MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique recently marked important milestones in the development of three World Class ships in Saint-Nazaire, France. With the delivery of MSC World America, the coin ceremony for MSC World Asia, and the steel cutting for MSC World Atlantic, key figures celebrated the innovative partnership and groundbreaking ships.
French dockworkers unions have decided to suspend their “dead port” strike planned for March 18 to ease tensions with the government. The strikes began in January over retirement reforms, including raising the retirement age. Dockworkers want exemptions due to the physical demands of their work. The unions will review progress on March 25.
France is deepening its maritime collaboration with Morocco, demonstrating its dedication to supporting Morocco’s maritime industry. The French ambassador highlighted Morocco’s crucial role in representing Africa and southern nations, promoting cooperation. At the Halieutis Fair, French companies showcased innovative solutions for Morocco’s blue economy. The partnership is reinforcing the strong bond between two countries.
France’s Mediterranean maritime authority successfully towed the disabled product tanker, Kriti Captain, to Marseille after an engine room fire. The Greek-operated tanker, carrying 25,000 tonnes of diesel fuel, docked in Port-la-Nouvelle for offloading and inspection. No injuries were reported, and the vessel’s safe arrival in Marseille marked a crucial step in the salvage operation.
The mayor of Nice, France, is pushing for a ban on large cruise ships in the bay between Nice and Villefranche due to concerns of overtourism and pollution. Christian Estrosi aims to limit ships with over 900 passengers or 190 meters in length, focusing on smaller, luxury vessels to preserve the city’s image.
A new patrol vessel with a wind-assisted propulsion system is revolutionizing maritime operations by reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This vessel combines traditional power sources with eco-friendly technologies like photovoltaic panels and active trim control for optimal performance at sea. With a focus on sustainability, it sets a new standard in the industry.
The Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration successfully freed vessels trapped on the Saar in France and the Moselle in Germany ahead of schedule. 78 emergency lock operations were completed in 10 days, with 72 vessels cleared. The lock is expected to reopen by early February, impacting regional transportation in Western Germany, Luxembourg, and France.
The vessel Sounion is undergoing an offloading operation near the Suez Canal in Egypt, aided by the tug Aigaion Pelagos and the tanker Delta Blue. Despite previous attacks on Delta Blue, the operation is progressing smoothly, with 150,000 tonnes of oil still to be transferred.
Anti-whaling activist Paul Watson, detained in Greenland and facing possible extradition to Japan, seeks political asylum in France. Founder of Sea Shepherd, he was apprehended for disrupting a Japanese ship in 2010. With a possible 15-year prison sentence, Watson denies allegations while his foundation pleads for asylum in France. Uncertainty looms as legal battles continue.
A group of environmentalists in Marseille, France, formed a human chain using small boats to block the port, drawing attention to the environmental impact of cruise ships and their connection to global warming. The demonstration, led by the group Stop Croisières and Extinction Rebellion, involved approximately 20 individuals who used canoes to block the entrance.
French authorities have confirmed the tragic deaths of eight individuals attempting to cross the English Channel from France to England. This follows the capsizing of a boat earlier this month that claimed the lives of 12 people. Both governments are under pressure to address the dangers of these crossings. Security measures are being enhanced to prevent further tragedies.
France has proposed a plan for the reconstruction and re-organization of the Port of Beirut, damaged by the 2020 explosion. The proposal includes repairing infrastructure, optimizing traffic flow, and transitioning to solar power. With costs estimated at $60-80 million, France and Germany are leading efforts to support Lebanon in rebuilding and modernizing the port.
