The Atlantic Ocean has become the backdrop for two remarkable journeys emphasizing sustainable transport and philanthropy. This week, the latest endeavor by French startup TransOceanic Wind Transport (TOWT), the world’s largest cargo sail ship, the Artemis, arrived on New York's shores after successfully completing its maiden voyage from Le Havre, France.
The Artemis is not just any cargo ship; it boasts gigantic 52-meter-tall masts and sails covering over 2,100 square meters, allowing it to cruise smoothly at average speeds of about 11 nautical miles per hour. While this may be below the speed of traditional cargo vessels averaging around 14 nautical miles per hour, it’s the environmentally considerate approach turquoise oceans allow where the true benefit lies. According to TOWT’s CEO Guillaume Le Grand, the Artemis reduces carbon emissions by over 90% compared to conventionally powered cargo freighters. "Our carbon footprint is between five and 10 kilos [per person], compared to around a ton of CO2 if you get a plane [from Paris to New York]," he said, highlighting the importance of sustainable travel alternatives.
The opening of passenger cabins onboard the Artemis caters to those seeking low-carbon travel options across the Atlantic, adding to the growing trend of eco-friendly tourism. With trips set to commence regularly starting March, the company aims to bridge the gap between shipping and passenger ferrying, allowing families to travel comfortably on their vessels.
Passengers aboard the Artemis will share the ship with its crew, living alongside hundreds of pallets filled with sustainably sourced goods. The pricing for such journeys starts at €2,550 ($2,675), which includes accommodation, meals, and internet access, with no luggage restrictions - what air travel often limits. Yet prospective travelers must remain flexible; crossings typically take between 15 to 20 days, with longer durations to some Caribbean locations. Passengers can expect their arrival dates to shift depending on weather conditions, reinforcing the ethos of adventure inherent to sea voyages.
On another front across the Atlantic, adventurer Gerhard Moolman has completed his own remarkable mission. Setting sail on December 1, 2024, from Cape Verde, Moolman rowed solo for 37 days, reaching Cayenne, French Guiana, on January 7, 2025. His 4,020-kilometer expedition served not only as a personal challenge but raised funds for the Door of Hope, the charity dedicated to shelter and education for abandoned children.
"It’s not only about me but about Door of Hope and its vitals work to provide shelter, nourishment and education to abandoned babies and children," Moolman declared. His heartfelt campaign aims to inspire community involvement for this cause, showcasing how altruistic endeavors can breathe life and awareness to society’s pressing issues.
Utilizing his customized rowing vessel named the Osiyeza, Moolman employed advanced mechanics transforming it from surf ski to rowboat. He crossed ocean waters, facing physical and technical challenges, including leaking issues and navigation mishaps. Moolman said, "The estimated time for the [Moolman’s] ocean crossing was initially 45 days, so arriving on day 37 was a massive success for me," signifying not only his determination but also the extensive preparation preceding the trip.
Through physical exertion meeting engineering prowess, Moolman’s achievement provides dual joy—his personal gratification alongside the far-reaching benefit to the Door of Hope. Kathy Groome, the donor engagement manager at Door of Hope, expressed gratitude, stating, "That Gerhard Moolman chose the Door of Hope as the organisation to raise funds for means the world. We are grateful his crossing has brought awareness about abandoned babies and children."
The juxtaposition of TOWT's cargo ship initiatives alongside Moolman's brave expedition reinforces the rising consciousness surrounding sustainable travel across the Atlantic. Both endeavors present accessible, eco-conscious ways to engage with the sea, inspire community involvement, and prioritize the planet alongside meeting human needs. With growing demands for eco-adventures, these innovative proposals are paving the way for transformative change within maritime transport.