The Hermione frigate in Rochefort

The replica of theHermione boat famous French warship of the 18th centuryillustrates the epic story of the Marquis de La Fayette, en route to the United States to support the American Revolution. It embodies the endurance of Franco-American friendship and the excellence of French maritime craftsmanship.

This document invites you to discover the captivating history of theHermioneand the trials and tribulations she is destined to face in 2023. How did this wooden vessel, carefully crafted in Rochefortin Charente maritimehas it managed to defy time and tide? What role does it play in education and culture today?

Explore with us the next explorations and the logistical challenges of theHermione in a fast-changing global context. Come aboard theHermionethe frigate of freedom!

A maritime heritage in the face of time and modernization

Conservation and restoration of the Hermione

L'Hermione is a jewel of our maritime heritage that requires constant vigilance for its preservation. Launched in 2014, this frigate has already sailed over 30,000 nautical miles, marking its presence at numerous nautical events.

However, in 2021, examinations revealed a fungal attack compromising the Hermione's wooden structure.

To protect the Hermione, the Hermione-La Fayette association has launched a vast restoration program in Anglet, in the port of Bayonne. The budget, set at 10 million eurosThe aim of the project is to replace 40 cubic meters of damaged wood, representing 7 % of the frigate's total weight. To achieve this, the association is calling on both specialist companies such as Asselin and the commitment of dedicated volunteers.

The aim is to put the Hermione back on the water in 2024, so that she can once again promote French culture and history around the world.

Adapting to new environmental standards

The Hermione, with its authentic eighteenth-century construction, is also to be aligned with the contemporary environmental standards which govern maritime navigation.

It is therefore committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, reducing its impact on marine biodiversity and managing its waste in an environmentally-friendly way.

To this end, the Hermione-La Fayette association has developed a series of measures, including the application of eco-friendly paintsthe use ofrenewable energy and raising awareness of environmental challenges among crews and visitors alike. In this way, the Hermione aspires to be a model of balance between safeguarding our heritage and protecting our planet.

The Hermione's educational and cultural mission in 2023

Promoting maritime and historical heritage

L'Hermione is not just a ship, it's also a powerful transmission symbol from France's maritime and historical heritage. This frigate illustrates a significant chapter in Franco-American history, that of the American Revolution and the intervention of the Marquis de La Fayette.

It also highlights the ancestral know-how craftsmen and maritime carpenters, who have succeeded in rebuilding this marvel of the 18th century.

To promote and enhance this rich heritage, the association Hermione-La Fayette offers a variety of initiatives, including guided tours, exhibitions, lectures, events and shows. From free educational resources are also available for teachers and students, covering themes such as navigation, the marine imagination and the Age of Enlightenment. The Hermione is revealed in a dynamic teaching toolto arouse the curiosity and interest of young people.

Involvement in educational and scientific projects

L'Hermione also stands out for its commitment to educational and scientific projectsto raise awareness of the challenges facing the world today. In 2018, it took part in the Normandie Liberté operation, marking the 75th anniversary of the Normandy landings, and welcomed young people from various countries to discuss peace and freedom.

In 2023, l'Hermione will embark on a new adventure the project Hermione 2023a circumnavigation following in the footsteps of famous explorers such as Bougainville and La Pérouse. This journey will be an opportunity to develop educational and cultural initiatives with the countries they visit, and to engage in research programs on marine biodiversity, climate changeor plastic pollution. L'Hermione sails in the service of knowledge and education. international cooperation.

New adventures and logistical challenges in a changing world

Travel and event planning in the pandemic era

L'Hermionea ship passionate about discovering new cultures, has seen its plans disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic since 2020. Health restrictions and precautionary measures have reduced travel and gathering possibilities, forcing the ship to reinvent its programming.

For example, his shipping in Northern Europeoriginally scheduled for 2022, has been postponed to 2023 in response to uncertainties linked to the health crisis. The voyage, named "Hermione - Explore France", will showcase France's heritage and forge stronger links with neighboring countries. L'Hermione will be stopping at a number of renowned ports, including London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Stockholm and St Petersburg.

