The not-for-profit member driven association that is promoting the use of wind propulsion technologies in the shipping industry, the International Windship Association (IWSA) is also an active Supporter of The Motorship’s Propulsion & Future Fuels Conference.
IWSA’s objective is to facilitate the general concept of wind propulsion in the global commercial shipping industry and bring together all parties interested in the development and uptake of these technology solutions.
It has recently highlighted a unique addition to the Odfjell chemical tanker fleet. Named after the famous Norwegian Viking explorer Leiv Erikson, Bow Erikson is ready to chart new waters in Odfjell’s decarbonization journey.
The newbuilt vessel is equipped with a gate rudder and wind-assisted propulsion sails (WAPS), advanced technology that sets a new benchmark in her class with energy efficiency improved by 50%.
An industry-first for chemical tankers, the gate rudder is an advanced steering system with vertical foils on either side of the propeller which interact directly with the propeller’s slipstream, generating added lift and thrust. The result is improved propulsion efficiency and reduced emissions.
Working in tandem – when conditions allow – are four automatic Econowind suction sails that provide additional thrust and reduce fuel consumption, adding a renewable resource to the vessel’s energy mix.
Bow Erikson is the first chemical tanker to achieve a Phase 5 Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) equivalent rating. She is also the first vessel in Odfjell’s new naming series: the explorers. The coming eight vessels in this 40k dwt segment will all carry the names of renowned Norwegian, Japanese, and Filipino explorers – honouring Odfjell’s Norwegian heritage, the vessels’ Filipino crews, and a long-standing connection with Japan’s Kitanihon shipyard.
Join Gavin Allwright, Secretary General, International Windship Association at the 47th Propulsion & Future Fuels Conference 2026, to be will be held 8-10 December in Hamburg.
Book today for 20% off your delegate pass.
Find out more about International Windship here
