Providing young people from diverse backgrounds with the opportunity to sail aboard a traditional tall ship.

Le Français and Grand Voilier École share a common purpose: using traditional sailing as a powerful tool for education, inclusion and the transmission of maritime knowledge. Together, we turn every voyage into a meaningful experience that leaves a lasting impression on the young people who come aboard.Le Français and Grand Voilier École share a common purpose: using traditional sailing as a powerful tool for education, inclusion and the transmission of maritime knowledge. Together, we turn every voyage into a meaningful experience that leaves a lasting impression on the young people who come aboard.

An association dedicated to inclusion and education

Grand Voilier École uses the unique and demanding environment of the tall ship Le Français to pass on essential human values. On board, young people from all backgrounds, as well as adults facing disability or social exclusion, discover life at sea and learn the fundamentals of traditional sailing. In response to the challenges of the 21st century, the association encourages responsible behaviour and fosters cooperation. The sea becomes a school of life where solidarity, teamwork and self-confidence are developed through shared experience.

11000

people welcomed on board since 2022

100

days chartered each year

Why Le Français?
A meaningful partnership

Le Français offers Grand Voilier École far more than a ship: it is a living piece of maritime heritage, with the capacity to welcome up to 100 people for day sails and 30 for multi-day voyages. Its three-masted barque rig and unique history provide an inspiring setting that enhances every experience. Together, this partnership brings traditional sailing and educational purpose together to benefit thousands of young people.

A voyage with Grand Voilier École
a human adventure

Open to everyone

Who comes on board?

Le Français welcomes a wide range of participants, including school groups, young people taking part in the French Universal National Service (SNU), people supported by local employment and guidance services, adults with disabilities, individuals in recovery, and people experiencing homelessness through the association Lazare.

Voyage after voyage, this diversity reflects Grand Voilier École’s commitment to inclusion and its core values of solidarity, mutual support and sharing.

A true member of the crew

Life on board

Whether for a single day or a multi-day voyage, participants are not simply passengers—they become full members of the crew. Under the guidance of professional sailors, they take an active part in manoeuvres, help hoist the sails, stand night watches and contribute to life on board. This fully immersive experience builds confidence, teamwork and lasting bonds.

More than a voyage

A life-changing experience

Life on board helps participants develop essential skills, including self-confidence, independence, responsibility and teamwork. Young people discover maritime careers, learn discipline and perseverance, and develop a deep respect for others and for the marine environment. These qualities become valuable assets throughout their personal and professional lives.

Support Grand Voilier École

Supporting Grand Voilier École means helping Le Français continue to sail and giving more young people the opportunity to experience life at sea—many of whom would otherwise never have access to it.

Your donation has a direct and measurable impact: a €6,000 donation (equivalent to €2,000 after the 66% French tax deduction, subject to eligibility) enables 100 young people to spend a day aboard Le Français. Every contribution helps fund educational voyages, professional supervision and the ongoing maintenance of the ship.

By donating, you open the sea to those who are far from it and help pass on maritime values to future generations. Every contribution makes a difference and helps keep Le Français under sail.