In January, French company Neoline Armateur contracted Türkiye’s RMK Marine to build the first ever ro-ro vessel to use wind power for commercial operations at its Tuzla yard. Designed by Mauric, the 136m length Neoliner will be a pioneer of energy transition in shipping, using emission-free wind power captured by a 3,000 sq m area of sail, supported by two 76m SolidSail folding carbon masts.

While wind power is expected to account for almost 80% of Neoliner’s propulsion needs, close maneuvers and service punctuality require auxiliary power to assist. RMK Marine has contracted Berg Propulsion to deliver and offer technical support for the auxiliary propulsion system, in a solution which includes a ‘feathering’ main propeller. When feathered, propeller blades are set parallel to flow, in a position which will minimize drag when Neoliner is under sail.

Berg’s full scope of supply covers an MPP850F controllable pitch propeller with feathering system, the shafting system, gearbox and control system, and 3xMTT113FP tunnel thrusters.

“This is a transformative project that challenges the status quo in commercial shipping, and Berg is delighted to offer enabling technology to optimise Neoliner’s sustainable performance across its operational needs,” said Mustafa Müslüm, General Manager, Berg Propulsion Eurasia. “We would also like to extend our thanks to RMK Marine for its continuing trust in the Berg team.”  

Whether the Neoliner uses 100% sail, electric power, its 3184-kW engine or any combination, the Berg solution will ensure optimized hydrodynamic performance and sustainability, added Müslüm.   

“Berg Propulsion is an established provider of innovative propulsion technology which has been supporting RMK Marine’s delivery of highly reliable ships for almost a decade, across a range of vessel types including tankers, tugs and other service craft,” said Gürkan Türkes (General Manager), RMK Marine. “We are delighted to be working with them once more on this exceptional project.”

Co-financed by CMA CGM, ADEME Investissement, NEOLINE Développement, Corsica Ferries, Louis Hardy S.A.S, the Banque des Territoires and the Pays de la Loire Region, the project anticipates the first Neoliner entering a pilot transatlantic service between Saint-Nazaire, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, Baltimore and Halifax in 2025. Companies behind brands such as Renault, Beneteau, Manitou, Michelin, Hennessy, Clarins, Longchamp and Cointreau have already committed to use Neoliner.

“Steps continue towards the realisation of the Neoliner project as a true pioneer of energy transition in shipping,” said Jean Zanuttini, CEO, Neoline.  “Auxiliary propulsion systems will play a critical role in ensuring that wind power offers a wholly pragmatic solution to shipping’s complex energy issue,”