We are excited to announce out latest Design Concept which will be available to build later this year. Watch this space. 🙂
Developed for Steven Woods of Bay State Sail Freight, the TradeSailer 120 is a purpose-built aluminium sailing cargo vessel and the smallest model in our fleet.
This Bermudan ketch-rigged monohull has been designed for simplicity, efficiency, and commercial viability. Easy to build, straightforward to maintain, and operable by just two crew, the TradeSailer 120 offers an accessible entry point into sustainable sail freight operations.
With a hull length under 12 metres and a gross tonnage below 15 GT, no “formal” mariner’s qualifications are required in many jurisdictions, making it an ideal vessel for start-ups or for proving the feasibility of a selected trade route.
Principal Specifications
- Length overall (LOA): 13.6 m
- Length over deck (LOD): 11.9 m
- Length waterline (LWL): 11.65 m
- Beam (moulded): 3.35 m
- Depth: 1.92 m
- Draft (hull): 1.00 m
- Draft (max): 1.90 m
- Displacement: 23 tonnes
- Deadweight (DWT): 8 tonnes
- Gross Tonnage (GT/GRT): 14
- Cargo Volume: 18 m³
- Sail Area: 80 m²
General Arrangement
Deck Layout
The flush main deck features a raised coachroof that functions as both hatch coaming and access to a shallow bosun’s store for sails, lines, and fenders.
A semi-enclosed deckhouse provides essential protection for year-round operations while maintaining excellent visibility. Roof hatches ensure ample ventilation and allow a clear view of the sail plan during manoeuvring and passage.
The accommodation below deck is compact, efficient, and purpose-driven.
Two private cabins beneath the cockpit seating offer comfortable off-watch retreats. A small galley, navigation desk, and combined toilet/shower provide all essential amenities. A fold-up table with hinged seating creates a practical space for meals, meetings, or passage planning.
All onboard systems are fully electric, including an induction cooktop and hot water system. The hot water service is integrated with the engine cooling circuit for optimal energy efficiency.
Naval Architecture
The hull lines have been carefully developed by CATRAN naval architects to reduce resistance and enhance seakeeping performance. A relatively narrow beam contributes to efficiency, while a moderately full midship section with controlled deadrise ensures stability and load-carrying capability.
A fine entry forward and clean run aft improve hydrodynamic performance and propeller efficiency.
The vessel is equipped with a keel for improved windward performance and a balanced spade rudder. Both keel and rudder utilise NACA foil profiles for enhanced lift-to-drag efficiency under sail.
Cargo Handling
The raised coachroof incorporates two sliding cargo hatches, creating a 1.5 m × 2.0 m opening suitable for standard Euro-pallet cargo.
A derrick-style crane, supported by the mizzen mast, provides a Safe Working Load (SWL) of 250 kg, enabling efficient and independent loading and unloading operations.
Build Options
The TradeSailer 120 is offered as a comprehensive building kit, complete with detailed construction documentation. It is suitable for experienced home builders as well as (small) shipyards seeking to enter the sail freight market.
For further details, technical documentation, or ordering information, please contact us directly.
TradeSailer project 