bound4blue installs first eSAIL® system under Maersk Tankers deal

bound4blue has completed its first eSAIL® installation under its landmark agreement with Maersk Tankers, fitting four suction sails on the Maersk Trieste.

The project marks the first phase of a contract to install 20 eSAIL® units across five MR tankers. The deal, signed in December 2024, is bound4blue’s largest to date.

The four 24-metre eSAIL® units were installed at EDR Shipyard in Belgium, following vessel preparation at Yiu Lian Shipyard in China. Crews completed the work using a two-step “wind-ready” approach that reduced downtime and simplified integration.

bound4blue’s eSAIL® technology generates up to seven times more lift than conventional rigid sails. The system cuts fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by double-digit percentages while improving vessels’ CII ratings. It also supports compliance with FuelEU Maritime, EEDI, EEXI and EU ETS regulations.

“Our system delivers high performance with minimal complexity,” said CEO José Miguel Bermúdez. “This installation proves that wind propulsion is ready to scale, even in the tanker sector.”

Maersk Tankers said the project reflects its focus on practical decarbonisation.

“Progress requires real investment,” said Claus Grønborg, Chief Investment Officer. “Wind-assisted propulsion helps us reduce fuel use and emissions while supporting regulatory compliance.”

bound4blue’s DNV Type Approved eSAIL® systems can be installed on newbuilds or retrofits across multiple vessel types, including tankers, bulkers, Ro-Ros and gas carriers.

The Maersk Tankers project follows recent eSAIL® contracts with shipowners such as Louis Dreyfus Company, Eastern Pacific Shipping, Odfjell, Klaveness Combination Carriers and BW Epic Kosan, highlighting the growing role of wind propulsion in maritime decarbonisation.

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