We're working to transform the Apollonia into the Hudson Valley region’s largest carbon-neutral merchant vessel. Powered by wind and used vegetable oil, the Apollonia will transport her cargo to and from New York City sustainably. This is not a living-history project trying to make the past “come alive”. Instead, we are part of a growing sail-freight movement committed to proving cargo vessels are not only still relevant, but are in fact intelligent solutions. Our goal is in sight, so join us on the adventure.
PROJECTS IN PROGRESS
SAILS / RIGGING
We have a full suit of sails and we’ve made all of the booms and gaffs. In order to get Apollonia sailing, we still need two masts, all the standing rigging (the wires that hold them up, complete with turnbuckles and baggywrinkles) and all the running rigging (the lines that run our sails and all the blocks that let the magic work).
STRUCTURE / CARGO HOLD
The hull and superstructure need some work. The work includes: reinforcing mast steps, straighten a small part of the forward keel, improving hatches and port holes to ensure they are watertight, servicing all dogs and gaskets on the watertight doors, and quite importantly, building out our cargo hold and access hatch.
VEGGIE CONVERSION
Our Detroit Diesel powerplant will get a second fuel system to enable her to burn used vegetable oil. Although we'll be primarily under sail power, and when the time comes that we need to speed up to make a delivery deadline or maneuver safely in a busy harbor, we'll be proud to burn vegetable oil instead of diesel fuel. Conveniently, Sam does this work for a living.
NAVIGATION SYSTEM
We will purchase radar, depth sounders, and other tools for navigation. The Apollonia is no small boat, and keeping ourselves and others safe is a priority. Additionally, we will upgrade the instrumentation, and install solar panels to maintain the battery system and enable the boat to anchor safely, without shore power connected.
Most forms of transportation work against natural forces, using engines and machinery to overcome inertia, friction, and gravity, excluding the influence of the elements as much as possible. Moving in a sailboat depends on your harmony with the forces of nature; you're not overcoming the forces of nature, but moving with them.
- Jan Adkins The Craft of Sailing