Cargo has been transported under sail for thousands of years. These working ships developed and culminated in the fast square-rigged clippers of the mid-19th Century. Since the motorisation of freight there have been huge technological advances in sailing boats optimised for sport and pleasure. Although this has led to modern materials and faster, lighter designs, moving cargo requires different technology.

After 25 years on board sail and motor cargo ships, Jorne Langelaan’s experience affirmed that square-rigged clippers are still the best craft for carrying cargo across oceans emission free.

The EcoClipper500 prototype is based on the successful Dutch clipper, Noach. Square-sail rigs have many sails rigged on horizontal ‘yards’. This gives the ship a huge sail area and ensures the sails are both easier to manipulate and subject to minimal wear. EcoClipper500 will have a steel hull – a material familiar to today’s boatyards, which is critical to building the ships quickly. The EcoClipper500 prototype combines old and new methods of construction to create fast and efficient sail cargo ships. Please read our blog post on the prototype here!

EcoClipper ships will comply with all the regulations set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).

Sometimes that does happen, and we will set all the sails we have! Fortunately, with the knowledge we have of wind patterns throughout the year, we will be able to plan our routes and avoid being becalmed as much as possible. Check out our post about wind here.