“K” Line Wind Service, Ltd. (KWS), a joint venture between Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. and Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen Kaisha, Ltd., has announced a capital alliance agreement with SN Marine Co., Ltd. (SN Marine) through a third-party allotment of shares involving SN Marine’s shareholders, including Sugahara Kisen Co., Ltd.
SN Marine is a leading operator in Japan’s offshore wind sector, with significant experience in offshore support vessel operations. The company owns and operates the offshore support vessel KAIKO and manages the geological survey vessel EK HAYATE, a key initiative in Japan’s offshore energy industry. Both vessels have been operated under a coordinated framework between SN Marine and KWS, demonstrating their strong collaborative history.
Beyond vessel operations, SN Marine has also been proactive in training Japanese crew members with dynamic positioning system (DPS) qualifications, which are vital for offshore wind support operations. The company has further strengthened its position by securing international certifications such as e-CMID and OVID, which are global benchmarks for vessel safety and reliability in offshore projects.
The new capital alliance builds on this cooperation, with the shared aim of enhancing internationally standardized offshore support services that are increasingly in demand. Japan’s government has set ambitious offshore wind targets of 10 GW by 2030 and 30–45 GW by 2040, including floating wind power projects. Meeting these targets will require a significant increase in offshore support vessels, experienced crews, and reliable operational frameworks.
By combining SN Marine’s proven track record in offshore vessel operations with the “K” LINE Group’s expertise in internationally recognized safety management and its extensive global network in the offshore wind industry, the alliance is expected to play a key role in developing the infrastructure needed for Japan’s offshore wind power future.
