Designed to transport parts of the Ariane 6 rocket from European ports to French Guiana, the cargo ship Canopée is scheduled for launch in late 2022. She will be 121 m long and powered by four 363 m² wingsails set on 36 m masts.
In 2018 the Ariane Group called for tenders to transport parts of the Ariane 6 rocket from ports in Europe to Kourou, French Guiana. VPLP drew up a preliminary project centred on a RORO vessel rigged with Oceanwings wingsails (363 m²), also developed by the firm, and ran simulations on the potential fuel savings. The shipping company Zéphyr & Borée subsequently joined the project, bringing to the table its expertise in order to adapt the design to the specific constraints of carrying the Ariane 6. Jifmar and Zéphyr & Borée joined forces to establish the Alizés shipping company, which then tendered the winning proposal. Jifmar Guyane will become the shipowner.
Canopée is the first commercial application of the Oceanwings concept and, in proportion to her main propulsion system, she will harness the wind more than any other modern vessel. She is expected to undertake eleven return trips to French Guiana every year.
These wingsails will reduce fuel consumption by 15%, amounting to 3.5 tonnes of fuel per day at sea, without impacting the ship’s speed.