In the meantime, the Hermione continues to organize cultural and festive events, while scrupulously adhering to health protocols. In particular, she made her presence felt at the European Heritage Days in September 2021, offering tours and activities on board. A concert by Celtic rock band Soldat Louis also drew over 2,000 spectators at quai de Bayonne.

Technology at the service of traditional navigation

L'Hermione honors the tradition and maritime expertise of the 18th century, while embracing the advantages of the modern world and technology. She is a perfect example of the fusion of ancient charm and modern comfort.

Thanks to its satellite geolocation systemThe Hermione can navigate with precision and share her position in real time. Her high-speed Internet connection enables her to maintain lively communication with her public and the media, regularly sharing videos, photos, articles and podcasts about her adventures.

Active on social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagramand YouTubel'Hermione enjoys a large community of followers. She also puts technology to good use in education, offering online training open to all. These courses cover the fundamentals of traditional navigation and extend to more specialized modules including meteorology, astronomy and safety at sea.

Conclusion

The Hermione represents a landmark chapter in maritime history French and American. She embodies an exceptional heritage, the fruit of the genius and passion of the craftsmen who built her and who perpetuate her history. L'Hermione symbolizes much more than just a ship; she is the heart of a human, cultural and scientific adventure that continues to unfold with the project Hermione 2023an ambitious circumnavigation of the globe.

If the story of the Hermione captivates you, there are several ways you can support this marvel. You can join the association Hermione-La Fayettededicated to preserving and promoting the ship.

Voluntary contributions are also welcome; they are crucial to financing the ship's restoration and its worldwide voyage. Visiting the Hermione during her stopovers or when she's docked allows you to immerse yourself in her world, her navigation and her history.

What's more, the unique experience of coming aboard the Hermione as a volunteer gabier offers you the opportunity to take an active part in maneuvering the ship, guided by a professional crew.

Consult the Hermione-La Fayette association website to discover all the useful information, news, educational resources and contact details for joining us. Don't miss your chance to be part of the adventure! Hermionethe frigate of freedom!

Practical information

• Address:Hermione - Place Amiral Dupont, 17300 Rochefort
  
   
• Opening hours:
  
  • September 2 to October 20, 2024: open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 12:30pm and 2pm to 6pm (last admission 5:30pm)
  • Rest of the year: open Wednesday to Sunday, 2pm to 6pm (last admission 5:30pm)
• Closing: December 25 and January 1
• Price list:
  
  • Open house:
    
    • Adults: €12
    • Young people (6-16 years): €5
  • Discovery & History" guided tour:
    
    • Adults: €18
    • Young people (6-16 years): €9
  • Grand Carénage" guided tour:
    
    • Adults: €18
    • Young people (6-16 years): €9
• Reservations: It's advisable to book your visit online, especially during high season. You can do so on the Hermione website: https://fregate-hermione.com/
• Access:
  
  • By car: Rochefort is about a 2-hour drive from Bordeaux and Nantes.
  • By train: Rochefort station is served by TER trains from Bordeaux, Nantes, Saintes and La Rochelle.
  • By bus: Bus routes link Rochefort to many towns in the region.

Visit

The tour of the Hermione lasts around 1h30. You'll discover the ship's decks, the officers' and crew's rooms, the hold and the arsenal. Permanent and temporary exhibitions trace the history of the Hermione and the French navy in the 18th century.

Advice

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat if you visit the Hermione in summer.
• Don't forget your camera to immortalize your visit!

Website

For more information, please visit the Hermione website: https://fregate-hermione.com/es/

FAQ

Where is the Hermione currently located?

Currently, the boat the Hermione is in Grand Carénage in the port of Bayonne in Anglet. The operation includes a major restoration of the hull, damaged by fungus.

Visits to the boat and repair shops are available on request. open to the public.

When does the Hermione return to Rochefort?

L'Hermione returns to Rochefort the June 24, 2021 after a stay in dry dock at La Rochelle. The ship will be open to visitors from June 26, 2021 in the Arsenal des Mers.

Why is the Hermione in Bayonne?

