Working Conditions Aboard the Ruby-Express

In an unexpected turn of events, the 'Ruby Express' is set to return to Germany in July 2024 after proving too costly to operate in the Caribbean. Initially intended to provide essential maritime services between Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, and Saint Lucia, the vessel's prohibitive operational expenses have prompted FRS Express des Iles to reconsider its strategy. On February 1, 2025, the company's CEO, Onick Deravel, disclosed that the ship's operational costs exceeded early projections by 20%, diverging from the company's competitive pricing agenda. Measuring 60 meters in length and 16.5 meters in width, the 'Ruby Express' encounters significant maneuverability challenges at the ports it serves, leading to extended operational times. Its dimensions limit safe harbor options; in case of mechanical issues, only Martinique can accommodate the vessel, while necessary hull cleaning procedures require anchoring at Saint-Louis Bay in Guadeloupe. FRS Express des Iles has yet to recover the substantial investments associated with bringing the 'Ruby Express' into service, which included expenses related to the transatlantic delivery from FRS's German headquarters, fuel costs, maintenance, and staff training. The deployment of the 'Ruby Express' has, however, allowed FRS to upgrade its existing fleet, refurbishing the three other ferries - 'Gold Express,' 'Perle Express,' and 'Corail Express' - with completion anticipated by June 2025. Given the soaring costs of new vessels, the company does not plan to refresh its fleet in the near future. Shortly, the 'Ruby Express' will make its way back to FRS's base in Germany.