El AstilleroVerde – SAILCARGO Inc based on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica made the first frame of their vessel, the 148-foot (45-meter) long tallship, Ceiba, completely by hand. This highlights the beginning of the construction of the three masted square-topsail schooner, which is designed to carry cargo along the west coast of the Americas.
Ceiba aspires to be the turning point for Costa-Rica’s maritime industry by providing a carbon-negative alternative to conventional shipping.
Specifically, the hoisting of the first frame was accomplished with the use of ropes rigged to keel, hanger and hand.
According to the company, this is the first full frame located just aft of the bow and is fixed together by hardwood tree-nails of Tamarindo del Monte which are wedged in place.
The company’s aim is to have a new frame each week for the year following, reaching overall 56 weeks of putting all 56 frames together and attached to keel.
Moreover, Ceiba will ran using the wind and a 100% electric engine which will charge all of the ship’s own energy, functions as both a propulsion system and a generator whilst sailing.
The engine will be combined with modern batteries and solar panels so that all auxiliary power is renewably sourced.
Concluding, Sailcargo opted for Costa Rica for the project because of its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2021 and its favourable geographic position and business environment.
