A traditional tall ship dedicated to the public good.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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).
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.
Le Français sails with the winds and missions. You can track its position in real time using our interactive map.
Find our full sailing schedule, upcoming ports of call, and future events on our dedicated page.
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.
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