The military mast.
Built between 1947 and 1948 by the Forges et Chantiers de la Méditerranée at Graville (Havre), this light-ship was launched in 1949 with the name BF 6 (bateau-feu or light-ship 6). The light-ships were first given a provisional identity, a running number given by the yard in order of construction, while the ship was waiting to be given the name of the sandbank it was to protect.
The anchorage system of the Sandettie.
Three photos above by Serge Lucas. Port Museum Collection.
Eight men took turns to go on board this unusual vessel each for a fortnight. They kept watch and looked after the light which was never allowed to go out. Alone at sea, in the dark and in the fog that was only pierced by the scream of the fog-horn and tossed by storms, these sailors lived an isolated life on board a ship that had no destination.
Taken out of service in 1989, the Sandettie was the last light-ship to be used in French waters.
It was acquired that same year by the town of Dunkirk and recorded as a historic monument in 1997
Change-over of the crew.
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Photos: Port Museum.
Ship's description
Riveted steel hull | Displacement: 450 tons |