Laskaridis Shipping dives into wind propulsion with suction sails on board bulker

The major Greek owner has signed a joint development project (JDP) with bound4blue and Bureau Veritas to assess the integration of eSAILs across its fleet. The agreement was signed on 18 March at Laskaridis Shipping’s headquarters in Athens.

“We are proud to pioneer the installation of suction sails on board Polydefkis,” said Laskaridis Shipping DPA, HSQE director Catherine Prifti.

“The integration of wind-assisted propulsion systems, specifically with suction-sail technology, is expected to significantly enhance the vessel’s operational performance.”

Polydefkis is equipped with state-of-the-art telemetry systems to ensure accurate and reliable performance data, while Bureau Veritas will conduct independent validation of the vessel’s operational improvements.

The suction sails developed by bound4blue are suitable for both retrofit and newbuild projects. The JDP will examine key aspects, including installation requirements, onboard integration, operational procedures, and independent validation of performance improvements.

“Through this JDP, the participating parties aim to jointly assess both the technical feasibility and economic viability of the solution across the Greek owner’s fleet,” the announcement said.

“Wind propulsion is a practical way to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and we’re glad to support Laskaridis as they explore how it can play a role across their fleet,” said bound4blue sales director Europe Henning Steffen.

The collaboration framework for the JDP was introduced and facilitated by Oceanking, a Greece-based technical and commercial marine company.