La Ciotat Shipyards (Chantiers Navals de La Ciotat)
Managed by the SEMIDEP-Ciotat Local Public Company, La Ciotat Shipyards is a global leader in the refit and repair of superyachts.
The site operates under a unique management model that combines the stability of public ownership with the operational agility of a private structure. Since its strategic repositioning in the mid-1990s, the facility has transformed from an industrial shipbuilding site into one of the most significant hubs for large yacht maintenance in Europe.
The shipyard captures approximately 8% to 10% of the global market, hosting around 150 yachts annually. Notably, about one hundred of these boats exceed 50 meters in length, representing roughly one-seventh of the world’s superyacht fleet.
This high volume of activity is supported by exceptional industrial equipment and a cluster of specialized resident contractors and operators recognized worldwide for their technical expertise.
Strategically located within 100 nautical miles of the French Riviera, the shipyard offers several key advantages:
- Specialized Infrastructure: Modern facilities designed specifically for the servicing, maintenance, and complex refit of large yachts.
- Strategic Management: A partnership-based policy that allows for long-term strategic development while remaining reactive to market requirements.
- The “Old Harbor”: In addition to the refit yards, the site manages a marina in the heart of the city with 700 berths and 300 dry storage spaces.
- Global Reputation: A strong international standing built on a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and high-quality craftsmanship.
By integrating traditional maritime heritage with cutting-edge technology, La Ciotat Shipyards continues to drive the reindustrialization of the region, making it a cornerstone of the Mediterranean yachting industry.
