Veer Voyage, a pioneering company established in 2021, is making significant strides toward creating the “world’s first clean containership” for ocean crossings. These vessels will harness wind power and hydrogen fuel cells, representing a groundbreaking step in maritime technology. Veer has selected Fosen Stralsund shipyard in Germany to design and build these revolutionary ships and has secured crucial financing to bring this vision to life.
The project has advanced with the signing of a letter of intent between Veer Voyage and Fosen Stralsund shipyard. This agreement outlines the development and construction of two wind-powered and hydrogen-assisted container ships, expected to enter service in 2027. Veer’s commitment to environmental sustainability is further underscored by their collaboration with various industry leaders to ensure the success of this project.
Financial backing for the design and construction of these innovative vessels has been secured through a letter of intent from Amsterdam-based PROW Capital, which has committed £50 million ($54.5 million) to the project. Additionally, Veer is in the process of raising further capital through a Series A investment round to support this ambitious endeavor.
Veer has partnered with Bernard Schulte Shipmanagement and is in discussions with FUTURESHIPS ship brokerage and multiple charter companies. This collaboration aims to optimize the operational and commercial aspects of the new vessels. The initial design concept for these ships includes a 328-foot (100-meter) vessel capable of carrying between 152 and 160 TEU, including up to 12 refrigerated containers.
Key design elements include an innovative, streamlined hull designed to maximize cargo capacity and speed. The ships will feature carbon fiber masts equipped with pressure-sensing fiber optic cables, contributing to reduced weight and increased stability. These masts, standing at 205 feet (62.5 meters) and using a DynaRig design, will enable the vessel to reach speeds of up to 18 knots with a range of up to 10,400 miles.
Innovative Design Combines Wind Power and Hydrogen Fuel Cells for Emission-Free Maritime Transport
To extend the operational range and provide supplemental power, the ships will also incorporate a hydrogen fuel cell system. This system is expected to achieve speeds of 11 knots with a range of 1,200 miles on fuel cells alone. These innovative ships have been recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as achieving “absolute zero emission” status. Additionally, the American Bureau of Shipping granted Approval in Principle in September 2022 after a thorough review of the design, which also received class notations for silent operations.
Veer Voyage plans to develop a fleet of these zero-emission vessels in the coming years. The modular design of the first ships allows for easy scalability, paving the way for future advancements in sustainable shipping. Veer envisions these vessels as a model for the maritime industry, providing a unique solution to the pressing challenge of decarbonization.
The project represents a significant leap forward in the quest for sustainable maritime transport. By integrating wind power with hydrogen fuel cells, Veer Voyage is poised to revolutionize the shipping industry and set new standards for environmental responsibility. This initiative not only aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions but also showcases the potential for innovative technology to transform traditional industries.
