The Neoliner Origin, the world’s largest sail-powered cargo ship, has hit the water at the RMK Marine shipyard in Tuzla, Turkey.
The 136m (446ft) roll-on roll-off (Ro-ro) vessel will now undergo final construction and sea trials before its expected delivery in June 2025.
Designed to cut 80% of emissions compared to conventional ships, the Neoliner Origin is equipped with two 90m (295ft) masts and 3,000 square meters (32,300 sqft) of sails.
Its first transatlantic voyage is scheduled for summer 2025, sailing from St. Nazaire, France, to Baltimore, USA, with a stop at St Pierre & Miquelon.
The ship is owned and operated by Neoline, a company focused on sustainable maritime transport.
It uses wind for 60-70% of its propulsion and features hybrid diesel-electric power, slow steaming at 11 knots and energy recovery from its wake to maximise efficiency.
The Neoliner Origin will carry vehicles, oversized cargo, containers and refrigerated goods. It can also accommodate 12 passengers on its 13-day journey.
“This is an extremely proud moment for me and the entire Neoline team,” said Michel Pery, President of Neoline & Associates. “With this first vessel, we aim to show that it is possible to carry goods industrially while staying within planetary limits.”
