Wind-powered cargo ship arrives in Halifax, its first Canadian port

The Neoliner Origin vessel is pictured in a handout photo. (Arthur Jacobs/Neoline)

The Neoliner Origin arrived in Halifax Monday, marking the sail-powered cargo ship’s very first Canadian call.

The vessel was developed by Neoline, a French company pioneering zero-emission transatlantic cargo shipping.

“This historic stop marks the vessel’s first arrival in Canada and a significant milestone in the development of sustainable transatlantic shipping,” reads a news release from Neoline. “As the world’s largest cargo vessel powered primarily by wind, Neoliner Origin represents a new generation of low-carbon maritime transport.”

In 2023, the global maritime shipping industry was responsible for around two per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, roughly 911 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, according to Statista and the International Council on Clean Transportation.

Emissions from the industry are continuing to grow.

According to data from the UN, maritime transport moves over 80 per cent of goods traded worldwide.

With wind as a main source of propulsion, the Neoliner Origin aims to reduce its fuel consumption by over 80 per cent. The 136-metre-long roll-on roll-off ship is equipped with two masts and sails.

Neoline is hosting a reception with the Port of Halifax, PSA Halifax and Montship at the PIER to mark the vessel’s first arrival in Canada on Monday.

Duncan Glass, the managing director of PSA Halifax, says the vessel’s arrival in Halifax is a significant milestone for sustainable shipping.

“As the operator of Halifax’s container terminals, PSA Halifax is committed to enabling innovative supply chain solutions while supporting the industry’s transition to lower-carbon transportation,” he says.

Those interested can view the Neoliner Origin as it leaves the harbour between 3 p.m. and 4p.m. anywhere from the waterfront.

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