Boat Christening ceremony

Yesterday as I set out for Vannes to attend the Christening of Romain Vergé's trans-Atlantic boat, just down the hill on the river, what did I see... Another Rames-Guyane class boat moored at the CAN rowing club*.

With that image in my mind I drove the 100 so kilometres up to Vannes through heavy early weekend traffic. I had met Romain at a boat show here in Nantes and was immediately taken to this friendly generous guy. He has offered free space on his boat to promote the Intervida charity and is working closely with local schools, including a specialised institution. In his words, he is taking part in a great personal adventure which he wishes to share with those less fortunate. "If I'm lucky enough to go I want to bring others with me, at least in spirit". He has also used help from a local technical high school to fit out and wire the boat - done as a school project. But the hull was built with his own hands and the help of a few friends as illustrated in the photo gallery on his site which we have already linked to in earlier news reports.

The ceremony itself was an illustration of the generous and charismatic personalty of the builder/rower. A speech/interview with race organizer Michel Horeau who explained that 15 people (one lady only) are to take place in the race. Short to the point speaches by the Intervida France lady, the director of the Vannes tourist office and a teacher from the specialised learning institute. An "interesting" Christening speech buy a retired professional sailor who said all the right words to keep sea creatures at bay. And another by the Marraine, Véronique Jéhanno, with traditional biniou (bagpipe) and bombarde music to finish. Not sure if it is a sign from Neptune but the Marraine had to take a couple of swings to break the champagne bottle on the bow... Followed by the traditional Christening cocktail for all present. All of the above under clear blue sky on the port bustling with early holiday makers which lead to an interesting overheard comment or two. English girl, 20's something, and how can we put it - not thin... said and I quote: "He is going to cross the Atlantic in that? But there isn't enough room in there for his food"...

Tony Grant
Vannes, June 2006

www.ramesguyane.com
Romain's site
Vannes tourist office
Photo gallery