Christening of the ECO ZEPHYR in Marseilles

Eastaway France’s Eco Zephyr was officially christened on September 17 in the city of Marseilles! The General Directorate for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries, and Aquaculture attended the event.

This ceremony marks the return of this vessel—registered in the French International Register—to direct management by the French subsidiary of the X-Press Feeders group.

This innovative vessel combines performance with environmental responsibility. It exemplifies France’s commitment to a low-carbon, sustainable, and competitive maritime industry.

The decision by X-Press Feeders, a leading Singaporean shipping company, to fly the French flag is part of the effort to promote the RIF abroad.

The quality of the expertise, responsiveness, and constant commitment of the French maritime administration were major factors in this decision. As a division of the DGAMPA, the RIF offers international shipowners an attractive legal and tax framework as well as tailored support. It also guarantees high standards in terms of safety, seafarer protection, and ecological transition.

Eastaway France currently operates seven methanol-powered container ships flying the French flag. This is just the beginning, as three new vessels will soon join this fleet, confirming the appeal of the RIF and France’s role as a key player in the maritime sector!

Eric BANEL, Director General: “X-Press Feeders’ decision to fly the French flag is a strong endorsement of the quality of our maritime administration and the appeal of the RIF. With ships like the Eco Zephyr, we are demonstrating that economic performance and the green transition can go hand in hand. France is proud to support this momentum!”

Congratulations to Eastaway France, X-Press Feeders, and the DGAMPA teams on this collective success!