three MAsTER
LE FRANÇAIS
A traditional tall ship dedicated to the public good.
Support our mission
One tall ship. Two causes. One shared course.
As a mission-driven company, we dedicate our ship and our expertise to two core commitments: making sailing accessible to all through the Grand Voilier École association, and preserving a unique piece of maritime heritage.
Every contribution helps keep their sails full.
Grand voilier école
The Grand Voilier École association gives young people from all backgrounds the opportunity to experience life at sea aboard a traditional tall ship for the first time. On board Le Français, they discover life as part of a crew, learn the value of teamwork and develop a strong sense of responsibility through watchkeeping and sail handling. Whether for a single day or a longer voyage, every sailing experience becomes a meaningful journey of learning, solidarity and personal growth.
restoration
To continue sailing and fulfilling its mission, Le Français must undergo a major restoration programme. Nearly 80 years after her launch, the ship’s hull now requires extensive work to ensure her continued safety at sea and extend her operational life. This restoration is essential to preserve an exceptional piece of maritime heritage and pass on the traditional skills associated with it to future generations.
Le français :
A Unique Three-Masted Tall Ship
8,50M
47M
SAILS
tonS
CAPACiTiES
at sea
docked
895 M2
BARQUE
55.0596074, 10.6174691
From then to now
The remarkable story of Le Français
From the icy waters of Greenland to her present-day mission in the public interest, the ship has sailed through the decades. Renamed in honour of explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Le Français carries the legacy of traditional tall ships and the great maritime adventures that have shaped history.
To continue sailing and fulfilling her mission, Le Français requires a major restoration programme. This project is essential: by 2028, her hull will be 80 years old and must be preserved to ensure the ship continues to sail for generations to come. Every contribution helps protect this exceptional piece of maritime heritage and ensures it can be passed on to future generations.
INSPIRED BY LE FRANÇAIS
OUR COMMUNITIES
Le Français aims to be a living ecosystem, open to creators and everyone with a passion for the sea. Around the ship, several communities of artists and craftspeople find both a source of inspiration and a space for creative expression.
The official painters of Le FRANçAIS
The official writers of Le français
The wood community
Everything you need to know about Le Français
Can I make a donation to support Le Français?
Yes, and thank you! Simply head to our partner’s website, the Grand Voilier École association, to make your donation. You will be eligible for a 66% tax deduction (french tax reduction).
Can I visit Le Français?
Yes! Le Français opens her decks to the public during major maritime festivals and offshore race starts. To stay on course, keep an eye on our social media: we announce all visitor openings there.
Where is Le Français currently located?
Le Français sails with the winds and missions. You can track its position in real time using our interactive map.
What are Le Français's upcoming stops?
Find our full sailing schedule, upcoming ports of call, and future events on our dedicated page.
Why is the ship called Le Français?
Le Français pays tribute to Jean-Baptiste Charcot and his iconic three-masted schooner of the same name, with which he led the first French scientific expedition to Antarctica in 1903.