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Caught between maritime heritage and commercial operations, Le Français faces a dual challenge: preserving a ship built in 1948 while keeping it seaworthy for its educational programs and commitments for 2026.
A refit carried out at several French ports
The French shipyard's work was not limited to a single dry dock or a single site. The projects were carried out in Saint-Malo, Concarneau, La Rochelle, and Brest.
This plan reflects the nature of a refit on a 47-meter vessel that is still in active service. The work must fit within the vessel?s operational schedule, with preparation, painting, and relaunching tasks distributed according to the capacities of the various sites.
The ship was finally launched in Concarneau on schedule, ahead of its sailing commitments for the 2026 season.
A ship built in 1948 that is still in service
The Français was built in Denmark in 1948 under the name Kaskelot for the Royal Greenland Trading Company.
Measuring 47 meters in length, this three-masted ship carries 19 sails and remains in active service today as a tall ship. It is based in Saint-Malo.
This ongoing operation requires a different approach than that of a ship restored solely for display. Each restoration project must preserve the ship?s character while enabling it to return to sea under conditions consistent with its schedule.
Educational use requires that the boat remain available
The Français is used as part of the Tall Ship Training Program. Approximately 2,600 young people set sail each year to discover the sea and learn about sailing.
The ship also supports Témoins Polaires, an organization that works to raise awareness about climate change and the fragility of polar ecosystems.
This activity underscores the importance of the maintenance schedule. A delay in construction can directly affect educational programs, scheduled voyages, and contractual obligations.
In particular, the Frenchman is scheduled to compete in the Grand Pavois in La Rochelle in September 2026.
