Davie and Pearlson Join Forces to Revitalize Shipbuilding in Quebec

Strategic Partnership for Shipbuilding Excellence

Chantier Davie Canada Inc. (Davie) has taken a significant step towards enhancing its shipbuilding capabilities by entering into a partnership with Florida's Pearlson & Pearlson Inc. This collaboration, announced on December 10, 2024, signifies a critical shift in Davie's construction strategy to align with Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) and respond to the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact).

Transforming Lévis into a Shipbuilding Powerhouse

This new agreement is a landmark moment for Davie, marking its transition into North America's premier shipbuilding facility. The modernization of the Lévis site is a multi-faceted project aimed at constructing seven heavy icebreakers and two hybrid ferries as part of the NSS. As James Davies, the President and CEO of Davie, stated, "Partnering with Pearlson will ensure our facility is more than ready to meet the high demands of building the most powerful and advanced icebreakers in Canadian history."

Pearlson is well-established in the shipbuilding sector, having worked with several leading companies like BAE Systems and Fincantieri Marine Group. Their expertise in shipyard design and program management aligns seamlessly with Davie's vision of innovation and operational efficiency, paving the way for a revitalized shipbuilding industry in Canada.

Project Scope and Investment

The construction strategy outlined in this partnership includes the development of six cutting-edge buildings, alongside refurbishing five existing ones. Additional plans encompass major waterfront upgrades and the creation of a new assembly hall and launch pad. A crucial aspect of the modernization is the upgrading of utility infrastructure and installing sophisticated overhead travelling cranes to facilitate the construction of ship modules.

The Québec government plays a vital role in this project, providing $519 million in financing as part of an overall $840 million expansion budget. Davies remarked, "This vital support reflects the confidence in Davie's ability to lead the shipbuilding renaissance from Québec."

Enhancing Technology and Sustainability

In alignment with the NSS, the upgrade initiative will incorporate state-of-the-art technologies designed to enhance efficiency and environmental sustainability in shipbuilding. The project aims to strengthen Canada's sovereign capabilities while fostering collaboration with U.S. and Finnish allies, particularly in light of the recently established ICE Pact.

The initiative is projected to yield significant economic benefits at various levels, from local to national. It is expected to create numerous jobs during the construction phase and expand Davie's operational workforce to 1,800 upon completion. Furthermore, the project emphasizes sustainable practices by incorporating green technologies into shipbuilding and repair operations.

About Chantier Davie

Founded in 1825, Davie has established itself as a leader in designing and constructing specialized ships, including icebreakers and ferries, for both governmental and commercial purposes. As a proud partner in Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy since 2023, Davie has committed to building technologically advanced ships that meet contemporary maritime challenges. In November 2023, the company further expanded its expertise by acquiring Helsinki Shipyard, reinforcing its position as a world leader in icebreaker design and construction.

For more insights on Davie and its projects, visit davie.ca and helsinkishipyard.fi.