Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Massalia

On December 13, 2025, a crucial medical evacuation was initiated by the CROSS Gris Nez from the French vessel 'Massalia', which was positioned 11 nautical miles south of Motril and heading eastward. In response to the emergency, the CCS Almería from Salvamento Marítimo dispatched the SAR helicopter Helimer 211 to the scene. The helicopter successfully hoisted the French national and promptly transported him to Almería airport. Upon arrival, an ambulance was waiting to take him to the hospital for further treatment, ensuring he received the necessary medical care swiftly.

The ferry formerly known as 'Normandie' is set to transition to a new identity as the 'Massilia' when Brittany Ferries officially transfers ownership to La Meridionale in April 2025. This strategic move coincides with the introduction of the 'Guillaume de Normandie' ferry, which will begin service on the Portsmouth-Caen route. Recently, the Normandie made a stop at Las Palmas de Gran Canaria during its delivery journey and is currently en route to Astander, anticipating its arrival on February 18. At Astander, it will undergo final preparations before entering its new role. Starting in June, the vessel will take over the route from Marseille to Tangier, replacing the current 'Pelagos', which has been sold to the Egyptian shipping company UME. This transition marks a significant shift in services offered by La Meridionale, enhancing its operational capabilities in the Mediterranean region.

On May 10, 2022, an unexpected medical emergency arose on board the 'Normandie' as a passenger experienced a significant health issue shortly before reaching Ouistreham. The attentive crew promptly reached out to the maritime medical consultation center (CCMM), which coordinated with the CROSS Jobourg. Following a thorough diagnosis, the CROSS assessed that a medical evacuation was necessary and immediately contacted the SAMU of Le Havre. In response, a specialized medical team was deployed to facilitate the urgent transfer of the passenger to Jacques Monod hospital in Le Havre. To expedite the operation, the CROSS also dispatched the Civil Security Dragon 76 helicopter to carry the medical team to the scene, ensuring rapid and efficient assistance.

On October 6, 2021, a critical medical situation unfolded when the CROSS Jobourg was alerted by the 'Normandie' ferry regarding a sailor in need of urgent evacuation from the fishing vessel 'Thieresa'. The incident occurred approximately 25 nautical miles northwest of Le Havre during a shell fishing operation. Responding swiftly, CROSS coordinated a conference call with the maritime medical consultation center in Toulouse and the SAMU in Le Havre, ultimately recommending an immediate medical evacuation for the injured crew member. The Dragon 76 helicopter, stationed in Le Havre, was promptly dispatched with a medical team ready to provide on-site assistance. The injured fisherman was successfully hoisted aboard the Dragon 76, where he received crucial first aid before being transported to a hospital in Le Havre for further treatment.