Berg Feathering Propeller System Chosen for Wind Assisted Neoliner

An integrated control to propeller solution from Berg Propulsion has been selected to ensure that the Neoliner ro-ro vessel will always achieve optimized performance, whether it is powered by wind alone or with the assistance of gensets.

In January, French company Neoline Armateur contracted Türkiye’s RMK Marine to build the first ever ro-ro vessel to use wind power for commercial operations at its Tuzla yard. Designed by Mauric, the 136m length Neoliner will be a pioneer of energy transition in shipping, using emission-free wind power captured by a 3,000m2 area of sail, supported by two 76m SolidSail folding carbon masts.

While wind power is expected to account for almost 80% of Neoliner’s propulsion needs, close maneuvers and service punctuality require auxiliary power to assist. RMK Marine has contracted Berg Propulsion to deliver and offer technical support for the auxiliary propulsion system, in a solution which includes a feathering main propeller. When feathered, propeller blades are set parallel to flow, in a position which will minimize drag when Neoliner is under sail.

Berg’s full scope of supply covers an MPP850F controllable pitch propeller with feathering system, the shafting system, gearbox and control system, and 3 x MTT113FP tunnel thrusters.

Whether the Neoliner uses 100% sail, electric power, its 3184-kW engine or any combination, the Berg solution will ensure optimized hydrodynamic performance and sustainability, says the company.  

Co-financed by CMA CGM, ADEME Investissement, NEOLINE Développement, Corsica Ferries, Louis Hardy S.A.S, the Banque des Territoires and the Pays de la Loire Region, the project anticipates the first Neoliner entering a pilot transatlantic service between Saint-Nazaire, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, Baltimore and Halifax in 2025. Companies behind brands such as Renault, Beneteau, Manitou, Michelin, Hennessy, Clarins, Longchamp and Cointreau have already committed to use Neoliner.