Clippership Signs Contract With KM Yachtbuilders To Build Its First Autonomous Cargo Vessel

Clippership has completed the design of its first 24-metre class zero-emission, autonomous cargo vessel and has signed a construction contract with Dutch shipyard KM Yachtbuilders.

The vessel, which has received RINA design approval, is scheduled for launch in late 2026 and will operate on pilot routes across the transatlantic, Caribbean and South American regions.

The vessel will feature twin foldable rigid wings that provide primary wind propulsion. Its climate-controlled cargo hold can carry up to 75 Euro-pallets.

The ship is being designed for open-ocean autonomy, with Clippership developing both the autonomy systems and wind-propulsion technology in-house.

Once built, it will be classed as a WAPS General Cargo Ship under RINA rules and will sail under the Maltese flag.

Naval architecture for the vessel is led by Dykstra Naval Architects, the firm behind notable sailing vessels including the Maltese Falcon, Sea Eagle and SY Black Pearl.

Structural engineering has been carried out by Glosten, a Seattle-based naval architecture and marine engineering company.

The construction will take place at KM Yachtbuilders in the Netherlands, a yard recognised for building innovative aluminium expedition vessels such as Bestevaer, Pelagic and Qilak.

Industry experts say the project combines Dykstra’s expertise in large sailing vessels, Glosten’s engineering capabilities, and Clippership’s in-house autonomy and rigid-wing technology.

KM Yachtbuilders’ experience in building safe, innovative vessels and RINA’s design approval are expected to ensure full compliance with international regulations.

The 24-metre class vessel represents a step forward in sustainable maritime operations, offering autonomous, wind-powered cargo transport over long-distance routes. Commercial operations are anticipated to begin shortly after the vessel’s launch in late 2026.

Reference: kmyachtbuilders

Source: Maritime Shipping News