Despite objections from the Corsican Workers’ Union (STC), La Méridionale has confirmed that the ferry“Normandie”will be renamed“Massalia”. This vessel fromLa Méridionalewill operate the route betweenMarseilleand Tanger Medstarting inJune 2025.

A Choice Voted on by Employees

It will be neitherAzzureanorSperenza, but indeedMassalia. In a statement released onMarch 7, La Méridionale officially announced this choice, which was validated by a vote among employees. The shipowner emphasizes that this name pays tribute to theGreek origins of Marseilleand reflects its connection to the city. TheSTC, which criticized the decision as an “unacceptable affront” due to the lack of reference to Corsica, was not successful in its appeal.

Strengthening the Marseille – Tanger Med Route

It Will Be Neither Azzurea Nor Sperenza, But Indeed Massalia

TheMassaliawill replace thePelagos, which has recently been sold to an Egyptian company. With its156 additional cabins, it will increase transport capacity betweenMarseille and Tanger Medstarting inJune 2025. In the meantime, theKallistewill serve as an interim vessel until the end of May. This ferry, previously operated byBrittany Ferries, will be replaced on theCaen – Ouistreham – Portsmouthroute by theGuillaume de Normandie.

In this way, La Méridionale is reinforcing its commitment to theMarseille – Tanger Medroute, responding to the growing demand from travelers and transporters between France andMorocco.