In a striking display of precision logistics, the MV Paula, operated by SAL Heavy Lift, has successfully transported nine wind turbine blades from Portsmouth, UK, to Hibikinada, Japan, on behalf of global wind energy leader Vestas.
The long-haul shipment underscores the complexity and coordination involved in moving oversized cargo across continents — especially components as large, fragile, and essential as wind turbine blades.
Captured in full motion at sea, the MV Paula was on a tightly managed schedule, navigating international waters with cargo stretching up to 80 meters in length per blade. The operation required meticulous planning, careful route selection, and close collaboration between the vessel crew and shore-based logistics teams.
This particular voyage marks another milestone in SAL Heavy Lift‘s ongoing involvement in the global renewable energy supply chain. The company specializes in handling heavy and out-of-gauge cargo, a critical requirement when dealing with wind components that can exceed hundreds of tons in total shipment weight.
Portsmouth’s selection as the loading port highlights the UK’s growing role as a strategic hub for wind energy logistics. Meanwhile, Hibikinada, located in the Kitakyushu region of Japan, continues to expand its capacity to support offshore wind infrastructure projects as the country shifts further into renewable energy development.
This shipment is part of Vestas’ broader push to support wind energy projects across Asia-Pacific, where demand for clean energy solutions continues to rise. As wind farms expand in scale and scope, the ability to move blades, towers, and nacelles efficiently and safely becomes an increasingly vital link in the supply chain.
For SAL Heavy Lift, such complex international transport projects are routine, yet never simple. Every shipment presents unique technical and operational challenges — from port handling capabilities and weather windows to blade stack configuration and lashing systems.
A key component in the success of this project was coordination between global teams. Special recognition was given to Hiroshi KATSU and Rasmus Holm Madsen, whose involvement ensured smooth execution from loading in Portsmouth to discharge in Hibikinada.
