The bulker “Margitte” from NYK Bulkship Atlantic is the first ship from the Japanese NYK Group to be equipped with sails.
In the long term, wind power will contribute to the shipping company’s ambitious goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2050.
The “Margitte” (IMO 9512331), a 229 m long bulker flying the flag of Malta, was fitted with two sails from Ventofoil in Rotterdam on 8 July. These so-called “Suction Sails” are installed on approx. Six metres long containers and are each 16 metres long. A pressure difference on both sides of the wings generates additional propulsion, which reduces CO2 emissions during the journey. The sails can be retracted and extended in five to six minutes so that they do not hinder the loading of the ship in port.
NYK goal is to became climate-neutral
Together with partners Cargill International and the NYK research company MTI, NBAtlantic wants to analyse the installation’s impact on fuel consumption. The Japanese shipping company intends to use the findings to further invest in its goal of becoming climate-neutral. The “Margitte” has already completed its first wind-assisted voyage; it last sailed from Rotterdam to Sao Luis.
The Japanese company is also active in other sectors. Most recently, NYK significantly expanded its activities in the tanker business and took over Eneos’s entire fleet.
