Inside the World’s Largest Wind-Powered Cargo Ship

The Neoliner Origin, the world’s largest cargo ship to use wind as its primary propulsion, has officially touched the water for the first time.

Launched from the RMK Marine shipyard in Tuzla, Turkey, it marks a major milestone in the journey towards decarbonising global maritime transport.

The vessel is now set to complete the final stages of construction, including mast installation, followed by sea trials ahead of its first transatlantic voyage scheduled for June 2025.

Designed to slash carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional cargo vessels, the Neoliner Origin is part of a broader effort to provide sustainable, low-carbon shipping options for major global brands.

Companies including Renault, Hennessy and Clarins are already on board, integrating this eco-friendly vessel into their supply chains as part of their sustainability commitments.

Built for impact

Measuring 136 metres (446 feet) in length, the Neoliner Origin is primarily a roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) cargo ship, specifically designed to carry outsize cargo that can be wheeled on and off the vessel.

Its cargo capacity includes space for 5,300 tonnes or up to 265 containers.

Onboard, it will transport everything from Renault vehicles and Manitou forklifts to Beneteau sailing yachts. Luxury goods such as Longchamp handbags, Hennessy cognac, Rémy Cointreau spirits, Clarins cosmetics and Le Fournée Dorée brioche are also set to make the journey across the Atlantic.

The vessel is equipped to carry refrigerated (reefer) cargo, ensuring perishable goods stay fresh throughout its 13-day transatlantic crossings. While its primary role is cargo transport, the Neoliner Origin also has space to accommodate up to 12 passengers comfortably, offering a unique maritime experience.

Powering this impressive ship are two 90-metre (295-foot) masts and an expansive 3,000 square metres (32,300 square feet) of sails. Wind will provide 60–70% of the vessel’s propulsion, supported by hybrid diesel-electric engines when needed.

To further boost efficiency, the ship employs slow steaming—sailing at a reduced speed of 11 knots—to conserve fuel and reduce emissions. It even generates energy from its own wake, maximising sustainability at every turn.

The story behind Neoline

The Neoliner Origin is the brainchild of Neoline, a company founded in 2015 by Jean Zanuttini and nine co-founders, including fellow seafarer Michel Pery. Both Jean and Michel come from maritime backgrounds, bringing a wealth of nautical experience to the project.

Their vision was to create a new kind of shipping company which prioritises environmental responsibility without compromising on reliability or efficiency.

Jean, President of Neoline Development, reflects on this milestone: "Completing construction of our ship is just the beginning, as we will soon begin operations.

"Neoline was created out of a desire to prove that we can create a different kind of shipping company; one that dramatically reduces emissions as well as delivering cargo reliably, on schedule and handling a wide range of logistics challenges. That work starts now, with our upcoming sea trials."

For Michel Pery, President of Neoline & Associates, this moment represents the culmination of more than a decade of hard work: "This is an extremely proud moment for me and the entire Neoline team.

"Throughout my career I’ve always thought about renewing the concept of sail cargo vessels. Jean and I first started the design for this ship in 2011; now, seeing Neoliner Origin hit the water and approaching completion, it’s testament to 14 years of hard work and dedication.

"We’d like to thank everyone who has helped us get this far; the shipyard, our technical partners and our cargo customers who’ve put their trust in us."

A new era for sustainable shipping

Neoline’s mission aligns with the growing demand from businesses to reduce their environmental impact, particularly when it comes to global logistics.

For companies like Clarins, sustainability is woven into corporate philosophy.

Yann Le Gouic, International Transport and Logistics Manager at Clarins, highlights the significance of this partnership: "At Clarins, taking care of the planet is an integral part of the company philosophy, a moment-to-moment mindset.

"The Group’s commitment to reduce its carbon footprint by 30% by 2025 involves sustainable procurement, particularly in terms of transport. Neoline’s innovative and carbon-low solution perfectly meets our responsible objectives, values and logistic needs.

"It will perfectly fit into our sea shipping system to our American subsidiary. This is the beginning of a new era for more environmentally friendly sea freight. We are proud to be change makers by their side and thus contribute to making life more beautiful, passing on a more beautiful planet."

As the Neoliner Origin prepares for its maiden voyage from St. Nazaire, France, to Baltimore in the US, with a stop in the French overseas territory of St Pierre & Miquelon, it stands as a symbol of what the future of maritime transport can look like—greener, cleaner and driven by the power of the wind.

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