The Nordwind”: From renovation to a sailing experience in the Marine Museum!

The Nordwind”: From renovation to a sailing experience in the Marine Museum!

The return of the “Nordwind”: A piece of maritime history shines anew

The time has finally come: the restoration of the sailing training ship “Nordwind” has been successfully completed! After almost two years of intensive work, which took place from September 2021 to July 2023 at the HvideSande Shipyard in Denmark, the traditional ship celebrated its return to Wilhelmshaven on April 29, 2023, just in time for the 25th anniversary of the German Naval Museum. This spectacular return was highlighted in a lecture at the Naval Museum, in which the extensive restoration work was presented.

The “Nordwind” has an exciting history. From 1951 to 2006 the ship served the maritime border guard, the Federal Navy and the German Navy. After it was decommissioned in 2006, the Naval Museum took over the ship in November 2008. Since then, the “Nordwind” has not only been an important exhibit in the museum, but also an active passenger ship that undertakes day and multi-day trips on the North and Baltic Seas. However, the ship sustained some injuries during the operation, which have now been repaired by volunteer crew members.

Repairs and improvements

The restoration work was extensive and included repairs to the ship's hull, deck, machinery and other systems. Particularly noteworthy is the installation of a bow thruster, which significantly improves the maneuverability of the “Nordwind”. The bridge was also enlarged and refitted. This comprehensive approach was coordinated by the Detlev Löll engineering firm, which drew up the plans and managed the work. Compliance with the originally set budget of 1,571,000 euros was a central goal during the project period, but was increased to 1,926,000 euros due to the pandemic.

The “Nordwind” was checked, re-ballasted and equipped in accordance with the regulations of the Transport and Traffic Association as well as the current SOLAS rules in order to make her fit for future trips.

Insights into the restoration

The lecture, which will take place on October 9, 2025 in the German Naval Museum, is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the detailed work of the restoration. This is free and appeals to anyone interested in taking a look behind the scenes of the project. Detlef Löll will explain the challenges and highlights of the restoration and provide insights into the collaboration between the Marine Museum and the volunteer crew.

The German Naval Museum in Wilhelmshaven is not only known for its impressive collection of maritime objects, but also attracts around 100,000 visitors every year. The permanent exhibition under the motto “People, Times, Ships” illuminates the development of German naval history. In addition to the “Nordwind”, the museum houses numerous other treasures, such as the walk-in Class 205 submarine or the historic F-104 “Starfighter” fighter-bomber.

Conclusion

The successful restoration of the “Nordwind” not only preserves an important piece of maritime history, but also strengthens the close connection between the city of Wilhelmshaven and its maritime tradition. The “Nordwind”, now seaworthy again, will continue to serve as a living testimony to German naval history and introduce future generations to the exciting world of seafaring.

For more information about the restoration and the Naval Museum click NWZ Online, Naval Museum and Wikipedia.