France: Navalu’s New Building to Double Its Capacity

Due to increased demand, Navalu, builder of high quality aluminium work boats in France, is breaking ground for a new, larger building that will double its capacity.

With order books full, and a demand for larger, innovative vessels, Navalu will begin construction of an extension to their existing building. Ground breaking begins in March and the building will be ready to occupy in September.

Navalu’s existing building, which allows the construction of five hulls of 20 metres x 7 metres with six welding posts and a machine shop, was inaugurated in 2007. The new building will allow Navalu to build two 30 metre by 9 metre vessels side by side with an additional 6 welding posts. Two overhead cranes will allow easy movement of material and large structures.

Navalu already has an order for two 24 metre boats for the new building. One will be started immediately. The second will be started in six months to allow for an efficient rotation and rate of production.

Navalu owner, Mr. Bernard Minguet, says, “We are extremely pleased with this next step that will allow us to meet the increased demands. We are well known in France and now our efforts to reach the export market are paying off.”

[mappress]
Offshore Wind Staff, February 24, 2012; Image: Navalu