We would like to draw the attention of all users to the risks of pollution generated by ships in the port.
In less than 2 months in 2025, we have already suffered 9 water pollution incidents, including 2 major ones, and noted a spill of black and grey water in the port waters.
The most recent spill, on 23/02/2025, mobilised 3 port agents for the entire day on Sunday 23/02/2024, 2 night agents for their entire shift from Sunday to Monday and is still being dealt with by the day team on Monday 24/02/2025.
We would also draw your attention to article R5333-28 of the French Transport Code concerning discharges of hydrocarbons or other organic or inorganic substances likely to harm the environment, to article L.216-6 of the French Environment Code and to the Port Grimaud special police regulations, which can be downloaded from the port's website and which specify (art. 24 ): ‘Any attack on the clarity and depth of the water, any dumping of grey water, black water, rubbish, household waste, earth, rubble, unhealthy liquids, hydrocarbons or any other matter whatsoever, on the public port domain or which could reach it, is formally prohibited’ ...
‘Every shipowner must keep the area of water, pontoon or quay at his disposal clean. If the Port Authority observes polluting discharges or deposits of waste, it reserves the right to clean up the area of water, pontoon or quay at the expense of the owner of the vessel responsible, in accordance with the tariff in force.
We would also like to remind you that these environmental offences are liable to prosecution, in addition to the mere invoicing of the costs incurred to the port authority: ‘A fine of €4,000 shall be imposed on any captain who, through carelessness, negligence or failure to comply with the laws and regulations, causes a polluting substance to be discharged’ (Environmental Code - Article L.218-19).
We therefore expressly ask you to check that the equipment on your vessels is clean and in good working order, and we remind you of your obligation to submit to any checks carried out by the port authority. A campaign to check that vessels are in good condition with regard to the risk of pollution will be carried out rapidly by the port authority.
Respect for the port's environment is everyone's business. Thank you for your understanding and your efforts.
