New Sailing Replica of Tintin's La Licorne

Journey of the La Licorne Replica

The replica of the 17th-century sailing ship La Licorne, inspired by a classic comic strip, has found its new home in Gravelines, France. This 15-meter schooner, crafted in Brussels by an enthusiastic team of volunteers, is a remarkable endeavor linking maritime heritage with popular culture, capturing the essence of adventure and exploration.

A Community Project from Brussels

In 2017, the construction of La Licorne began in Anderlecht, initiated by the nonprofit organization ASBL L'Atelier Marin, led by Nicolas Joschko. This initiative was not just about building a boat; it was a mission to impart traditional naval carpentry skills to children and adults from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through collaborative efforts, about 160 adults and 300 children participated in creating this wooden marvel.

The Historical Significance of La Licorne

La Licorne is modeled after a 17th-century ship originally commissioned for the French royal court by Colbert. Its historical counterpart played a crucial role in advocating the enhancement of the French fleet under Louis XIV. As such, this replica not only showcases craftsmanship but also evokes a sense of history that resonated through the pages of The Secret of the Unicorn, one of Tintin’s most beloved adventures.

Launch and Completion

After an incredible 4,800 hours of hard work, La Licorne was launched into the Brussels canal in 2019. The subsequent phase involved rigging at the Brussels Royal Yacht Club, which contributed an additional 2,000 hours of meticulous work to set up masts, shrouds, and sails. The ship’s builders achieved a budget of €70,000, sticking closely to the designs of light demonstration ships from the 17th century. Its narrow hull and shallow draft were specifically crafted for navigating sheltered waters.

New Adventures Await in Gravelines

In July 2025, La Licorne arrived at the port of Gravelines, alongside the Jean-Bart, another significant maritime project ongoing since 2002. The juxtaposition of La Licorne with the historic Jean-Bart creates an opportunity for educational ventures, representing a spectrum of maritime history, ranging from community grassroots efforts to grand historical replicas.

Collaboration and Heritage Promotion

This collaboration represents a unique intersection of culture, as La Licorne is now positioned not merely as a ship, but as an educational tool fostering cultural and social awareness. The initiative focuses on introducing young people to the maritime world, promoting the rich naval heritage intertwined with northern France's history.

Implications for Sailing and Boat Rentals

With the launch of replicas such as La Licorne, there is a resurgent interest in sailing and maritime adventures, embodying not only the spirit of exploration but also the importance of preserving maritime culture. For enthusiasts and adventurers alike, understanding these historical vessels opens up a world of opportunities. Renting boats for sailing adventures allows travelers to immerse themselves in regions rich with history and natural beauty, making each trip an unforgettable experience.

Connecting Historical Context with Modern Adventures

Visiting regions where replicas like La Licorne dock offers a unique perspective on sailing's evolution and its cultural significance. The presence of such vessels can encourage tourism, highlighting local ecosystems and histories, thereby fostering a deeper connection to the seaside and ocean adventures. When planning a trip to explore the maritime delights and tangled pasts of such regions, renting a boat is often the best way to intimately experience the surroundings.

Why Rent a Boat?

Experiencing the coastlines, bays, and lagoons aboard a rented vessel enhances your understanding of a region. Each inlet offers a new view, and much like the taste of local cuisine, the sights from a boat can convey stories of the past and the culture of an area. With GetBoat, you can explore a varied inventory of boats, ensuring freedom and flexibility in your travels.

GetBoat's Unique Offerings

GetBoat is at the forefront of transforming maritime tourism, allowing clients to tailor their sailing experiences. Whether planning a romantic getaway or an adventurous group trip, the platform promises a plethora of options adjusted to any taste and budget. Travelers can easily review comprehensive details, including make, model, and ratings of various vessels prior to booking, creating a transparent and informed journey.

Embark on Your Next Sailing Adventure

Recognizing the importance of exploration and heritage, GetBoat connects clients with the broader maritime community. In light of new developments and cultural initiatives, planning your next seaside adventure is more vital than ever. Secure your plans and book your boat or yacht rental through GetBoat, ensuring you don’t miss the chance for a memorable voyage.

Conclusion

The journey of La Licorne highlights the intersection of maritime heritage and modern-day adventures, offering insight into sailing history while presenting opportunities for contemporary exploration. The project emphasizes the significance of preserving culture and engaging with the sea's rich tapestry, essential for enhancing tourism. If you're planning your next trip to the sea, consider renting a boat, as every inlet, bay, and lagoon narrates a story uniquely tied to the region, from its cuisine to its architecture and language. Experience these narratives firsthand with GetBoat.com.