiency, but also flexibility, adapting to different phases of the life cycle of an offshore wind farm.
Cadeler strengthens its strategic commitment
The long-term contract with Vestas reaffirms Cadeler’s vision in the wind market, offering comprehensive support from installation to optimization and maintenance. The creation of Nexra, in parallel, responds to the sustained growth of the global market for after-sales services in offshore wind energy.
From its base of operations, Nexra focuses on extending the useful life of wind assets through upgrades, specialized technical support and scheduled maintenance. With the Wind Keeper at the helm, the company expands its operational capacity in complex projects, consolidating its position in Europe and other strategic markets.
Source and photo: Nexra via LinkedIn