Odfjell’s 49,000dwt chemical tanker, Bow Olympus, departed from EDR Antwerp Shipyard in mid-March 2025 equipped with four 22-meter eSAILs from bound4blue.
The installation is part of a wind-assisted propulsion technology trial as the vessel embarks on a transatlantic voyage to Houston.
According to Odfjell’s announcement, the project aims to evaluate fuel savings and emissions reductions through real-time monitoring during the crossing.
The installation process, designed to accommodate tanker-specific constraints such as cargo tank pipes and air draft limitations, was completed within two days.
A two-step method was used, with sail foundations integrated during drydocking, ensuring minimal disruption to vessel operations.
The eSAILs are fully autonomous and function by generating propulsive efficiency through airflow over an aerodynamic surface.
This innovation aligns with Odfjell’s ongoing decarbonization strategy, which has already achieved a 53% reduction in carbon intensity since 2008—equivalent to removing 21 zero-emission vessels from service.
Sails harness wind power locally and directly, making it a more efficient use of renewable energy. The learnings from Bow Olympus will influence further decisions as Odfjell continue to improve the environmental performance of current vessels.
To ensure smooth operations, the crew, led by Captain Glenn Skjelbred, participated in specialised training sessions covering the impact of the sails on ship movements.
Odfjell’s technology team and bound4blue representatives are also onboard to conduct real-time analysis of the system’s performance.
