The Neoliner Origin, the world’s first large, primarily sail-powered cargo ship, has been officially delivered to its French owners and is preparing for its maiden Atlantic crossing later this month.
Built by RMK Marine in Turkey, the 136-meter vessel arrived in Marseille on October 6. It will now continue to Saint-Nazaire, its homeport, before setting sail across the Atlantic on October 15.
Equipped with two rigid Solidsail rigs designed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the Neoliner Origin features 3,000 square meters of sail area and is expected to operate primarily under wind power at a commercial speed of 11 knots.
The 6,300 dwt, 13,278 gt Ro-Ro cargo ship offers 1,200 lane meters of space across three decks, allowing it to carry light vehicles, industrial and agricultural equipment, as well as containers — including refrigerated and oversized cargo. On its debut voyage, the vessel carried 315 cars between Corsica and Marseille.
Beyond freight, the vessel also accommodates 12 passengers in six double cabins, each with private balconies.
Neoline plans to use the Neoliner Origin to establish a monthly transatlantic service connecting Montoir-de-Bretagne (France) with St-Pierre & Miquelon, Halifax, Baltimore, and Cork. The full route will take approximately eight to thirteen days per leg, depending on weather conditions.
Founded in 2013, Neoline aims to pioneer commercial-scale sailing as a sustainable alternative in global shipping. The Neoliner Origin serves as the company’s prototype for a future fleet of wind-assisted vessels.
Photo: Neoliner
