HGK Shipping And Covestro Extend Partnership With Wind-Powered Vessel Upgrade

In a strong move toward sustainable maritime logistics, HGK Shipping and Covestro have extended their long-standing partnership until 2040. As part of this renewed commitment, the Amadeus Titanium, a liquid coaster operated exclusively for Covestro, will be retrofitted with VentoFoils—a wind-assisted propulsion system designed to cut fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

The upgrade is set to take place later this year, aligning with both companies’ shared goals of achieving greener, more efficient shipping.

VentoFoils to Boost Energy Efficiency

The VentoFoils system, developed by Dutch firm Econowind, uses active airflow technology to optimize wind propulsion. These vertical wing-like structures adjust automatically to wind conditions and can save up to 10% in fuel while significantly lowering CO₂ emissions. The Amadeus Titanium will undergo preparation work during a scheduled drydock in September 2025, with full installation expected by year-end.

Decades of Collaboration with a Green Focus

HGK Shipping has partnered with Covestro for over 80 years, providing maritime and inland waterway logistics solutions. Since October 2020, the Amadeus Titanium—originally a dry coaster now converted to a chemical tanker—has operated exclusively for Covestro on European short-sea routes. Under this service agreement, Amadeus Schiffahrts- und Speditions GmbH, an HGK subsidiary, manages vessel operations.

The partnership’s recent renewal emphasizes the companies’ shared commitment to resource efficiency, logistics innovation, and environmental stewardship.

Broader Strategy and Fleet Innovation

This isn’t HGK Shipping’s first step in wind-assisted shipping. In 2024, the company introduced Amadeus Saffier, a diesel-electric wind-powered short-sea vessel, into its charter fleet. Built by Holland Shipyards Group, the ship and its sister vessel Amadeus Sardius represent HGK’s growing investment in alternative propulsion and cleaner maritime operations.

Alongside Econowind, technical partner De Bock Maritiem will also contribute to the Amadeus Titanium upgrade, ensuring seamless execution of the retrofit.The extension of the HGK–Covestro partnership and the upcoming VentoFoils retrofit of Amadeus Titanium mark a notable advancement in sustainable shipping. With wind-assisted propulsion joining an expanding fleet of eco-conscious vessels, both companies are reinforcing their leadership in green logistics and taking tangible steps toward net-zero maritime operations across Europe’s short-sea routes.