Neoliner Origin Sail Cargo Ship Cuts Fuel Use by 70%
French shipowner Neoline says its wind-powered ro-ro ship Neoliner Origin cut fuel use by 70% in 2026, its first full year of commercial service across the North Atlantic. The ship sails from Montoir-de-Bretagne, near Saint-Nazaire in western France, to Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, Baltimore in the United States and Halifax in Canada, and added a call at Zeebrugge in Belgium in September.
The 136-metre ship, built by RMK Marine in Turkey, uses two large SolidSail rigs as its main propulsion. Measured against a standard industry reference, Neoline says it saved 3,502 tonnes of fuel and avoided about 11,228 tonnes of CO2, with an average saving of 66% since it entered service in October 2025.
In its first year, the ship sailed more than 62,000 nautical miles, made nine commercial round trips and carried 1,845 cargo units, about 12,063 tonnes, as well as more than 170 passengers. It has sailed above 15 knots on wind alone and reached 16.6 knots in June with its engine stopped.
From the CrewMirror Blog
The result was below the 80% target. Neoline blamed faults in the rigs, which limited sail use, especially with all sails set, along with first-of-a-kind commissioning problems and a difficult trade market. It is working with rig designer Chantiers de l’Atlantique on fixes during a maintenance period in February 2027 and now aims for a 78% fuel cut next year.
Wind propulsion is one of several ways shipping is trying to cut emissions, alongside new fuels such as green ammonia. More maritime news on green shipping is available on CrewMirror.
CrewMirror Takeaway
As more sail-assisted ships enter service, deck and engine officers will need new skills in rig handling, weather routing and maintenance of sail systems. Seafarers who gain this experience early may find it valuable in the years ahead.
