VELA

These emissions, which account for 3% of the total, could rise to 17% by 2050. Passionate about sailing and convinced that a return to cargo transport by sail is part of the future, five entrepreneurs, including renowned French sailor François Gabart, created VELA in 2022 to set up a viable project. Today, the company employs 1,000 people who are working on the construction of the world’s largest cargo trimaran, which is scheduled to be launched in early 2026. To meet this challenge, VELA has called on companies around the world to develop unique parts that have never been made before.

The first route will open in the second half of 2026, operating between New Jersey and Honfleur or Bordeaux in France. These ports were chosen because they are located closest to customers. By 2027-2028, at least four additional trimarans will be operational, increasing the frequency of rotations and reaching a schedule of one departure per week.

Technical specifications
Architect: VPLP Design
Material: aluminum
Length: 220’ (67 m)
Beam: 82’ (25 m)
Air draft: 200’ (61 m)

www.vela-transport.com