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SeaKite® – the kite propulsion system for merchant vessels

Published on 28 October 2025

Maritime transport: an economic pillar that needs transformation

Maritime transport is a key player in international trade. If the merchant navy were considered a country, it would be the sixth-largest CO2 emitter in the world.

90% of global goods trade
3% of global CO2 emissions
100,000+ merchant vessels in operation

To meet the climate targets set by the Paris Agreement and the strategies of the IMO (International Maritime Organization), decarbonizing maritime transport is no longer an option: it is a priority.

IMO Targets for 2050

Diagram of IMO targets

In response to the climate emergency, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set out an ambitious roadmap for the global maritime sector. It calls for a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, a 70% reduction by 2040, and an ultimate goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

These targets are not just intentions:, they must gradually become benchmark standards for all stakeholders in maritime transport, both public and private.

The SeaKite® system: a fully automated wind-assisted propulsion solution for shipowners

Beyond the Sea positions itself as a driving force in this transition. By offering an adaptable and immediately available kite traction technology, we provide shipowners and charterers with a concrete solution to start decarbonizing their fleets without delay. Our systems enable a significant reduction in emissions starting today, without waiting for future breakthroughs or requiring major structural changes to implement.

With this technology:

  • Vessels can reduce fuel consumption by up to 40%, depending on wind and navigation conditions.
  • CO₂ emissions are significantly reduced, contributing to the achievement of international climate targets.
  • The solution can be immediately installed on existing vessels, with no need for major redesign or extended technical downtime.

This technology is built around three key advantages for commercial vessels:

Designed for retrofits and new builds

Our system can be easily installed on existing vessels without requiring major modifications.

Optimized performance

Kite technology is far more efficient per surface area than other wind-assisted systems thanks to its flight altitude and dual operating modes (static and dynamic).

Robust and compact

Developed to withstand the most demanding marine environments, it remains reliable even under complex navigation conditions.

Kite traction is an immediately operational solution offering a short return on investment, 2 to 3 years, depending on the vessel and operating conditions.

SeaKite®: the alliance of wind, mechanics, and onboard intelligence

The SeaKite® is a kite propulsion solution designed for medium and large professional vessels: cargo vessels, military vessels, research vessels, industrial trawlers, and offshore service boats. What are the key components of the SeaKite® system?

SeaKite system diagram

The Platform and KiteBox
(hardware)

A mechatronic module installed on board, enabling automated deployment, control, and recovery of the kite. Compact and durable, it can be easily integrated on different deck configurations.

The HMI
(software)

An intelligent routing system that optimizes the ship’s trajectory according to wind conditions. It provides assisted navigation, accessible to any crew, with measurable energy savings.

Kite wing
(propulsion)

A large, fully automated wing that harnesses wind energy to partially replace engine propulsion, thereby reducing fuel consumption and associated emissions.

In summary

SeaKite® is an adaptable, non-intrusive solution that can be installed in just a few weeks following a technical assessment. Compatible with all types of vessels, both new builds and retrofits, it can be deployed without extended downtime. SeaKite® is therefore a turnkey, sustainable solution, perfectly suited to shipowners’ operational constraints.

A solution already tested and validated by key maritime players

The Beyond the Sea technology is already in operation on several vessels, thanks to trusted partnerships:

Les Abeilles

Les Abeilles / French Navy

A strategic collaboration to validate the operational use of kite propulsion on state support vessels.

Ultranav

Ultranav / Beyond the Sea

Working together to reduce emissions and decarbonize maritime transport at scale.

Cap Kersaint

Cap Kersaint

Cap Bourbon, a subsidiary of the Le Garrec Group, has announced the installation of a full-scale 100 m² SeaKite® system on the Cap Kersaint longline fishing vessel based in La Réunion by the end of 2025.

Le Forbin Geogas

Le Forbin, Geogas

In May 2025, Beyond the Sea installed a 500 m² SeaKite® on the Forbin, an LPG tanker operated by Geogas Maritime, managed by Gazocean, and chartered by TotalEnergies.

Let’s discuss your fleet’s needs together

Our team of experts is here to answer all your questions about the SeaKite® traction system and its integration into your fleet.

Simply fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

📞 +33 6 08 72 92 73
✉️ seakite@beyond-the-sea.fr