The presence ofHermione in Bayonne is due to a crucial repair of its shell, damaged by fungus. The choice of port of Bayonne is explained by its dry dock infrastructure, adapted to the specific needs of the boat.

Which boat replaced l'Hermione in Rochefort?

The Hermione's replacement in Rochefort is the Noéa replica of a XVIIth century engaged in the exploration of New France. He reached Rochefort on January 22, 2023 to begin restoration work on two years.

Hermione Bateau - Discover the famous replica of the frigate at Rochefort in Charente Maritime

Things to remember: Hermione , boat at Rochefort 

C'is a replica of a French warship of the same name, a three-masted frigate built at the Rochefort arsenal. Hermione bateau' is the expression used to describe the original frigate, as well as its replica.. She is the result of a project launched in 1997 and completed in 2014, the aim of which was to build an identical replica of the original frigate. It is possible to visit the Hermione, which is located near the Corderie Royale in Rochefort.

The ship is made up of over 400,000 pieces of wood, and sails with over 2,000 m² of sails.

Hermione , history of the boat and its replica

L'Hermione (the original) was a scout shipThis ship, lighter and more maneuverable than a warship, was built in Rochefort at the end of the 18th century. The ship left Rochefort in 1780 to take part in the American War of Independence, with the Marquis de La Fayette on board and the Comte de Tréville, known as Latouche, in command.Tréville.

He arrives in Boston and disembarks the Marquis de La Fayette to announce the arrival of reinforcements to Washington. He took part in a number of battles - the Battle of Cape Henri, the Battle of Louisbourg, the Battle of Yorktown - in a manner that was to prove a great success.will become a symbol of American friendship, to be known as the "Freedom Frigate".

Hermione and battles

Battles also include Trafalgaraccording to the account in Les Gloires maritimes de la France :"The army set to work: the campaign that was to culminate in Trafalgar began. (...) Aboard this frigate - the Hermione - he took part - the part reserved for frigates in my pitched battles - in the battle of July 20, 1805 against Admiral Calder's English squadron, and in the far more bloody and decisive battle of Trafalgar, on October 21 of the same year. The Great War was now off-limits: until August 19, 1808, Chateauville took the Hermione on various cruises along the coast of Africa and in the West Indies. No incident worth reporting seems to have marked these laborious campaigns."

Near the Hermione - the boat - is the Corderie Royale, not to be missed.. Further on, you can cross the Charente on the Martrou transporter bridge.

Photos of the Fregate L' Hermione boat in Rochefort

According to Marine magazine, the story of the first Hermione frigate began in 1778: 

"She was part of a series of four light, fast and maneuverable frigates: the Concorde, the Fée, the Courageuse. 65 meters overall length, 11.46 meters maximum beam, 56.50 meters air draft, nearly 5 meters draft, 1500 square meters of sail area, and 26 cannons firing 12-pound cannonballs."

As for the replica, its story begins in 1994, and is not without its challenges:

“The project was officially launched in 1994 with the aim of revitalizing the arsenal, which was closed in 1927. The symbolic laying of the first timber took place on July 4, 1997, the anniversary of American independence."

The challenge was to respect the original as closely as possible, while complying with modern building standards.

How could we respect the original work as faithfully as possible, a puzzle of 400,000 pieces of wood and metal, while complying with current regulatory constraints such as fire detection, water evacuation and navigation electronics? The construction involved over 100 companies from 25 different trades, from sailmakers, carpenters and engine builders to blacksmiths and electricians."

Hermione historical boat - To go further...

Who is the Marquis de La Fayette?

The Marquis de La Fayette: A Visionary of Liberty

The Marquis de La Fayette, whose full name is Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, is an emblematic figure who has left an indelible mark on history. Born on September 6, 1757 at the Château de Chavaniac in Haute-Loire, France, La Fayette is known for his unwavering commitment to freedom, democracy and human rights. In this article, we delve into the life and political legacy of the Marquis de La Fayette, highlighting his remarkable achievements and lasting influence.

