World’s 1st Theatre Ship Gets eSAIL

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(WMN) La Naumon, the first theatre vessel in the world, has been equipped with eSAIL, a wind-assisted propulsion technology provided by Spanish cleantech engineering company bound4blue.
The 18-metre-high rigid sail, equipped with a tilting mechanism and an autonomous control system, is said to comply with International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) emissions reduction regulations, such as the upcoming EEXI and CII measures.
“Our rigid sails are quick and simple to install. Before the installation, a detailed vessel transformation project is performed and submitted to the class society and flagging state for approval,” José Miguel Bermúdez, CEO of bound4blue, explained.
“Later, prior to the installation, the foundation and electrical work is completed. The installation can then be performed afloat, like in the case of La Naumon, during a scheduled drydocking or during any port call, as the operation takes less than a day.”
This installation, approved by classification society DNV, has been done within the framework of the GREENing the Blue project, co-funded by the European Union.
The Spanish shipyard Astander has participated in the project leading all the installation phase of the sail and the German company Lanitz Aviation has tested new lightweight materials to be applied in the maritime sector.
The project aims to promote the use of wind power to propel vessels, thus reducing fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.
*Culled from the World Maritime News.