Klaveness Combination Carriers install bound4blue’s suction sails

KCC, through a subsidiary, has confirmed an agreement with Jiangsu New Yangzi Shipbuilding and Jiangsu Yangzi Xinfu Shipbuilding to install bound4blue’s eSAILs® suction sails on its third CABU III vessel, slated for delivery in Q3 2026. This vessel will be among the first tanker/bulk carriers outfitted with the advanced Wind Assisted Propulsion System (WAPS), showcasing two eSAIL® units, each standing 24 meters tall, setting a new size benchmark for suction sails in the sector.

The decision to implement bound4blue’s WAPS followed a detailed evaluation of wind-assist technologies, with the eSAILs® chosen for their performance potential on KCC’s specific routes. The eSAILs®, leveraging suction sail technology, create forward thrust by capturing wind power, reducing main engine fuel use and, in turn, emissions. Each sail, powered by a fan system that draws air over the optimized surface, delivers increased propulsive efficiency—a key factor as KCC continues to advance its carbon reduction initiatives.

Strategically positioned at the bow, the two eSAIL® units will enhance efficiency in both open sea navigation and port operations. DNV Type Approved, the sails are offered in three height models, from 12 to 36 meters, with KCC marking its status as the first shipowner to select the 24-meter model 3 for a newbuild.

This installation is part of KCC’s environmental roadmap, aimed at cutting fleet carbon intensity by over 45% by 2030. With combination carriers achieving a 30–40% lower carbon footprint compared to conventional vessels, KCC has committed over USD 32 million toward energy efficiency initiatives, aiming for a 15% reduction in fuel and carbon emissions across its modern post-2015 fleet.

CEO Engebret Dahm of Klaveness Combination Carriers highlighted the milestone, stating, “We at KCC are excited to partner with bound4blue to integrate innovative wind-assisted propulsion solutions. This technology holds great potential for emission reductions and will be crucial for the industry’s decarbonization targets.”

David Ferrer, CTO and co-founder of bound4blue, echoed the sentiment: “This contract is groundbreaking for us—not only the largest eSAIL® installation but our first newbuild project in China. The eSAILs® will provide KCC with a proven, autonomous, and operationally efficient solution, reinforcing KCC’s role in leading the ‘wind revolution’ within the shipping sector.”