Shipbuilder Austal has been awarded a contract to design and construct a wind-powered, aluminium cargo trimaran for Vela Transport of Bayonne, France.
The purchase price for the vessel cannot be disclosed for commercial reasons, however it is in the range of $40–$45 million, according to the company.
The first-of-class, 66.8 metre high-value cargo vessel, based on a concept by VPLP of Paris and featuring a sailing system by MerConcept, will be constructed by Austal Philippines, in Balamban, Cebu.
The revolutionary vessel is scheduled for delivery in mid CY2026.
Austal Limited Chief Executive Officer Paddy Gregg said the new contract confirmed Austal’s position as a leader in trimaran design and construction.
Gregg said: “Austal is delighted to be partnering with Vela to deliver this unique, sailing cargo trimaran – a striking looking vessel that will transport high-value goods across the Atlantic Ocean using 100 percent wind power.
“Austal’s proven experience in trimaran design offers Vela a large cargo space and greater flexibility while delivering superior seakeeping, efficiency, and performance.
“The shallow draft of the trimaran also allows greater access to secondary ports, facilitating access to Vela’s customers’ factories and warehouses.
“The use of sails for main propulsion, rather than conventional diesel-powered engines, is also expected to deliver a 99 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, compared with conventional container ships.”
Austal has constructed 25 large trimarans for commercial and defence operators since 2007.
“No other shipbuilder is better placed to deliver this impressive new ship for Vela, and the Austal Philippines team can’t wait to get started.”
Vela Transport Chief Executive Officer Pierre-Arnaud Vallon said the company and the vessel were helping to shape the future of international maritime transport.
Vallon said: “With our strategic shipbuilding partner Austal, we are pioneering the way for an era where ships harness clean and inexhaustible energy.
“This sailing cargo trimaran, the first and largest of its kind, symbolises our vision of a world where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.”
Austal was selected after a global tender process lasting over nine months.
Picture: Vela Transport/Austal is constructing a 66 metre aluminium sailing cargo trimaran for Vela Transport of France