New sail cargo ship docks in Zeebruges

The port of Zeebruges has welcomed a new landmark with the arrival of the Neoliner Origin, the world's largest sail cargo ship, which made a notable stop there on 21 September. The ship’s nearly 90-meter-high main mast stands out as a striking feature of the vessel.

Zeebruges becomes a regular stop

The logistics company CMA CGM, which owns the Neoliner Origin, has decided to include Zeebruges in its route connecting Europe to the United States and Canada. The ship will make stops at several other ports, including Montoir-de-Bretagne in France and Halifax in Canada.

Wind-powered travel with a backup engine

The Neoliner Origin, which is 136 meters long, uses 3,000 square meters of rigid sails—roughly the size of half a football field—to move through the water. However, the ship also has an engine for situations like entering or leaving ports, where wind power might not be sufficient.

Environmental goals drive the design

Captain Jérôme Vaudelet emphasized that the ship's design aims to use the sails as much as possible to reduce emissions. The Neoliner Origin, launched a year ago from a shipyard in Turkey, is part of an effort to achieve 80% less CO2 emissions compared to traditional cargo ships.

Regular visits depend on the wind

The ship is expected to dock in Zeebruges every five to six weeks, depending on wind conditions. This schedule reflects the reliance on natural forces to propel the vessel, while still maintaining the flexibility to use the engine when needed.