In 2016, nestled in the heart of Anse Aubran, on a disused industrial site owned by the city, Chantier Naval de Provence was established. At the time, it operated on a one-hectare site, where a custom-built dock and a 100-ton travelift were installed.
Seven years later, thanks to the support of the municipality, the shipyard has doubled its surface area by expanding onto a previously unused section of land belonging to the Grand Port Maritime de Marseille. A local success story, this development is the result of both a dedicated team and high-performance infrastructure. Today, the Port-de-Bouc shipyard is a trusted name among both leisure boaters and maritime professionals.
From Vision to Expansion
As early as 2017, management began upgrading the careening area to bring it up to standard. However, the COVID-19 crisis delayed progress. “It was a difficult time for us,” says Ludovic Richard, the shipyard’s director. “But once activity resumed and demand increased, we made the decision to expand.”
In close cooperation with local elected officials, a consultation and planning process was initiated to reach an agreement with the Grand Port of Marseille.
The new dry storage area was delivered in early 2024, effectively doubling the shipyard’s total space. While this new section is not yet equipped for careening (pending the installation of eco-friendly infrastructure), it already showcases a strong environmental commitment. “We use recycled materials wherever possible,” explains the director. The surface is made of 20 to 30 cm of slag, a by-product of industrial production, overlaid with stabilized gravel.
A Dedicated and Skilled Team
From day one, the site has been managed by a dedicated team. Eric and Dewe are in charge of hauling and launching vessels, moving boats across the yard, supervising careening equipment, and ensuring site security. They also carry out maintenance work upon request.
“We even have a maintenance contract with the Maritime Gendarmerie for their patrol boats,” they say. “We regularly host marine repair companies. Some stay for days or even weeks. They stay in local hotels — bringing real economic benefits to our town.”
The shipyard works with local businesses: the new cradles used to support boats were made by a blacksmith based in Port-de-Bouc.
A Hub for the Maritime Industry
“The expansion,” adds the director, “has allowed us to broaden our service offering — dry dock and berthing contracts for harbor barges, catamarans, fishing boats, pleasure craft, and even a construction team from the Atlantic coast doing on-site maintenance for their own clients. We’ve also just signed a contract with EDF Renewables for the maritime logistics related to future floating wind turbines. This will allow us to offer positions to our apprentices, and new job openings will follow.”
Growing Ecosystem of Maritime Services
Since the shipyard’s creation, complementary businesses have also set up nearby, including:
Easy Mer (chandlery & marine parts), a Volvo marine engine specialist, a rigger, marine carpenters, electricians, metalworkers, and more.
Customer Praise and Testimonials
Many visitors express high praise for the site, the warm welcome, the quality of the facilities, and the professionalism of the team.
Colin, first mate of the “Nomad IV”, a 30-meter sailing yacht undergoing winter storage, shares:
“We live on board. The boat can reach 32 knots and has navigated the globe over four consecutive years. This place is serious — great equipment, more peace and quiet than in a regular port, and all at a fair price. Plus, it’s ideally located near major road networks and the airport. With our deep draft, haul-out and movement are much easier here.”
The vessel, registered with the local Nautical Club since 1998, is currently undergoing hull repainting.
Paul, a Master Sailmaker based in Port-de-Bouc and owner of the sailboat “K”, adds:
“The price is very reasonable. The equipment and professional team are top-notch. This shipyard is a real success. Deep-water access, modern infrastructure, and friendly, competent staff — we couldn’t ask for more.”
Dominique and Jean-Luc, catamaran owners based in Martigues, praise the team during annual hull works: “This level of professionalism and service is rare in the boating industry.”
Edouard, owner of a 24-meter twin-keel sailing yacht, is also satisfied:
“The hull is smooth, the antifouling flawless, the superstructure freshly repainted, and the whole site is clean and well-managed.”