Our History
A Decade of Passion
From a single forgotten vessel to a thriving community movement, discover how we've spent the last ten years preserving Marseille's maritime soul.
The Founding Vision
It began with a simple yet profound realization: the traditional wooden boats of Marseille, the beloved 'pointus', were slowly disappearing from the Old Port, taking a piece of our soul with them. A small group of passionate maritime enthusiasts gathered at the historic Chantier Naval Borg with a shared, urgent mission: to save these floating pieces of history from decay. They founded LES POINTUS DE LA BARQUETTE, starting with just one dilapidated vessel and a bold dream to restore it to its former glory using ancestral naval carpentry techniques passed down through generations.
Building Community Trust
As the first meticulously restored pointu touched the Mediterranean waters, the local community took notice. The association began hosting open workshops, inviting locals to witness the dedication and craftsmanship firsthand. This transparency built immense trust within Marseille. We realized we weren't just repairing boats; we were reviving a forgotten cultural identity. Educational programs were launched, bringing schoolchildren to the docks to learn about their coastal heritage, fostering a new generation of maritime stewards who understand the value of our shared history.
Weathering the Storms
The global challenges of recent years tested our resilience, but the sea teaches endurance and adaptability. We pivoted by creating smaller, focused community events and expanding our digital presence to share the intricate knowledge of naval carpentry wider than ever before. During this time, our vital partnership with Chantier Naval Borg deepened significantly, securing a permanent space for learning and exchange at 25 Anse du Pharo. This period solidified our role not just as boat restorers, but as a vital cultural anchor in the heart of Marseille.
A Fleet of Heritage
Today, as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, that single restored boat has grown into a proud, vibrant fleet. LES POINTUS DE LA BARQUETTE stands as a recognized beacon of maritime preservation. Our workshops buzz with volunteers of all ages, and our community events draw crowds eager to connect with authentic sea-related traditions. We look back at a decade of passion, sweat, and sawdust, knowing that the legacy of the pointus is safe, sailing confidently into the future, carried by the community that helped rebuild it.
The Founding Crew
Meet the dedicated artisans and maritime enthusiasts who steer our mission to preserve Marseille's coastal heritage and transmit the art of naval carpentry.
Jean Dupont
President & Master ShipwrightWith decades of experience at Chantier Naval Borg, Jean leads our preservation efforts, ensuring traditional naval carpentry skills are passed down to the next generation.
Claire Lefèvre
Educational Programs DirectorClaire designs our hands-on workshops and community events, creating engaging spaces where locals can connect with their maritime roots and learn ancestral techniques.
Marc Antoine
Heritage Restoration LeadA specialist in the intricate restoration of traditional 'pointus', Marc oversees the meticulous repair of our historic fleet, blending modern safety with authentic craftsmanship.