The Fair Winds Collective (FWC) and Modern Maritime Innovation
The Fair Winds Collective is promoting a maritime renaissance, connecting the tradition of sail-powered cargo ships with cutting-edge innovations in sustainable shipping. This blend of old and new is beautifully captured in the YouTube video above.
Words of the movie maker Stefan from Arte: "I watched my own film again today after a long time. It makes me both sad and optimistic. How little people understand and how enthusiastically a few people work on this fantastic technology. I have been sailing since my childhood. It was always clear to me that it was something fantastic. Almost divine. A gift. Burning oil is simply evolution backwards.".
The Collective's mission goes beyond preserving history; it embraces modern advancements like Wing Assisted Ship Propulsion (WASP) and companies such as TransOceanic Wind Transport (TOWT). WASP systems, which use aerodynamic wings to reduce fuel consumption, represent a modern evolution of wind-powered navigation. TOWT's vessels, while equipped with contemporary technology, continue the legacy of sail shipping by primarily relying on wind power.
The Fair Winds Collective's work highlights how traditional sailing can be revitalized to meet today’s environmental challenges. By merging centuries-old practices with innovative technologies, they are helping to chart a course toward a more sustainable future for global shipping.
24-08-07, Maaike de Jong