France’s celebrated heritage tall ship Le Français has completed a major refit ahead of her 2026 working season.
The 78-year-old, three-masted barque will appear at Le Grand Pavois La Rochelle in September.
Marine Évènements selected AkzoNobel to supply International coating products for the project.
The agreement covered protection both above and below the waterline.
AkzoNobel brought extensive marine experience and technical expertise to the demanding heritage project.
International Coatings Protect Historic Tall Ship
Teams carried out the refit across four French locations.
These included Saint-Malo, Concarneau, La Rochelle and Brest.
The project used a complete International coating system from primer through to topcoat.
AkzoNobel’s technical team also provided practical guidance throughout the work.
Their support helped crews manage extensive surface preparation and several separate coating stages.
The project demonstrated the breadth of the International marine coating range.
Products included antifouling for the hull and high-gloss varnish for wooden surfaces.
The team also applied premium topcoats to interior and deck areas.
Together, these products provide protection while maintaining the vessel’s traditional appearance.
Le Français Has Nearly 80 Years at Sea
Le Français began life in Denmark in 1948 as Kaskelot.
The Royal Greenland Trading Company commissioned the original vessel for commercial service.
Now measuring 47 metres, the tall ship carries 19 sails.
She represents a rare example of a working tall ship still operating with a crew.
Over almost eight decades, she has experienced the demanding conditions of Atlantic service.
Today, Le Français combines maritime heritage with education and environmental awareness.
Tall Ship Inspires Young Sailors
Marine Évènements manages Le Français from her base in Saint-Malo.
Through Grand Voilier École, the vessel introduces around 2,600 young people to the sea annually.
Her educational sailing programmes provide practical experience while encouraging interest in maritime life.
The ship also supports Témoins Polaires and its environmental awareness work.
The organisation highlights climate change and the vulnerability of polar ecosystems.
Le Français Ready for 2026 Season
Le Français returned to the water on schedule in Concarneau.
She now faces a busy programme of charter work and educational sailing.
The refit has refreshed her appearance while strengthening protection against future seasons.
Her International coating system should help preserve this important piece of maritime heritage.
The vessel will also bring that heritage to visitors at Le Grand Pavois La Rochelle.
