Hvide Sande Shipyard announce the successful delivery of the crew transfer vessel (CTV) Transporter, following its comprehensive retrofit to run on e-methanol. This ambitious project highlights the possibilities of low-emission ship conversions and reinforces our dedication to driving innovation in sustainable shipping.
Originally built a decade ago, Transporter has been upcycled to meet the evolving demands of modern offshore wind operations. The extensive conversion involved the removal of its diesel drivelines, an extension of the hull by six meters, and an increase in capacity to accommodate 24 technicians. The vessel is now powered by four state-of-the-art e-methanol engines.
“It has been a true pleasure to collaborate once again with Hvide Sande Shipyard on such a pioneering project. Delivering four methanol engines tailored to fit the vessel’s dual driveline setup has been both a technical and rewarding challenge. This conversion proves that the maritime industry can take real, concrete steps toward decarbonization — not just through newbuilds, but by transforming the vessels already in operation,” says Jørk Rudolph, CSO at Nordhavn Power Solutions.
With this transformation, Transporter exemplifies the potential of sustainable propulsion, proving that existing vessels can be adapted to meet the ambitious carbon reduction goals of the maritime industry.
The transition from diesel to e-methanol presented significant technical and regulatory challenges, requiring close collaboration with key partners, classification societies, and regulatory authorities. Hvide Sande Shipyard worked closely with the customer to ensure the feasibility and safety of the conversion, leveraging our experience in vessel retrofits and alternative fuels.
The project required a structured and agile approach, with comprehensive planning that included HAZID (Hazard Identification) workshops and meticulous construction meetings. A new steering gear and rudders were installed to enhance maneuverability, while the methanol installation was carefully engineered to comply with strict safety and class requirements. The ventilation system was upgraded, additional sensors were integrated into the alarm system, and all relevant fittings were modernized to align with current industry standards.
Following the extensive modifications, Transporter successfully completed dock and sea trials, verifying that all systems performed to specification and met regulatory approval.
With the delivery of Transporter, our customer now operates a vessel that not only supports the growth of offshore wind energy but also actively contributes to reducing the industry’s carbon footprint. This successful conversion demonstrates that sustainable propulsion is not a distant goal but a reality that can be achieved today.
At Hvide Sande Shipyard, we remain dedicated to advancing sustainable maritime solutions. Whether through newbuilds or conversions, our mission is to provide shipowners with future-ready vessels that align with the industry’s transition to cleaner, more efficient operations.
