Wind power
The SKS-Y-System comprises three main elements:
Instead of a traditional sail fitted to a mast, SkySails uses large towing kites to propel the ship forward. Their shape is similar to that of a paraglider. The towing kite is made with high-strength, waterproof fabrics.
SkySails can operate at an altitude of 100 to 300 m, where stronger, more stable winds prevail. The tractive forces are transmitted to the yacht via a line made of very high-strength synthetic fibers.
The launch and recovery system is installed on the foredeck and it manages the lowering and deployment of the kite wing. During launch, a telescopic mast unfolds the kite wing while lifting it. Once it is at a suitable altitude, the wing unfurls completely and can be launched. A winch releases the towing rope until operating altitude has been reached. The recovery process is performed in reverse order.
The launch and recovery procedures each take about a total of 10 to 20 minutes.