Maritime transport in the Mediterranean is entering a new era with the launch of RL Héloïse, the first passenger-carrying foil catamaran in Europe. On Thursday, February 13, in Saint-Mandrier, the company Riviera Lines unveiled this groundbreaking vessel, designed to operate routes between Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
Measuring 26 meters long and 9 meters wide, the catamaran can accommodate up to 350 passengers. Its key innovation lies in its carbon foils—submerged wing-like structures that reduce drag and allow the vessel to slightly lift above the water. Borrowed from aeronautics and used in only a handful of ships worldwide, this technology cuts fuel consumption by 30 to 50%.
Designed and built in southern France, RL Héloïse is the result of a collaborative effort among several local companies. The naval architects from Mer et Design in Sophia Antipolis crafted its sleek lines, while the engines were supplied by Baudouin in Cassis. The biofuel powering the vessel is provided by Fioul83 in La Crau, and the ship itself was constructed by Transmétal Industrie in Saint-Mandrier. The only exception: its foils, which were manufactured by Strato Compo in Gironde.
During the launch ceremony, the Arnal family, owners of Riviera Lines, upheld tradition by naming the vessel after a family member. Following Charlotte and Victoria, it was Héloïse—just two and a half years old—who lent her name to this new vessel. Her 18-year-old brother, Mathias, carried out the symbolic christening by smashing a bottle of champagne against the bow, officially marking the catamaran’s entry into service.
With this latest addition, Riviera Lines reaffirms its commitment to modernizing its fleet with more eco-friendly solutions. The company, which transports 300,000 passengers annually, is already planning a second, smaller vessel for routes to the Lérins Islands. Designed to carry freight and 200 passengers, this new ship is expected to be operational by July.
Set to enter service in May, RL Héloïse—the first foil catamaran of its kind in the Mediterranean—could pave the way for a new generation of faster, more efficient, and environmentally conscious vessels.
