Algeria’s ENTMV Terminates Affreightment Contract with Moby Dada Amidst Persistent Technical Issues

✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | August 25th, 2024 — The National Maritime Passenger Transport Company (ENTMV), operating under the brand Algérie Ferries, has announced the termination of its affreightment contract with the Italian shipowner of the “Moby Dada.” This move follows persistent technical issues that have disrupted the summer sailing schedule. Mohamed Tayeb Abboud, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ENTNV, revealed the decision during a press conference in Algiers on Saturday.

Technical Malfunctions Prompt Contract Termination

Mr. Abboud explained that the contract was terminated due to recurring engine failures and persistent malfunctions with the vessel’s air conditioning system. These ongoing issues compromised passenger safety and necessitated the shift of scheduled voyages from the “Moby Dada” to the ferries Tassili II and El Djazaïr II. The “Moby Dada” had been chartered at the end of January to expand the fleet and accommodate increased passenger demand, particularly from the Algerian diaspora in Europe, for the 2024 summer season.

With the “Moby Dada” withdrawn from service, the ENTNV has reallocated travel arrangements to the Tassili II and El Djazaïr II ferries. Due to their limited capacity, the company has restructured passenger bookings, prioritizing families traveling in cabins. Passengers affected by the changes and relocated to the “Fauteuil” class will receive a 30% discount on future reservations, with the price difference from their original bookings refunded.

Adjustments and Customer Support

Mr. Abboud urged affected travelers to understand and cooperate with the necessary adjustments to ensure smooth operations. He assured that ENTNV is dedicated to addressing customer concerns and maintaining competitive pricing. He emphasized that the company’s rates are set to be 40% lower than those of national competitors.

Performance Review and Future Preparations

In addition to addressing the current situation, Mr. Abboud provided an update on ENTNV’s performance for the ongoing summer season. Since June, the company has conducted 173 sailings, transporting 146,000 passengers and 43,000 vehicles between Algerian ports (Algiers, Annaba, Skikda, and Oran) and destinations in Italy, Spain, and France. Despite the challenges, the ENTNV has achieved a 98% completion rate for its scheduled sailings, demonstrating robust operational performance.

Looking ahead, Mr. Abboud assured that high-level authorities, through the Ministry of Transport, are committed to ensuring a well-prepared 2025 summer season. Preparations are already underway to enhance service quality, including comprehensive repairs and maintenance of the fleet during the end-of-year period to ensure optimal conditions for the next summer season.

This proactive approach is aimed at resolving current issues and reinforcing ENTNV’s commitment to providing reliable maritime transport services.

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