Austal to build wind-powered vessel for France’s Vela Transport

Shipbuilder Austal Australasia has been awarded a contract to design and construct a wind-powered, aluminum cargo trimaran for Vela Transport of Bayonne, France.

The first-of-class, 66.8-meter cargo vessel will be based on a concept by VPLP of Paris and feature a sailing system developed by France’s MerConcep, which specializes in engineering, design studies and the construction of boats.

The trimaran will be constructed by Austal Philippines in Balamban, Cebu. It is slated for delivery in mid-2026. The value of the contract is between A$40–$45 million.

“Austal is delighted to be partnering with Vela to deliver this unique, sailing cargo trimaran – a striking-looking vessel that will transport high-value goods across the Atlantic Ocean using 100% wind power,” Austal CEO Paddy Gregg commented.

“Austal is delighted to be partnering with Vela to deliver this unique, sailing cargo trimaran – a striking looking vessel that will transport high-value goods across the Atlantic Ocean using 100% wind power.”

According to Austal, the design will allow Vela Transport a large cargo space and greater flexibility while delivering seakeeping, efficiency, and performance. Furthermore, the shallow draft of the trimaran will allow greater access to secondary ports.

The use of sails for main propulsion, rather than conventional diesel-powered engines, is also expected to deliver a 99% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, the company highlighted.

“We are not just constructing a ship with Austal; we are helping to shape the future of international maritime transport. With our strategic shipbuilding partner Austal, we are pioneering the way for an era where ships harness clean and inexhaustible energy,” Vela Transport CEO Pierre-Arnaud Vallon added.

To remind, Vela Transport unveiled the design of the ship back in June 2023. The vessel is expected to be launched in 2025.