A Brest stopover rich in emotion
On 10 August last, the Hermione arrived in Brest, putting an end to her 4-month American voyage in the footsteps of the Marquis de La Fayette. Arriving with fanfare, welcomed by nearly 15,000 people and 400 boats, she stayed there for a week, for an incredible stopover.
During the week, 172,000 people came to admire the boat and 12,500 visitors walked on the deck of the boat. At the quayside, many visitors came to stroll along the quays and stroll through the village alleys ashore, despite the capricious weather. About 2000 people were able to enjoy the arrival and departure shows, on boats set up by the organisation.
A stopover that will remain forever engraved in the memories of all those who have taken part in the Hermione adventure over the last 20 years. All the sailors involved in the adventure also took the opportunity to tell their stories, memories and anecdotes. And once again, the enthusiasm of the public was very real.
"Thank you Brest! They gave us an exceptional welcome on land and at sea. It was grandiose. It's a great pride for all of us, members of the association and the crew to have been received in this way." said Benedict Donnelly, President of the Hermione La Fayette Association.
Monday morning, at 9 o'clock, the Freedom Frigate set sail again for Bordeaux. But it was only a goodbye, not a farewell, as she will be back in July 2016, for the Fêtes Maritimes in Brest.
Heading for Bordeaux
From now on, Bordeaux will welcome the ship for her last port of call, before her return to Rochefort, her home port. She will arrive on August 20th at the port of the Moon, after a trip up the Gironde. This last port of call should also be an emotional one, before bringing this great inaugural voyage to a close.
The Hermione is expected in the Gironde estuary this Thursday at 5:30 am. After passing in front of Pauillac and under the Jacques Chaban-Delmas bridge, she will dock at the Port de la Lune on the pontoon of honour at 11:30 am. From 3 pm, the public will be able to come and visit the boat. From Friday 21 August to Tuesday 25 August, it will be open to the public from 9 am to 6.30 pm. On Wednesday, August 26th, visits will take place from 9 am to 3 pm before the frigate's departure.
The ship will set sail shortly before 5 pm to meet up with Rochefort on Saturday 29th August for a major nautical parade.
