World's largest cargo sail invites passengers for carbon-conscious travel across Atlantic Ocean

The Artemis, described as the world’s largest cargo ship with sails, arrived at New York's shores this week after a 32-day voyage from Le Havre, France. The trip was part of a test run by French startup TransOceanic Wind Transport (TOWT), which is pioneering sustainable maritime transport. TOWT recently opened cabins on its cargo ships to passengers seeking a low-carbon alternative for travel crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Equipped with 52-meter-tall carbon masts and a staggering 2,100 square meters of sail surface, Artemis can travel at an average speed of 11 nautical miles per hour, reaching up to 17 in favorable winds. An article by the CNN network acknowledges that while this is slightly slower than traditional engine-powered cargo ships, which average 14 nautical miles per hour, the difference in carbon footprints is what matters. TOWT estimates that its ships reduce CO2 emissions by over 90% compared to conventional fossil-fuel-powered cargo vessels, relying very minimally on its backup diesel engine. 

When compared to conventional airplane travel, which amounts for the vast majority of transatlantic journeys, the difference is astonishing.

“Our carbon footprint is between five and 10 kilos [per person], compared to around a ton of CO2 if you get a plane [from Paris to New York],” says TOWT’s CEO, Guillaume Le Grand.

Le Grand highlighted the importance of offering an environmentally friendly alternative for crossing the Atlantic. Previously, those seeking zero-carbon travel options had few choices—either swimming or taking a small sailboat, hinting at the time when climate activist Greta Thunberg sailed from the UK to New York to attend the UN climate conference in 2019. Now, TOWT provides an option for passengers to make the journey with their families in comfortable accommodations.

With a cargo capacity of 1,100 tons, Artemis is designed to operate 320 days a year, transporting sustainably sourced goods. The ship’s design aligns with TOWT’s mission to revolutionize maritime transport while minimizing its environmental impact.

TOWT’s sailing cargo ships offer a unique travel experience, with up to six double cabins available per voyage. Passengers share the vessel with a small crew while hundreds of pallets of goods are stored in the hold. The company plans to launch a regular service on its two operational ships, Anemos and Artemis, starting in March. These ships will offer voyages between France, the US, Colombia, Brazil, and Guadeloupe. Additionally, TOWT is constructing six more ships, with the goal of providing weekly departures by 2027.

The cost for a France-to-New York voyage is currently set at €2,550 ($2,675), or approximately €150 ($155) per day. This rate covers accommodation, meals, and internet access, and there are no luggage restrictions—a distinct advantage over air travel. However, these journeys require time and flexibility, as crossings typically take 15–20 days, with trips to Brazil or Guadeloupe lasting up to 25 days. Arrival and departure dates may also shift based on weather conditions.

Tim Williamson, joint managing director of Responsible Travel, an agency specializing in sustainable tourism, acknowledges the rising demand for low-carbon travel options. His agency has observed a 48% increase in rail travel inquiries over the past three years. While transatlantic sailing is still a niche market, more travelers are seeking immersive experiences that foster a deeper connection with nature and culture.

TOWT’s first sail-powered cargo ship, Anemos, was inaugurated in Le Havre in October 2024 after completing its transatlantic journey. As the flagship of TOWT’s eight-ship fleet, Anemos represents a significant step in modern sailing cargo transport. These vessels incorporate advanced sailing technology inspired by ocean racing, furthering the company’s goal of decarbonizing shipping. That same month, TOWT also celebrated the keel-laying ceremony for Atlantis, the third ship in its expanding fleet.

By reintroducing sail-powered cargo ships on transatlantic routes, TOWT is redefining the shipping industry with a sustainable, low-carbon alternative. With growing interest in environmentally friendly travel, its innovative approach could pave the way for a new era of sustainable maritime transport.

By Nazrin Sadigova