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2024 Newsletter week 42

Oct 18
2

Don’t Stop the Zero-Emission Fast Ferry Revolution!

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The slogan comes from NCE Maritime CleanTech on Linkedin. What is it about?

The Norwegian government has postponed its plan to implement zero-emission requirements for fast ferries, a decision originally aimed at reducing emissions from these vessels by 2025. This has sparked criticism, with some calling it a “scandal” and “failure,” as the technology is already available. Critics argue the government should accelerate its green transition policies. Officials, however, cite technical and financial challenges, saying immediate implementation would incur high costs. The government’s climate goals are now under scrutiny, with a projected emissions cut of only 26.3% by 2030, far below the target of 55%.

Oct 18
2

IN THE MEDIA: “Grandes manoeuvres sur la Corse”

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An interesting editorial from Thibaud Teillard in French publication “Le Marin” (Linkedin) discusses the evolving dynamics within the Corsican ferry service sector, with a focus on potential changes involving key players like CMA CGM, La Méridionale, Corsica Linea, and Corsica Ferries.

Here are the key points from the article:

  1. CMA CGM’s Position in Corsican Ferry Services: After acquiring La Méridionale in 2023, CMA CGM remains in a secondary position in Corsica’s ferry service market, operating only two ships in the public service delegation, compared to five for Corsica Linea.
  2. Challenges with Routes: CMA CGM’s attempt to launch a Toulon-Île-Rousse line failed after six months, partly due to competition and a strike at Corsica Linea, which disrupted the balance of the public service delegation (DSP).
  3. Plans for a New Route: Despite setbacks, La Méridionale discreetly filed a request in June 2024 to open a Toulon-Bastia route from January 2025. This would directly compete with Corsica Linea’s Marseille-Bastia route, raising concerns within Corsica Linea.
  4. Potential Acquisition of Corsica Ferries: Rumours are circulating that CMA CGM might be considering the acquisition of Corsica Ferries. Discussions between the companies’ leadership have taken place, and CMA CGM is already familiar with Corsica Ferries through a joint investment in the start-up Neoline.
  5. Pierre Mattei’s Perspective: Pierre Mattei, the head of Corsica Ferries, is reportedly open to the idea of a sale, as Corsica Ferries faces challenges with fleet decarbonisation and a potential shift in its operating model. Although no deals have been signed yet, negotiations are reportedly progressing.
  6. Corsica Ferries’ Unique Business Model: Corsica Ferries operates under an Italian flag and has a different social management structure compared to French companies, which may complicate any potential acquisition. However, the company’s future remains uncertain, as Mattei, now 60, might be considering stepping back.

The article explores the potential shift in the Corsican ferry service landscape, with CMA CGM aiming for a stronger foothold through a possible acquisition of Corsica Ferries

Oct 18
2

The Construction of the Autonomous Fjord1 Ferries Has Started

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On Friday, 11 October, Fjord1 reached a significant milestone as the construction of the autonomous ferries for the Lavik-Oppedal route kicked off with the steel cutting for the first vessel at the Tersan Shipyard. These ferries will be the first in the world to operate entirely independently, without human intervention.

The ferries’ autonomy will handle everything from departure, crossing the fjord, and docking, to fully automated on- and off-boarding operations. All activity will be closely monitored from Fjord1’s new control centre in Florø, ensuring safe and efficient operations.

All ferries are scheduled to be delivered in the first half of 2026.