by Manal Barakat, SeaNewsEditor

The Neoliner Origin, a sail-powered cargo vessel developed by Neoline, called in Marseille on 6 October.

Neoliner and CMA CGM undertook this initiative to develop a vessel that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% while maintaining operational performance comparable to that of conventional maritime transport.

CMA CGM, a major partner of Neoline since 2022, has supported the project by validating its technical, regulatory, and commercial feasibility.

Commissioned in October 2025, Neoliner Origin is the first ConRo (container–ro-ro) vessel to feature primary sail propulsion.

It will operate on the Saint-Nazaire – Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon – Baltimore – Halifax route, with a capacity of 265 TEUs, focusing on rolling and oversized cargo.

According to CMA CGM's press release, the ship is equipped with 3,000 square metres of rigid sails mounted on two carbon masts exceeding 70 metres in height.

These sails, designed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, are automatically oriented to maximise wind efficiency.

A hybrid sail/motor system ensures reliable crossings, supported by digital weather-routing tools for optimal navigation.