Discover the Kalliste: Ratings & Maritime News

Corsica Linea has successfully completed the acquisition of the ferry 'Kalliste' from La Méridionale, which is slated to undergo a transformation into 'Capu di Maru'. This vessel, previously under threat of being dismantled in Turkey, will be integrated into Corsica Linea’s fleet after undergoing essential refit works. With a service history spanning over 30 years, the ferry primarily operated on the Marseille-Corsica routes, including Propriano and Ajaccio, while also being chartered occasionally by Corsica Linea. Since October 2025, it has been idle in Marseille amidst plans for its potential demolition due to industrial disputes and fleet optimization efforts. Corsica Linea's social and economic committee has sanctioned the purchase, reportedly for around four million euros. Following a technical maintenance stop at the Chantier Naval de Marseille—with plans for repainting in the line's distinct red colors and upgrades—the ship is projected to be operational by late April. Additionally, Corsica Linea is contemplating the charter of La Méridionale’s ferry 'Massalia' for the upcoming autumn season. Notably, the former 'Normandie' was acquired from Brittany Ferries at the close of 2024, further enhancing Corsica Linea’s service capabilities.

On January 15, 2026, La Méridionale officially announced the decommissioning of the 'Kalliste' ferry. This iconic vessel, known for its long-standing service on the Marseille-Corsica route, has been sold to Sok Denizcilik, a Turkish shipbreaking yard recognized by the European Union. Recently, the 'Kalliste' was transitioned to the seasonal Marseille-Nador route, but it has remained in Marseille since October due to a reorganisation strategy by La Méridionale. In just a few weeks, this beloved ferry will depart from the maritime scene, marking the end of an era for the company and its passengers.

On February 28, 2025, the ferry 'Kalliste', en route from Tanger-Med to Marseille, encountered a medical emergency while navigating approximately 33 nautical miles east of Alicante. The vessel urgently requested assistance for a passenger requiring medical attention. In response, the Central Coordination Centre (CCS) of Salvamento Marítimo in Valencia swiftly deployed the SAR helicopter Helimer 223 to the scene. The helicopter successfully hoisted the patient and expedited their transport to the helipad at the Hospital de la Fe for further treatment. For the full report and accompanying images, visit https://x.com/salvamentogob/status/1895534966588805529.

Early on the morning of October 28, 2023, the vessel 'Kalliste' urgently called for a medical evacuation involving a passenger and their companion. In response, Spain's maritime rescue service, Salvamento Marítimo, swiftly dispatched the SAR boat 'Salvamar Spica' (MMSI: 225987262). The rescue team successfully retrieved both individuals and transported them to the port of Almería. Upon arrival, the patient received immediate medical attention and was subsequently transferred to a local hospital for further care.