Court considers legality of berth occupation

The administrative court in Tahiti is examining whether it is legal for ships to occupy berths at the Papeete Autonomous Port without proper authorization. The port manager is seeking to clear berths that have been occupied without permits, but some ships have nowhere else to go.

Public rapporteur proposes fines and deadlines

The public rapporteur at the court suggested ordering the Taporo VII, a cargo ship, to leave its berth within 60 days, with a daily fine of one million francs if it does not comply. Similar proposals were made for several other ships owned by the SNC Degage et Cie.

Taporo VII has been stranded since 2022

The Taporo VII, owned by the Compagnie française maritime de Tahiti (CFMT), became stranded at the Motu Uta berth in March 2022 after filling with water. It was salvaged in April 2022 but has not returned to sea, blocking a coastal berth the port obtained in June 2025.

CFMT argues no alternative exists

The CFMT's lawyer argued that there is no suitable place in Polynesia to move the ship, which is nearly 80 meters long and 15 meters wide and no longer seaworthy. He warned that forcing the ship to leave could lead to it sinking, a risk the authorities are aware of.

CFMT claims ship's condition is due to human error

The lawyer also claimed the ship's condition was due to a human error, not neglect, and that it was well-maintained by the DPAM. He argued that leaving it in the port was the only technically and economically viable option, though he admitted there is no short-term solution.

Six other ships also face expulsion

Six additional ships are moored at the Motu Uta berth, including old cargo ships and a catamaran. The port has issued multiple notices and obtained a ruling allowing for daily fines of 100,000 francs if they remain.

Defendants cite verbal authorizations

The shipowners of these vessels argue they were given verbal authorizations to stay, but the public rapporteur stated that such authorizations cannot be implicit. The rapporteur proposed ordering their departure within 45 days with fines, but suggested rejecting the request for the Le Haumana catamaran.

Degage Group criticizes port management

The Degage Group, which owns some of the ships, criticized the port for not having enough berths and for managing informally. It accused the port manager of mismanagement and not respecting the law, arguing that the situation raises questions about the port's legitimacy.