Multipurpose cargo vessels in French Polynesia are commonly known as “goelettes”, a reference to the schooners that historically supplied remote islands under sail. Na Hiro E Pae is the first known multipurpose vessel worldwide to adopt a wind propulsion system, linking this maritime heritage with modern shipping through bound4blue’s eSAIL® technology.
The installation was carried out at Astilleros Armon Vigo, Spain, prior to the vessel delivery. Today, Na Hiro E Pae operates between Tahiti and the remote Austral Islands, transporting passengers, food supplies, and general cargo, providing a vital maritime lifeline for local communities.
Na Hiro E Pae delivers a rare mix of passenger comfort, with capacity for up to 200 passengers, alongside an essential and affordable transport link for students, families, and workers, and cargo efficiency, supporting fast loading and unloading operations for up to 1,500 tonnes of vital supplies for the South Pacific archipelago, making the project especially meaningful for the region.
In addition, bound4blue’s mechanically simple suction sail, producing up to seven times the propulsive force of a standard rigid sail of the same size, slots into a ‘green technology mix’ that includes engines capable of running on biofuel or e-fuel, electric POD propulsion, efficient waste management, and autonomy in fresh water supply. The development marks the first time an advanced Wind Propulsion System (WPS) has been installed on a multipurpose vessel of this kind, as well as the first time such technology has been deployed in the region.
It is, according to José Miguel Bermúdez, CEO and Co-Founder of bound4blue, “a significant step forward” in the roll-out of wind power.
Bermúdez said: “Multipurpose vessels have traditionally been seen as a challenging segment for wind power, due to the required flexibility of operations and related integration demands. This project demonstrates how systems suppliers, naval architects, shipowners, and other key stakeholders can solve such issues, collaborating closely to empower progress.
“We’re particularly pleased to have been selected alongside so many complementary technologies, providing a tangible example of how owners can combine solutions to optimize environmental and commercial performance. We hope Na Hiro E Pae leads the way for other ambitious shipping companies keen to unlock sustainable advantages.”
bound4blue’s single eSAIL® is expected to reduce energy consumption by approximately 10%, as well as helping improve the Cotenaval-designed vessel’s EEDI and CII performances.
The newbuild forms part of a broader effort to modernize maritime transport links serving the Austral Islands, while supporting sustainability goals and local economic development. The project previously received support through the French Polynesian Government’s Appel à Manifestation d’Intérêt initiative, recognizing its contribution to fleet renewal, regional connectivity, and environmental performance.
Boris PIEL, Technical Director, SNA Tuha’a Pae Shipping Company, said: “The completion of this installation brings us one step closer to welcoming a new generation of vessel into service for the people of the Austral Islands. Sustainability was a key objective throughout the design process, and the eSAIL® forms an important part of a wider package of technologies that will help us reduce energy consumption and environmental impact, while maintaining the reliable transport services our communities depend upon.
“This project demonstrates that innovation and practicality can go hand in hand. We are proud to be pioneering the use of wind propulsion on a vessel of this type and look forward to seeing the benefits delivered in operation.”
The development is the latest in a series of high-profile installations and contracts for bound4blue’s eSAILs®. The company has now deployed eSAIL® systems on 12 ships, with a further six vessels in its order book, representing more than 50 eSAILs® in total. The autonomous, non-ATEX units ease engine loads, cut fuel consumption (delivering up to double-digit savings), and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, delivering strong regulatory and financial benefits.
