Dykstra Naval Architects Designs 24-Meter Zero-Emission Autonomous Cargo Vessel for Clippership
Dykstra Naval Architects is proud to announce the signing of a contract for the design of a 24-meter zero-emission, autonomous, wind-powered cargo vessel for Clippership. The vessel represents a significant step forward in sustainable maritime transport and is scheduled for launch in late 2026.
The new vessel has been specifically designed for open-ocean autonomous operations and will serve pilot cargo routes across the Transatlantic, Caribbean, and South American regions. Primary propulsion is provided by twin foldable rigid wings, enabling efficient wind-powered operation with zero emissions. The vessel features a climate-controlled cargo hold with a capacity of up to 75 Euro-pallets.
Construction will take place at KM Yachtbuilders in the Netherlands. Glosten, the Seattle-based naval architecture and marine engineering firm, has completed the vessel's structural engineering. The ship will be built in accordance with RINA rules, supervised during construction, and classed as a WAPS General Cargo Ship. The vessel will sail under the Maltese flag.
Naval architecture for the project has been carried out by Dykstra Naval Architects, building on the firm's extensive experience in the design of innovative sailing vessels, including Maltese Falcon, SY Black Pearl, and Sea Eagle.
Clippership is developing the vessel's autonomy software and rigid-wing technology in-house, resulting in a fully integrated system optimized for safety, efficiency, and reliability on blue-water routes.
This project underscores Dykstra Naval Architects' continued commitment to advancing wind-assisted propulsion, zero-emission solutions, and next-generation maritime design.