Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 5, Neoliner Origin, the world’s first commercial sailing roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel, has successfully completed its second sea trials. The vessel is being built for French shipping company Neoline at the RMK Marine shipyard in Turkey. The latest round of tests focused on verifying numerous onboard systems, performing regulatory checks, and conducting adjustments. Importantly, the trials also allowed the vessel to sail under wind power for several hours, assessing its maneuverability and flexibility.

Neoline highlighted that some final work remains before delivery, stating: “This work aims to perfect every technical detail and ensure that the vessel fully meets our requirements in terms of performance, safety, and environmental efficiency.” The company further noted: “This is what makes a pioneering vessel so special: taking the time to adjust, test, and optimize, paving the way for future generations. Very soon, our first sail-powered Ro-Ro vessel will set sail and cross the Atlantic.”

The vessel, launched in January 2025, is equipped with nearly 3,000 square meters of sail and two foldable 76-meter-high Solidsail carbon masts manufactured by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France. It measures 136 meters in length and 24.2 meters in width, designed to carry both cargo and passengers. The ship has a loading capacity of 1,200 linear meters, equivalent to 265 standard 20-foot containers, with a maximum cargo weight of 5,300 tonnes. Onboard facilities also include accommodation for 12 passengers in six double cabins, along with space for 13 crew members.

According to Neoline, the Neoliner Origin represents a significant step forward in sustainable maritime transport. The company estimates that the vessel’s design can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% on transatlantic routes, while also eliminating sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). By integrating advanced sail technology with modern shipping operations, the project aims to demonstrate the viability of large-scale commercial sailing in reducing environmental impact.

The first stage of sea trials began at the end of June 2025 in the Sea of Marmara, off the coast of RMK Marine’s Tuzla facility. These early tests focused on initial navigation and performance checks, laying the foundation for the more extensive assessments carried out during the second trials. With its development nearing completion, Neoliner Origin is on track to enter service soon, marking an important milestone for both Neoline and the broader shipping industry in pursuing sustainable solutions.