We have been keeping a close eye on the progress of MV Beluga Skysail for you. This hybrid Prius-of-the-sea has traveled the 11,952 nautical miles from Germany to Venezuela, the United States and Norway quite successfully. The completion of her maiden voyage marks the beginning of what the company feels is a "a new chapter in the history of commercial shipping." And with a demonstrated ability to achieve a 20 percent fuel savings, who are we to argue?

Not ones for resting upon laurels, the next phase of this pilot program is set to begin with the doubling of the size of the 160 square-meter SkySails which should result in twice the fuel and emissions savings. If that sounds ambitious consider that two additional larger ships are currently under construction that are to be equipped with 600 square-meters of sail. Arrr me mates, a re'olution be a'happenin'. Hit the jump for a little foreign language maiden voyage video action.

The KTM X-Bow is currently making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show but I tripped across this other, lesser known bearer of the same name and thought some of you may be interested. The Ulstein X-Bow is a ship designed using the same principles employed by the far-ranging Vikings. According to what I found, the X-shape of the hull helps reduce the drag and improve airflow around the vessel. Thus, fuel is saved, transit time is decreased, stability is increased. What more could you ask for in a big honkin' ship?

If you're in the market for a sweet ark, you might want to hurry because these things are flying off the shelves. Twenty are to be delivered over the next two years. Want to see this baby in some high sea action? Hit the jump for some video with a kicking sound track.

[Source: inventorspot.com and youtube]