The Windcat Rotterdam has won the Ship of the Year Award 2026 at the Maritime Awards Gala, held at Studio 21 (ORYN) in Hilversum on 2 November. This carefully designed and constructed commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV) demonstrates the strength of Dutch maritime innovation and systems integration.
Developed by Damen Shipyards in collaboration with Windcat, the vessel combines proven technologies to create a highly effective offshore support platform for the offshore wind and energy sectors.
The jury particularly praised the innovative hull design, which was extensively optimised through hydrodynamic research and model testing at MARIN. Combined with a DP2 system featuring four fully azimuthing thrusters, an anti-roll tank and advanced motion-compensated transfer systems, the Windcat Rotterdam offers excellent manoeuvrability, stability and station-keeping performance.
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Ready for a sustainable future
Economic efficiency has been achieved through the integration of electric propulsion, a battery-supported closed-bus power system and optimised energy management. These features reduce fuel consumption, improve generator efficiency and lower operating costs over the vessel’s lifetime without compromising its seakeeping performance.
The Windcat Rotterdam also demonstrates a clear commitment to sustainability. Its hybrid-electric architecture reduces emissions today, while preparations for future fuels such as hydrogen, methanol and ethanol provide flexibility for further decarbonisation.
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Strength through systems integration
The safety and well-being of the crew and offshore personnel are integral to the design. Multiple transfer options, advanced motion-compensated systems, well-planned onboard logistics routes and high-quality accommodation contribute to safe and comfortable offshore operations.
The Windcat Rotterdam stands out not because of a single innovation, but because of the successful integration of existing technologies into a coherent, efficient and future-proof vessel. The jury therefore considers the Windcat Rotterdam an outstanding example of innovation through systems integration and practical application in the offshore energy sector.
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Other nominees
In total, there were three nominees for this year’s Ship of the Year Award. They were: gas carrier Carbon Destroyer I built by Royal Niestern Sander, cutter dredger Rotterdam 26 by DE Klop BV.
Each year, five awards are presented at the Maritime Awards Gala. The other awards are the Maritime Innovation Award, the Maritime Talent Award, the Maritime Security Award and the Maritime Achievement Award.
Picture: CSOV Windcat Rotterdam was praised for among other things its innovative hull design (photo Damen).
