AISTER begins construction of Chartwell Marine’s new ferry designed for SPM Ferries’ Saint-Pierre & Miquelon ferry service
Chartwell Marine’s new ferry design for Newfoundland-based operator SPM Ferries has entered construction following the successful keel laying of the vessel at AISTER’s shipyard in Spain.
The new ferry, which is due to launch and enter service in 2027, has been designed specifically for the rural island community of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. It will replace Jeune France, providing a modern and reliable connection between Saint-Pierre and the neighbouring island of Langlade.
The new ferry has been developed specifically for the route, where challenging waters and location creates a demanding operating environment. Access to Langlade presented a particular challenge due to the island’s limited shoreside infrastructure, while the development of extensive new port facilities risked disrupting its remote setting and character.
Chartwell spent a year developing the design in close collaboration with SPM Ferries and the Territorial Collectivity of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. This included a visit to the islands to experience the route and operating environment first-hand, working directly with local stakeholders. This gave Chartwell a clear understanding of how the ferry needs to perform in practice and what matters to the people who use it.
The resulting vessel, named JANOT, will be capable of carrying up to 100 passengers, as well as cargo and an emergency vehicle. To enable the local community to travel safely to and from Langlade without the need for new port infrastructure, Chartwell developed a bespoke bow ramp. This feature will allow passengers and cargo to move directly between the vessel and beach, opening up the journey to all, including those with reduced mobility and ensuring the whole community can continue enjoying the island.
Christophe Rident, Senior Naval Architect at Chartwell Marine said: “Spending time in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon allowed us to see how important this connection is to the community and understand the particular demands placed on the ferry. Langlade is a unique place, and we wanted to provide SPM Ferries with a vessel that works with the realities of the route rather than requiring the island to adapt around it.
“We made sure this understanding fed through into the design process and really appreciated the trust SPM Ferries and the Collectivity have placed in Chartwell, as well as their close involvement throughout. Reaching this milestone is an exciting moment for all of us involved, with construction now progressing quickly at AISTER’s shipyard. We’re looking forward to seeing the vessel take shape over the coming months.
Bernard Briand, President of the Territorial Collectivity of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, said: “Seeing the vessel’s structure taking shape is a particularly rewarding and pleasing moment, following over a year of hard work and close collaboration with Chartwell Marine to develop the vessel’s design. Chartwell’s cooperation and expert support since the start of the project have allowed the Collectivity and the team at SPM Ferries to remain fully involved, and with construction now underway, we are another step closer to serving our community.”
The ferry’s hybrid propulsion system has been selected with its operating environment in mind. It is IMO Tier 3 emissions-compliant and capable of operating on full electric power. This will reduce noise and emissions close to the community, while helping to minimise disruption to local flora and fauna and preserve the islands’ unique natural environment.
