Fincantieri and the French owner Compagnie des Iles du Ponant (CMA CGM Group) have signed a preliminary agreement to build 2 super luxury ships. By adding this new brand to its customer portfolio Fincantieri has further consolidated its presence in the promising business segment of small and medium luxury ships. The two ships will be similar in size to mega yachts, a ship type Fincantieri has recently started developing and which is now achieving its first commercial successes.
The 10,500-ton ships, which will fly the French flag, will be approximately 140 metres long and 16 wide. Passengers will be accommodated in 134 cabins and suites - all with external view - and 75% of which with a private balcony. Delivery is due in the first six months of 2010.
The ships will be built also with due regard to environmental concerns, an important issue since their reduced scale will enable them to reach harbors and destinations inaccessible to larger vessels.