Overview
Chantiers de l'Atlantique at Saint-Nazaire is France's principal civilian shipyard and one of three world centres for cruise-ship building. Built the largest cruise ships ever delivered (Royal Caribbean's Icon class, Wonder/Oasis-class, MSC World Europa) plus French Navy auxiliary vessels and an increasing offshore-wind installation-vessel book. Owned by the French state via APE following the 2018 split from STX.
Key facts
- Saint-Nazaire, France
- Built world's largest cruise ships
- Royal Caribbean + MSC mega-class builder
- Active in offshore-wind installation
- French-state ownership via APE
Why it matters to seafarers
If you sail on Royal Caribbean Icon-class, Oasis-class, or MSC World class, your vessel came from Saint-Nazaire. The yard's standard build includes Wartsila or MAN-ES dual-fuel engines, GTT LNG bunkering, and Azipod propulsion — distinctive engine-room and ECR layout.