Posted by the TravelPulse, on 05 July 2023

In its commitment toward zero carbon navigation, PONANT is developing a transoceanic sailing ship set to debut in 2030, which “aims to be a catalyst for new energy solutions for PONANT and the broader industry,” the line said.

“By 2030, our future ship aims to have zero greenhouse gas emissions when sailing, maneuvering, in port or at anchor,” said PONANT CEO Hervé Gastinel.

“Her carbon footprint will be reduced throughout her life cycle. Renewable energy supplied by the wind and sun will be combined with low-carbon non-fossil energy associated with fuel cells.”

The ship, which will be equipped with approximately 100 staterooms, is being designed in conjunction with Nantes, France-based Stirling Design International, a design and naval architecture firm.

A shipyard for the vessel’s construction has yet to be finalized, PONANT said.

“This is much more than a new ship. We want to offer a new mode of navigation and actively contribute to decarbonization of the maritime sector,” Gastinel said.

“Our inhouse R&D team has brought together the best specialists in shipbuilding and renewable energy to imagine and develop an energy model that aims at zero emissions. 

“With Swap2Zero, we are building a French technological showcase to convince other stakeholders to commit to carbon neutral navigation.”

PONANT, which was founded 35 years ago, features a fleet of 13 French-flagged small ships.

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