Cap Kersaint equipped with a 100 m² SeaKite®: a world first in the fishing industry
At Beyond the Sea, our goal is simple: to show that automated kite propulsion is not just a concept, it’s a real, ready-to-use solution that can help decarbonize maritime transport today.
And we have just reached an important milestone!
In partnership with CAP BOURBON, we have installed, for the first time ever, a 100 m² automated SeaKite® traction kite on a fishing vessel. The installation took place on the Cap Kersaint vessel, in November–December 2025.
This is more than a first: it proves that wind-assisted propulsion can meet the demanding operational needs of offshore fishing, even in some of the most remote and challenging areas on the planet, like the French Southern and Antarctic Territories (TAAF).
An adapated solution: built for Southern Ocean fishing
The Cap Kersaint is a nearly 60-meter-long austral longliner. It undertakes fishing campaigns of up to 90 days without resupply, facing extreme conditions throughout. This tough operational profile shaped every aspect of the SeaKite® design and integration. Kite propulsion was chosen by Tugdual Poirier, Director of CAP BOURBON, for several key reasons:
- Reliable and steady wind conditions
- Long transit phases where wind assistance makes the most difference
- Minimal footprint on deck
- Simple, robust integration with existing vessels
As Tugdual Poirier says:
Tugdual Poirier – CAP BOURBON’S DIRECTOR
“Beyond the Sea offers a straightforward, effective solution. Wind propulsion helps us reduce our fuel use while keeping full operational capability. It fits seamlessly onto an existing vessel and is a real step toward more sustainable fishing.”
Used mainly during transit, the SeaKite® supports the ship’s main engines. It reduces engine load, lowers fuel consumption, and cuts CO₂ emissions, all without changing fishing operations.
Promising first results
Early sea trials have been very encouraging:
- Direct reduction in fuel consumption
- Immediate and mechanical CO₂ emission reduction
These results confirm what we have been saying for more than a decade: wind propulsion is no longer experimental, it works in real-life conditions.
A shared vision for sustainable fishing
Already certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), the Cap Kersaint is reinforcing its role as a pioneering vessel for sustainable fishing. Tugdual Poirier adds:
Tugdual Poirier – CAP BOURBON’S DIRECTOR
“As a company committed to sustainable fishing, we need to explore and adopt innovative solutions to reduce our environmental impact. Equipping the Cap Kersaint with Beyond the Sea’s technology is a concrete step forward, it helps us operate sustainably while keeping our crew safe.”
This collaboration reflects a shared belief: economic performance, crew safety, and ecosystem protection can and must go hand in hand.
Strong momentum across the maritime sector
The project is supported by the CMA CGM Foundation, which aims to accelerate decarbonization across the French maritime industry. Full operational deployment of the SeaKite® is scheduled for April 2026.
Beyond this world first, our mission is clear: to make kite propulsion a viable option for fishing fleets worldwide.
Harnessing the wind to protect marine resources.
Balancing economic performance with environmental responsibility.
Showing that offshore fishing can fully embrace the era of decarbonized propulsion.
With the Cap Kersaint, we are not just adding a kite.
We are writing a new chapter in the maritime energy transition!
