Sea-Watch 5
The Sea-Watch 5 is a former Norwegian supply vessel for wind power and oil platforms. The ship was built in 2010 and was subsequently in service under various names. In 2022, the ship was purchased by Sea-Watch and christened Sea-Watch 5 at a ceremony in Hamburg on 3 November 2022. United4Rescue supported the purchase of the third alliance ship with 200,000 euros.
The Sea-Watch 5 is 58 metres long. It is larger, faster and more efficient than the previous Sea-Watch ships. This means it can take even more people in distress on board and provide them with better care.
In 2023, the ship was converted into a rescue vessel in Flensburg: The infirmary was enlarged, an extra room was created for women and children and kitchen containers were added to cater for the rescued people. The aft deck was roofed over and the floor raised to protect the rescued people from the wind and weather as much as possible.
On its first mission in December 2023, the Sea-Watch 5 rescued 119 people from distress at sea.
FAQ Sea-Watch 5
What kind of ship is the Sea-Watch 5?
The Sea-Watch 5 is a former supply vessel for wind and oil platforms. It was built in 2010, is 58 metres long, and is faster and more efficient than the previous Sea-Watch ships. It is equipped with an infirmary and an extra room for women and children. There is also an extra kitchen on the aft deck to cater for the rescued.
Who owns the ship?
The Sea-Watch 5 belongs to the sea rescue organisation Sea-Watch e.V., which also operates the ship. United4Rescue supported the purchase of the ship with 200,000 euros.
How many rescued people can the ship hold?
The Sea-Watch 5 is 58 metres long. It is larger, faster and more efficient than the previous Sea-Watch ships. This means it can take even more people in distress on board and provide them with better care.
What does a rescue ship cost?
Purchase prices vary from ship to ship — depending on the type, equipment, condition and market situation. Our first alliance ship, the Sea-Watch 4, was purchased with a bid of 1.3 million euros. Our second alliance ship, the SEA-EYE 4, cost 250,000 euros, and our third alliance ship, the Sea-Watch 5, 4.5 million euros. But the purchase alone is not enough. Further substantial costs will be incurred for conversion and operation.
What is special about our alliance ships?
United4Rescue supported the purchase of the Sea-Watch 5 — and is also particularly committed to the ship. The many donors and alliance partners of United4Rescue stand behind the ship — especially when it is arrested or the crew is defamed and criminalised. Together, we create awareness for our alliance ships, support them with fundraising campaigns and thus give them a good tailwind.
