On a Boat...

On March 31st, 2010 there was a party in New York City. Well, there must have been many parties that night. One in particular was aboard the Jeanne d'Arc at Pier 90, hosted by none other than the French Navy. Built in the 1960's for the Cold War, the ship has been sailing the world on missions for the past fifty years. The helicopter carrier was making its last journey as a naval ship. At each port along the way until it reaches Quebec in four months, the ship will host an exclusive party.

French speakers and non-French speakers alike, there was something at this party for anyone who enjoys French food, champagne, hors d'oeuvres, music, or military uniforms. I was able to practice my French which was definitely one of the night's highlights. All men aboard the ship were in military uniform (for the most part, with the exception of a few men who donned suits). The female guests all donned dresses of all kinds, some representing American styles and some representing French styles. Members of the crew also led tours of as many guests as were interested around the ship's command center and defense center. Many of the controls are electronic, which differs vastly from a tall sailing ship, for example.

The views from the ship of the Manhattan skyline at midtown were stunning. The party started while the sun was still up, so guests were able to observe sunset while aboard, cocktail in hand. There was a French band that featured French marines singing, and there was never a shortage of delicious appetizers. After the main party was over, an after party ensued that featured exquisite desserts of all kinds and more champagne.

If you are inclined to try to secure an invitation to one of the port parties, the ship's only remaining destinations are St. Pierre, Quebec, and its home port, Brest. For marveling purposes only, the ship's previous stops included Rio de Janeiro, Montevido, Ushuaia, Valparaiso, Callao, Balbo, Pointe-a Pitre, and New York.

A great video profiling the ship's last journey can be found at the Daily Motion: http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xc4cvf_navy-the-jeanne-d-arc-s-last-trip_news

NYC midtown from the Jeanne before sunset.

The extended tour of the ship's upper decks.

Night view from the command room.