Classification society RINA has approved the design of Clippership’s first 24-metre autonomous, wind-powered cargo vessel, marking a further step toward zero-emission ocean freight using wind propulsion.

The vessel is designed for open-ocean operations and will be constructed by KM Yachtbuilders, with RINA supervising the build and providing classification in accordance with its rules.

The zero-emission ship will rely on twin foldable rigid wings as its primary propulsion system and has been optimised for autonomous sailing. It will feature a climate-controlled cargo hold with capacity for up to 75 Euro-pallets, targeting sustainable short-sea and transoceanic logistics.

Under RINA class, the vessel will be designated as a General Cargo Ship – Powered Sailing Ship and will carry the additional WAPS (Wind Assisted Propulsion System) notation.

Launch is scheduled for late 2026, with initial commercial operations planned on pilot routes across the Atlantic, Caribbean and South America.

Naval architecture for the project is being led by Dykstra Naval Architects, with structural engineering provided by Glosten. Clippership has developed both the autonomy systems and wind-propulsion technology in-house.

RINA said the project reflects growing interest in wind-assisted and autonomous vessels as part of wider efforts to reduce emissions from maritime transport and develop viable zero-emission cargo solutions.