Dune Freighter

Powered by heavy winds and Sand Skaters, the Dune Freighters are the only vehicles to venture out into the hot, unforgiving deserts of Vardt. These vehicles stick to a primary trade route, hitting multiple villages delivering materials, food, water, and basic items needed to live in this arid environment.
Desert tribes and towns will often go months without seeing a new face, let alone a freighter carrying the next 6 months water supply!
Large vessels of Stonewood and metal. Large axles that support 6 wheels on either side of the craft are made of the same materials. Metal skids can be lowered onto the ground if the wheels lack the traction needed.
The barge typically does not stop or slow down until it reaches its destination. If the craft stops for too long the sand will start to build up around the wheels and frame, which can take up to a month to unearth (if there's not a sandstorm present.) The barge can be pulled by 4 Sand Skaters at one time. There are 12 Skaters on each voyage, in the event that there is no wind the skaters can be cycled out every 8 hours to maintain speed and let them rest.

Propulsion

Primary propulsion via sails mounted to the top of the craft. Secondary propulsion (for higher speeds or travel while wind is not present) supplied by Sand Skaters.

Hangars & docked vessels

There are 2 Distribution Pods on either side of the vehicle (4 total) that can be dispersed from the larger freighter to deliver into hard to reach areas, in the event that the freighter is either too large to fit into an area, or will disturb the sand around the settlement.

Class

Cargo/Freight

Manufacturer

Vardt General Transport

Owning Organization

Vardt General Transport

Rarity

Common

Speed

10-20 mph

Cargo & Passenger Capacity

Accommodates a crew of 12 people, 12 sand skaters, 200,000 gallons of water, and 10 tons of cargo.