CMA CGM wins bid for Marseilles dry dock

CMA CGM wins bid for Marseilles dry dock

CMA CGM has been selected by its hometown Port of Marseilles Authority as the winning bidder for a project to develop Europe's largest dry dock.

   The project will comprise two main parts. Firstly, the overhaul and development of ship repair operations of dock 10 so that it expands in length to 465 meters with 10 hectares of wharf area and a 17 meter draft; and the creation of a Yacht Port area in L'Estaque equipped with nearly 130 slips that can accommodate yachts up to 100 meters long. The marina designs include a hotel resort, shopping amenities and a yacht repair yard.

   CMA CGM said the project will take two to three years to complete and once operational will generate 800 jobs. The company will also seek, whenever possible, the cooperation of local companies in developing the dock, which it said will “significantly contribute to the revitalization of Marseille's image as a thriving hub of industry and tourism.”

   It will also guarantee the company dry dock capacity for its fleet of 380 vessels — 101 owned — and 77 newbuilds on order.

   “This project reflects CMA CGM Group's dedication to promoting the image of Marseilles, historic home of CMA CGM since 1978, as an economic and maritime powerhouse,” the company said in a statement. “Finally, the project offers the perfect opportunity for CMA CGM to expand and add a new dimension to its tourism and cruise operations, which are already flourishing, led by its subsidiary La Compagnie des Iles du Ponant.