Youth and Training

La Fayette was born into an aristocratic family and received a classical and military education. From an early age, he showed an interest in the ideals of liberty and equality, influenced by the Enlightenment ideas driving 18th-century Europe. At the age of 16, he joined the French army, where he developed his military skills and his passion for social justice.

Commitment in America

In 1777, La Fayette decided to join the cause of American independence. Inspired by Republican ideals and the fight for freedom, he crossed the Atlantic to offer his services to General George Washington. Quickly promoted to the rank of major general, La Fayette played a crucial role in several decisive battles of the American War of Independence, contributing to the colonists' victory over British forces.

Return to France and the French Revolution

Returning to France in 1781, La Fayette received a hero's welcome and quickly became a leading figure in the reformist movement. He was elected deputy of the nobility to the Estates General of 1789, and played a key role in drafting the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. As commander of the National Guard, he tried to reconcile republican ideals with constitutional monarchy, but his efforts were hampered by growing political tensions in France.

Captivity and Exile

After the fall of the monarchy in 1792, La Fayette found himself at odds with the radical factions of the Revolution. Fearing for his life, he attempted to flee to Belgium, but was captured by the Austrians and imprisoned for five years. Released in 1797, he lived in exile in Europe until he was allowed to return to France in 1800.

Heritage and Influence

La Fayette left a lasting legacy as a defender of republican ideals and human rights. His commitment to freedom and democracy inspired generations of reformers and activists around the world. His name is associated with universal values such as liberty, equality and fraternity, and his political influence continues to resonate in the modern world.

the Marquis de La Fayette was a visionary of freedom and a tireless defender of human rights. His courage, determination and conviction in the cause of justice have left an indelible mark on history, reminding us all of the importance of fighting for a better world. His political and moral legacy continues to inspire future generations, and his name will remain forever etched in the annals of history.

Hermione bateau - The battles in which the frigate took part

The battle of Cape Henri

The Battle of Cape Henri, also known as the Battle of Fort Duquesne, was a crucial confrontation in the Seven Years' War in North America, fought on September 14, 1758 near what is now Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Pitting British forces commanded by General John Forbes against French and Amerindian troops, the battle saw a decisive victory for the British, enabling them to capture Fort Duquesne and consolidate their control over the region, paving the way for British colonial expansion in western Pennsylvania and beyond.

The Battle of Louisbourg

The Battle of Louisbourg, a major event in the Seven Years' War, took place from June 8 to July 26, 1758, on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. Pitting British forces led by Major General Jeffrey Amherst against French troops commanded by Chevalier de Drucour, the battle marked a turning point in the North American conflict. Thanks to a well-orchestrated siege and a powerful naval fleet, the British succeeded in capturing the impregnable fortress of Louisbourg, consolidating their hold on the continent and paving the way for further victories in the region.

The Battle of Yorktown

The Battle of Yorktown, a decisive turning point in the American War of Independence, took place from September 28 to October 19, 1781, near Yorktown, Virginia. The battle pitted American forces, commanded by General George Washington, and Franco-American forces, led by French General Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, Comte de Rochambeau, against British troops under General Lord Charles Cornwallis. Thanks to an effective siege and strategic coordination between ground troops and the French fleet, the Allied forces succeeded in encircling and capturing the British, forcing Cornwallis to surrender. This decisive victory led to Britain's recognition of American independence and marked the end of the American War of Independence, paving the way for the creation of the United States of America.

The Battle of Trafalgar

The Battle of Trafalgar, a memorable naval confrontation in the Spanish War of Independence, took place on October 21, 1805 off the coast of Trafalgar, Spain. Pitting the combined French and Spanish fleets against British forces under the command of Admiral Horatio Nelson, the battle was a defining moment in the Napoleonic Wars. Thanks to daring strategic maneuvers and tactical superiority, the British fleet won a crushing victory, destroying much of the enemy fleet and ending the French naval threat in the Atlantic. Unfortunately, this brilliant victory was marred by the death of Admiral Nelson, who fell in battle while leading his men to victory. The Battle of Trafalgar remains a remarkable example of naval courage, sacrifice and bravery, and its impact endures in world maritime history.