We build upon a legacy
Ulstein has transformed remarkably from a humble mechanical workshop to a trailblazer in vessel design, shipbuilding, and maritime solutions. We take pride in our rich legacy that spans over a century, showcasing our journey of innovation and growth.
From the beginning
Norway has been a seafaring nation since the Viking Age. Our Norwegian origins testify to a long tradition of maritime knowledge. For 100 years, the demanding conditions of the North Sea have shaped Ulstein's quality and safety standards and created a strong foundation for meeting future challenges.
The company was established in 1917 by the then-23-year-old Martin Ulstein and his brother-in-law, Andreas Flø. It started as a mechanical workshop to modify local fishing boats undergoing a global transition from sail-power to motorization. After Martin's sudden death in 1948, his eldest son, Magnulf, took over as yard manager, while his widow, Inga, was Chair of the Board.
Passenger vessels and propeller production
In the years to follow, Ulstein would grow into a global player and participate in many technological transformations in the maritime industry. From the mid-1960s, this development took place under the management of Martin's youngest son, Idar Ulstein (read full story).
In the 1960s, it was important for Ulstein Group to start some form of production, and the choice was to produce propellers.
Norwegian ship designs adapted to offshore North Sea conditions
The oil age in Norway started in the late 1960s. During this period, the company received regular enquiries concerning the construction of supply vessels of American designs. The company believed these vessels would not be particularly suitable for the prevailing weather conditions in the North Sea. Ulstein began to develop new types of vessels in-house. The hulls were broader, with higher freeboards for the vessels to operate safely in rough seas. Ulstein began selling their UT designs to other yards worldwide, giving the financial strength to carry on an extensive operation within this field.
In 1999, most of the company was sold to Vickers (later acquired by Rolls-Royce), but the Ulstein family kept the shipbuilding division and started building the new Ulstein. A new portfolio of ship designs was developed under the brand name ULSTEIN designs, and many products and solutions within power & control (automation) and ship designs were later developed.
The X-BOW was introduced in 2005, and the anchor-handling tug supply vessel, the 'Bourbon Orca' was the first to be delivered. Today, more than 100 X-BOW vessels are being constructed or delivered.
From 1999 to 2020, the company was headed by the third generation of the family, Gunvor Ulstein and Tore Ulstein. Today, they hold positions as Chair of the Board or board members in the various Ulstein companies.
What is our story
Our commitment to our customers shines through our vision and values. These, combined with our distinctive business culture and proud achievements, embody the essence of Ulstein.
And what makes us truly stand apart? A rich maritime history that lends us a unique identity and enduring legacy.
How we make a difference
Ulstein is a third-generation family-owned company and an internationally renowned provider of ship designs, shipbuilding and system solutions for ships. Ulstein’s vision is to create tomorrow’s solutions for sustainable marine operations. The company was founded in 1917, and is headquartered in Ulsteinvik, Norway.
We build upon a legacy
Ulstein has transformed remarkably from a humble mechanical workshop to a trailblazer in vessel design, shipbuilding, and maritime solutions. We take pride in our rich legacy that spans over a century, showcasing our journey of innovation and growth.
A culture of innovation
Our business culture combines structure and creativity, experience and innovation, bold thinking and precise execution.
Award-winning maritime pioneers
With creative enthusiasm, we combine skills, knowledge and creativity to develop new concepts, solutions and products that can carry the maritime industry into the future. Throughout our history, we have received several nominations and awards, some of which are listed below.
