The port of Władysławowo is emerging as a crucial player in Poland’s offshore wind industry, with both Szkuner company and Ocean Winds recognizing its potential. Ocean Winds, a global leader in offshore wind energy, has been in partnership with the port since 2022, and plans to establish a long-term operations and maintenance base for the BC Wind farm, set to be located just 23 kilometers from the coast near Krokowa.
A Port with Legacy and Future Promise
Built in 1937, Władysławowo is one of Poland’s northernmost ports and a key fishing hub in the Baltic region. However, as the fishing industry faces challenges such as declining fish populations, the port is evolving. According to Roman Kużel, Mayor of Władysławowo, the port’s maritime potential remains vast, despite needing modernization. “It certainly holds promise for the future,” Kużel remarked, emphasizing that the port can adapt to new functions, including servicing offshore wind operations.
Witold Wawrzonkoski, CEO of Szkuner, the company managing the port, underscores the port’s readiness for offshore activities.
“We offer an excellent location and optimal conditions for wind farm operations,” he said. “It’s very safe; it doesn’t silt up or freeze in winter, and it’s currently the best-prepared and most suitable port for offshore activities in Poland.”
Ocean Winds’ Vision for Władysławowo
Ocean Winds sees Władysławowo as an ideal location for supporting its operations at the BC Wind farm. The farm will be located 23 kilometers offshore, and the proximity of the port will help streamline operations, as well as ensure the safety and efficiency of the crews working on the turbines.
“Proximity and location in the offshore wind farm business is key. It’s about saving transfer time and ensuring crew safety,” explained Aleksandra Jampolska, a representative of Ocean Winds. “Władysławowo is not only conveniently located relative to the wind farm, but it’s also near other critical infrastructure, like the railroad line.”
Ocean Winds plans to start construction of the service base in 2025, with full operations set to begin in 2026. The company has committed to being in the region for 25 to 30 years, the expected operational lifespan of the BC Wind farm. Jampolska emphasized the company’s desire to maintain strong relationships with the local community, stating, “We are committed to a good neighborhood, and we want to help develop this region.”
The Port’s Wider Economic Impact
The port’s potential extends beyond servicing offshore wind farms. Jarosław Białk, the Puck County Governor, views the infrastructure of Szkuner as strategically vital, not just for Władysławowo but for the entire county. However, modernization is key to fully unlocking its potential.
“If we had 80 million zlotys today, we could upgrade the wharves and attract more companies involved in offshore wind operations,” Białk said, noting the port’s critical role in regional economic development.
While funding remains a challenge, the collaboration with Ocean Winds represents a significant step forward in transforming the port into a key offshore energy hub. With the wind energy sector continuing to grow, Władysławowo is positioning itself to become an integral part of Poland’s renewable energy future.
