Cruise Line Fosters Zero-Carbon Approach

The sail-assisted, ocean-going vessel concept developed jointly with Stirling Design International of Nantes is expected to be operationally realised by 2030.

The envisaged fleet addition, at some 181m length overall and incorporating about 100 passenger cabins, would give first form to the Swap2Zero research programme in which Ponant has partnered with shipbuilding industry and renewable energy specialists.

The vessel is intended as a catalyst for new energy solutions to be adopted not only by Ponant but also by shipbuilders, in line with evolving European and international regulations governing greenhouse gas emissions. Equipment, machinery and materials selection will be determined in accordance with a comprehensive, life cycle analytical approach.

Swap2Zero aims for zero CO₂-equivalent emissions in operation, taking into account CO₂, methane and nitrous oxide(N₂O) emissions on a one-month operational autonomy basis, by adopting a combination of six technological building blocks for decarbonisation.

The first and foremost feature will be a sail system capable of providing an average 50% of the required propulsion energy using the force of the wind. The vessel will also carry arrays of photovoltaic panels totalling more than 1,000m² in surface area, using what are described as new-generation organic solar devices integrated into the structures and sails.

The proposed specification embraces both low-temperature and high-temperature fuel cells. The former will operate on liquid hydrogen and serve as a source of propulsive power, with the water and heat produced being recycled, while the latter unit will be dedicated to meeting the ship’s hotel load, also yielding hot water through the process of waste heat recovery. Onboard carbon capture technology would be applied in conjunction with the high-temperature fuel cell.

To complete the overall set up, the ship will feature a bespoke energy management system, controlling and distributing power in generator-free service.

Discussions are under way to select a shipyard and award a construction contract. As part of the call for tenders, two distinct sail solutions are being considered. Both are of French origin, one being the Ayro Oceanwings system, and the other being the Solid Sail array devised by Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

“Ponant is a company of sailors focused on exploration and innovation, and it is this pioneering spirit that is inspiring the whole Swap2Zero programme,” asserted CEO Herve Gastinel, adding “This is much more than a new ship. We want to offer a new mode of navigation and actively contribute to decarbonisation of the maritime sector. Our in-house 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.”