Imagine a ship harnessing the power of the wind to transport goods across oceans—a vision that’s now a reality thanks to a forward-thinking French cooperative. They’ve teamed up with RMK Marine in Turkey to build the world’s first sail-powered containership. This isn’t just any ship; it’s a vessel designed by Windcoop that combines wind propulsion with modern container handling, kicking off a new era of eco-friendly shipping.
The ship, named Anemos, has been crafted to tackle the tricky technical and logistical hurdles that come with such innovation. It features asymmetrical sails and an open-hatch layout, with cranes strategically placed to keep things stable and allow for autonomous operation. In August 2024, Anemos set off on its maiden voyage, carrying 1,000 tons of precious cargo from Southern Brittany, France, to New York.
Windcoop was founded in Lorient, France, back in 2022, bringing together Zéphyr & Borée, Enercoop, and Arcadie. Their 300-foot ship is equipped with 40 reefer plugs and can hold 210 TEU. It’s powered by three wing sails that cover 11,300 square feet. According to The Marine Executive (TME), the ship marries wind propulsion with efficient container handling, cruising comfortably at about 9 knots.
We’re in the final stages of development. Parts orders have started this year, with construction kicking off in 2026. Trials and commissioning are on the calendar for May 2027, all at a construction cost of $31.2 million. A regional marine bank and state financial support are backing the project, with $7.4 million coming from individuals, shippers, and investors—marking a first for cooperative ship financing.
RMK Marine is excited about the ship’s role in spearheading sustainable, green shipping technologies through Windcoop’s cooperative model. “Like the Noeliner Origin, this ship will shape the future of wind-powered shipping,” RMK Marine shared on LinkedIn.
Windcoop’s first service route will focus on secondary ports, aiming to improve access and cut down on carbon emissions. Registered in France, the ship will travel between Marseille and Madagascar ports without needing transshipment, and it will even make a Suez Canal transit. Over a 31-day route, it will carry goods like cocoa and textiles to France and return with retail items and supplies.
Plans for a second ship are already in the works, aiming for a monthly schedule between France and Madagascar. Windcoop also dreams of expanding its network with new routes that fit local economies, including a transatlantic line, a direct West Africa link, and an Indian Ocean connection.
