SolidSail
Sign in to saveAlso known as Solid Sail, SMAF, Solid Sail Mast Factory
SolidSail, sometimes referred to as Solid Sail or SolidSail Mast Factory (SMAF) in reference to the eponymous subsidiary, is a wind propulsion technology designed for large vessels, developed by Chantiers de l'Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France. This innovative system is based on rigid sails made of composite materials and a tilting gaff rigging, enabling hybrid or primary wind propulsion for commercial and cruise ships. It is also the name of the subsidiary created by Chantiers de l'Atlantique in 2023.
~24 min read
Article
25 sectionsContents
- History
- Project genesis
- Technological development
- Testing program
- Full-scale demonstrator
- Industrialization
- Technical description
- General concept
- Sail structure
- AeolDrive rigging
- Product ranges
- Performance and environmental objectives
- Commercial applications
- ''Neoliner Origin''
- ''Orient Express Corinthian''
- Future applications
- Public support and partnerships
- Public financing
- Industrial and academic partners
- List of SolidSail ships
- SolidSail concept ships
- Outlook
- See also
- References
- External links
SolidSail, sometimes referred to as Solid Sail or SolidSail Mast Factory (SMAF) in reference to the eponymous subsidiary, is a wind propulsion technology designed for large vessels, developed by Chantiers de l'Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France. This innovative system is based on rigid sails made of composite materials and a tilting gaff rigging, enabling hybrid or primary wind propulsion for commercial and cruise ships. It is also the name of the subsidiary created by Chantiers de l'Atlantique in 2023.
Three SolidSail units are currently used for the propulsion systems of the longest sailing ship ever constructed (as of 2026), the Orient Express Corinthian, which is able to rely exclusively on its wind-powered propulsion in optimal conditions.