- Since November, the Belem's winter overhaul is being carried on in the Saint Nazaire Dockyards, taking on a new dimension : the sanding of the whole surface of the hull... This equivalent of a “ shock treatment ” takes place regularly every ten years – the sand blasts away at the steel surface, exposing it completely so as to reveal any possible flaw or damage. It meant a fortnight of ear-splitting noise and flying dust for the few members of the crew left on board under the orders of their new Captain, Commander Joël Guena.
The next vital stage will be when the Belem is submitted to a thorough examination by the Veritas Bureau. The Bureau's seal of approval is essential for the Belem – without it, the ship cannot be certified sea-worthy. Only then will she be ready to take on her next big adventure – to be revealed right here, so read on !

 

- Great news for the 2008 summer season ! The Belem will be crossing the North Atlantic, no less, to take part, as honoured guest, in the celebrations due for the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec. The city was founded by the French navigator Samuel de Champlain, a native of Brouage, South of La Rochelle. He crossed the Atlantic on board another three-masted barque, the “Don de Dieu” (God's Gift). At the end of a month's crossing which will include sailing, like Champlain, up the mythical Saint Laurent River, the Belem will reach Quebec on July 2nd. Next day, she will be part of the official festivities, after which she will stay berthed in Quebec for nearly a fortnight, open to visits from the public.
Details on this exciting new voyage will be available in the next few weeks.

You can however consult our preliminary proposals on our website now : click here