Chemship vessel becomes first chemical tanker in the world to be fitted with sail kit

Chemship is celebrating becoming the first chemical tanker owner in the world to install wind propulsion.

The Dutch owner has installed four VentoFoils from Econowind on the 134 m long Chemical Challenger, a ship that works a dedicated transatlantic route. 

Chemship expects to achieve an average CO2 reduction of 10% with these sails.

CEO Niels Grotz commented: “As an avid sailor, I know the power of the wind. We will now harness this sustainable and free energy source on MT Chemical Challenger.”

Grotz said his customers were increasingly demanding CO2 reports. 

“The better our ships perform, the higher the rating from our customers. Fewer emissions are not only beneficial for the environment, you will also notice it directly in your wallet,” Grotz said. 

Operations director Michiel Marelis said the sails were easy to install without adding reinforcements to the ship. 

“They are lightweight, have a small deck footprint and do not obstruct the crew’s line of sight,” Marelis said. 

At the push of a button, they can fold or set the sails as needed. Above wind force seven, the sails fold automatically.

Chemship has already selected its next vessel to be fitted with VentoFoils.