The Pioneer of Kite-Based Propulsion Systems
A pioneer reaching for new horizons
SkySails is the pioneer of wind-assisted ship propulsion systems based on kites. After having proven the technology on board of sea-going vessels, a SkySails kite has propelled the Race for Water yacht during its odyssey between 2017 and 2020. Today, the SkySails yacht propulsion system is operated on the MS Porrima, former Race for Water. The experimental ship´s journey to five continents is part of the TEAM EXPO 2025 Special Supporter program that aims to realize the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
However, in order to make the biggest possible impact on the ongoing energy transition, SkySails decided to focus on the dynamic energy sector with its SkySails airborne wind energy systems for power production for the time being.
The SkySails propulsion system for yachts is therefore currently not marketed anymore.
Harness the power of wind to reduce fuel costs
Wind is the cheapest, most powerful, and greenest source of energy on the high seas, and the best solution to turn shipping more sustainable. The wind-assisted yacht propulsion system from SkySails uses the power of wind to tow yachts with kites. The eco-friendly system reduces fuel consumption and offers a new comfort in yachting.
SkySails kites fly at altitudes of up to 300 meters and can thus take advantage of the strong and constant high-altitude wind that is not reduced by friction with the water surface. Besides, the flight maneuvers controlled by the autopilot and performed in front of the yacht increase the kite´s airspeed to a multiple of the true wind speed. The SkySails propulsion system therefore generates five to 25 times the propulsive force per square meter of surface area compared to normal sails.
How it works
The ship’s officers operate the SkySails propulsion system using the control computer installed on the bridge. During flight mode, the autopilot software ensures that the kite flies defined patterns based on wind direction and velocity, as well as the speed of the ship, so that it generates optimal propulsion. The launch and recovery process is widely automated and requires only a few simple actions on the foredeck by the ship´s crew.
Kite
The towing kite is the heart of the SkySails propulsion system. Steered by the control pod, the towing kite performs regular dynamic flight maneuvers in the air in front of the ship to generate tractive force.
Control System
The control system consists of the control pod located underneath the kite and the control computer on the bridge. The control pod contains the autopilot system that steers the kite by manipulating the steering lines and airbrakes. The kite is aligned relative to wind direction, wind force, ship course and ship speed in order to achieve maximum tractive force.
Towing Rope
The tractive force is transmitted to the ship through the towing rope. It is made of HMPE and especially developed for applications with a high demand for safety (e.g., cranes and lifts).
Launch and landing system
The launch and landing system manages the deployment and lowering of the propulsion kite. It is installed on the forecastle and consists of a mast with reefing system which unfurls and reefs the kite respectively during the launch and landing process.
SkySails Kite
on Race for Water
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