Maersk Tankers installs first eSAIL system on MR tanker Maersk Trieste

Maersk Tankers has taken a practical step toward decarbonisation and fuel efficiency by completing its first wind-assisted propulsion retrofit, as reported by The Maritime Telegraph. The project marks the debut installation of bound4blue’s eSAIL technology on the medium-range tanker Maersk Trieste, under a wider agreement aimed at cutting fuel use and emissions across the fleet.

The retrofit took place at EDR Shipyard in Belgium, where four 24-metre suction sails were fitted to the vessel. These units are the first delivered under a multi-vessel contract signed in December 2024, which covers 20 eSAILs for five advanced MR tankers operated by Maersk Tankers.

Developed by Spanish technology firm bound4blue, the eSAIL is an autonomous, suction-based sail that generates aerodynamic lift by drawing airflow across a specially designed surface. The company says this approach can deliver up to seven times more lift than conventional rigid sails of comparable size, making it suitable for large commercial vessels without disrupting operations.

For Maersk Trieste, the system allows wind energy to supplement main propulsion, delivering double-digit reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions under favourable conditions. The upgrade also supports improved Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings and helps the vessel align with regulations such as FuelEU Maritime and EEXI, according to industry assessments.

Commenting on the project, Claus Gronborg, Chief Investment Officer at Maersk Tankers, said meaningful emissions reductions require concrete investments rather than long-term pledges. He added that scaling wind-assisted propulsion fits the company’s strategy to lower environmental impact while protecting commercial performance. Industry observers, including DNV, note that wind-assist technologies are gaining traction as shipowners look for near-term efficiency gains alongside alternative fuels.