Belem, which will be calling at Cowes. Picture by Jean-Christophe l'Espagnol.
THE three-masted ship Belem, Europe's oldest and France's most prestigious tall ship still operating at sea, will be calling at Cowes tomorrow (Saturday).
She is making a unique visit to the Royal Yacht Squadron to commemorate the 36 years during which she sailed under British colours, from 1914 to 1950.
Built in 1896 in Nantes, Belem was at first a merchant vessel operating between France, Brazil and the French Caribbean.
She was bought in 1914 by the second Duke of Westminster, who transformed her into a luxury yacht.
In 1921, the Duke sold the ship to the Hon Arthur Ernest Guinness, who renamed the ship Fantome II and sailed her extensively, completing a round the world trip in 1923-24.
He owned the ship until his death in 1949. Both the Duke and Ernest Guinness were distinguished members of the Royal Yacht Squadron and the ship was frequently seen in Cowes.
Today, she is the property of the Fondation Belem and operated as a civilian training ship.
Belem is due to arrive at Trinity Landing at 10.30am tomorrow and will be open to the public on Sunday between 11am and 6pm.
Reporter: suep@iwcpmail.co.uk