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The sailing ship Duchesse Anne is the largest visitable sailing ship in France
The majestic three-master Duchesse Anne, a former German training ship in Dunkirk, offers a fascinating insight into the living conditions of sailors in days gone by. Christened Grossherzogin Elisabeth, she was launched in 1901 and sailed for three decades, training generations of officers and sailors. Renovated in 2025 by the city of Dunkirk, this majestic three-master has been restored to her former glory and is now open to the public. A 30-minute tour explores the various spaces and immerses visitors in life aboard an exceptional ship.
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Saisi par la France après la Seconde Guerre mondiale en 1946, il est rebaptisé Duchesse Anne en hommage à Anne de Bretagne. Il devient alors un symbole de l’histoire maritime française et un témoignage des grandes traditions de navigation à la voile.
Classé monument historique en 1982, ce voilier est aujourd’hui l’un des principaux attraits du Musée portuaire de Dunkerque. Sa visite permet de découvrir la vie des apprentis marins à bord, avec ses cabines, son carré des officiers et ses vastes ponts.
Son authenticité et son imposante silhouette en font une attraction incontournable. Dernier grand voilier de ce type préservé en France, il illustre le savoir-faire naval du début du XXe siècle et continue de fasciner les passionnés de la mer et d’histoire maritime.