Life on board Belem

by #TEAMSPORTLAPOSTE

Belem, the last surviving 19th century French trading ship, represents France and its maritime traditions at tall ship gatherings and international events (Odyssée 2002 - Brazil and the West Indies -, Quebec 2008, Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II and the 2012 Summer Olympics in London). In 2014, Venetians celebrated the return of Belem/Giorgio Cini to La Serenissima.

As the last three-masted French barque still under sail, Belem provides a chance to experiencewhat it is like to be on board a major 19th century tall ship with square sails. From standing at the helm to using a sextant, and, for the bravest among you, climbing up the mast, you will dive into a world of traditional sailing and take part in every aspect of on-board life.

The days spent on board are split into quarters. Since each quarter has its own specific characteristics, you will be able to get involved both day and night. Whether you are climbing up to the yards to secure the sails, steering the ship from the famous Belem helm, polishing the copperware or baking the bread to help your crewmates start the day with a smile, there are many activities that need tending to that are sure to turn your time on board into a valuable life experience.

The crew will also take the time to talk you through more theoretical aspects of being on board. You will take a specific look at studying the ship's long history, deciphering a nautical chart and creating a sailing route and taking a closer look at the rigging.

Become a Belem crew member and take part in The Tall Ships Race!

The Chief Mate draws up the timetable for each third, who take it in turn to occupy all of the work stations, under the supervision of the appointed sailor. A crew of 16 professional sailors for the Merchant Navy will supervise you around the clock. Crew members are tasked with sharing their knowledge and love for traditional sailing.

The Tall Ships Race is an incredible event. You will be under race conditions and, with all of your help, perhaps Belem will win the La Corogne and Dunkerque leg.
Take up the challenge!

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Testimonies from
the Gazelles at sea

"It's day two of our voyage on board Belem. Expanses of sea stretch as far as the eye can see. It feels as though we are the only people in the world.” Marine

"The human adventure I have experienced is like no other – travelling for ten days at sea on a 57-metre boat from Nantes to Galway with participants and sailors is a life experience I'll always cherish." Laura

"Belem, you have enabled us to surpass ourselves as we climbed your impressive masts, you let us experience our childhoods again as we watched dauphins play, you have made us appreciate the real values of teamwork, and you have enabled us to share fond memories! You even got us out of our beds at any time of the day and (especially) night with smiles on our faces!" Florie

Being a Gazelle of the Sea, is about knowing and accepting to Pull and Push Ahead Together !

It is about knowing how to live together in a confined space, following an atypical way of life - and one that is on water. Every crewmember has their place and learns to do what needs to be done, but together, the crew works as a team, discussing and communicating with everyone on board; in the spirit of real camaraderie, but following the orders of the captain, every decision counts when it comes to reaching the common goal.

As an essential part of any seafaring mission, the Gazelles of the sea are "sailors" who thrive in the sea spray, always ready to intervene and hone their skills in successfully completing their mission no matter what the circumstances.

Dynamic, versatile and meticulous, the Gazelles of the sea need to know how to adapt to any conditions at any time be they related to the weather, equipment or anyone else on board. Indeed, working together at sea is no mean feat and requires faultless teamwork and a great sense of responsibility. When at sea, there is no quick fix. The sea brings out all of the sides of people's nature and soon puts an end to overindulgence. You need to know how to listen, comply with rules, be nimble and react in an appropriate way at any time of the day or night.

The Gazelles of the sea need to be tough and physically prepared, since being in shape is important for getting everything that is required to be done at all times. Endurance, stress management and working under pressure are key assets insofar as they have an immediate effect on one's ability to react and intervene in the face of an unexpected problem. In addition, knowing how to stay calm and be aware are crucial when working on board a ship.

The Gazelles of the sea need to be tenacious and demanding, be driven to resolve problems together, and show willingness and determination when it comes to pushing one's limits and achieving goals.

Good knowledge of English would be an added plus in the context of an international race. Why wait any longer? Take the plunge and join us!

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