The Neoline Origin made her first call to Halifax. The French RO-RO Ship is powered by 2 large sails, and can cross the ocean while burning minimal fuel. The Ship began construction in 2021 this is its second voyage. the ships maiden crossing had stops in Saint Pierre and Miquelon, and Baltimore. Problems with the sail system sent the ship back to France.

A fully enclosed RO-RO vessel, the ship carries container internally, and has contracts with Michelin, so it should be a regular caller going forward.

With fuel cost rising, shippers are looking at other options. E-Ship One uses Fletner Rotors to supplement propulsion, and called at Pier 9 last year. Beluga Shipping also tried a skysail, basically a large Kite. I covered some of the advances in a return to sail video on Youtube.

I originally covered the Neoliner for the Herald in 2021.