Yachting Art Magazine

Sailing and maritime heritage - The century-old three-masted sailing ship will arrive in the Norman city from 26 to 29 June to mark Caen's 1,000th anniversary celebrations, combining maritime heritage and popular festivities.

As part of Caen's millennium celebrations, the Belem will be taking centre stage in the festivities when it docks in the city on 27 and 28 June. This historic sailing ship, one of the oldest still in service, is sure to attract curious visitors and heritage enthusiasts alike. The ship's arrival will be accompanied by several highlights, including a large nautical parade and tours open to the public.

The three-masted ship is expected to arrive on the afternoon of 26 June, after sailing up the canal linking Ouistreham to Caen. It will make this symbolic entry with a crew of 48, before returning to its berth in the city at around 3 p.m.

On 27 and 28 June, visitors will have the opportunity to discover this iconic ship free of charge. Free tours will allow visitors to explore the decks and facilities of the Belem, a living testimony to France's maritime heritage.
The event will culminate on 29 June with a nautical parade bringing together 47 other boats from the municipalities of the Caen urban community. The Belem will lead the flotilla along the canal towards Ouistreham before continuing on to Lion-sur-Mer, offering a spectacle that can be seen from the beaches of the Côte de Nacre.

Built in Nantes in 1896, the Belem has had several uses: merchant ship, British private yacht and then training ship. Acquired by the Caisses d'Épargne in 1979, it has since been maintained and operated by the Belem Foundation. The foundation ensures its preservation and educational role, with the ongoing support of the Caisses d'Épargne, which has been committed to promoting maritime heritage for more than four decades.