Oman’s state-owned logistics firm, Asyad Group, has just launched the “Sohar Max” – a behemoth of a cargo ship fitted with wind-powered rotor sails that mark a step-change in sustainable shipping.
We’re talking about a 400,000-ton carrier now riding on the wind. Literally. The “Sohar Max” is fitted with five towering rotor sails, each standing 35 meters tall. These spinning cylinders harness wind energy to assist propulsion, reducing the vessel’s fuel consumption by about 6% and slashing annual CO₂ emissions by 3,000 tons. That’s a big deal when you’re moving hundreds of thousands of tons across oceans.
This isn’t just a tech flex. It’s part of a broader strategy aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and the global push toward decarbonizing shipping. The tech was rolled out in collaboration with Anemoi Marine Technologies and mining giant Vale, which has also backed three more sister vessels: Shinas Max, Liwa Max, and Saham Max. Sohar Max is the first of the fleet to get the wind treatment.
These rotor sails aren’t fixed in place, either. They’re mounted on a folding system, allowing the crew to lower them horizontally during port calls or when squeezing under low bridges. That kind of adaptability matters in real-world conditions, where tight docking windows and varying route heights can throw curveballs at fixed hardware.
Dr. Ibrahim bin Bakheet Al Nadhairi, CEO of Asyad Shipping, put it bluntly: “Wind propulsion technology is an opportunity to bring about a real revolution in the shipping sector.” It’s not just about emissions; it’s also about improving operational performance. This is where the business case meets the climate case – and that’s where real change sticks.
The timing is no accident. With the International Maritime Organization (IMO) tightening carbon regulations and aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050, early movers like Asyad are staking out competitive ground. Ships like the “Sohar Max” aren’t just green—they’re future-proof.
Nasser Al Azri, CEO of Vale Oman, highlighted the vessel’s role in strengthening global logistics efficiency. “The ‘Sohar Max’ reflects our commitment to developing eco-friendly logistics solutions… and supports our operations in Oman.” The vessel belongs to the Vale Max class – designed for long-haul, heavy-load voyages linking Brazil, China, and the Middle East. That’s a lot of ocean, and every gust of wind used for propulsion matters.
