This article should not normally have been read. Even though the annual meeting of members was held in Rochefort on Friday, July 8, followed by a board discussion the following day, it was not the most important event. Contrary to tradition, the association did not plan a press conference at this highlight. Instead, it sent a press release on Tuesday, July 12. But, it was over. It was even heavier than the boat that had been in Bayonne since September 2021 after a fungus began eating its hull. Marc de Briancon was elected president on July 9, to replace Olivier Pagezy. He agreed to an interview with "Sud Ouest". Transparency is the key.
Did the fungus infest other parts of L'Hermione, besides the infested frigate's stern?
Although the diagnosis is still not complete, the investigations have shown that the fungus did not infect the central part of the boat. He attacked the rear with great skill, inspecting at 90% and also exploring the front at 70%. There are some damage to the frames and counter-bow. We began to overflow below waterline. I have no idea how much.
Are you apprehensive about the bad news?
Yes, it is true, but it is nature that makes the final call at sea. We have to keep the boat immobilized longer because of this additional damage. While we were planning to remain in Bayonne until 2022, it is now that we are considering extending the refit for several more months. We will give ourselves an extra year to bounce back without having to be in dry dock. However, it will take some time to not reboard too soon in relation to the launch. The trip to Northern Europe was postponed until 2023. Unfortunately, it has been cancelled. Human and financial challenges are the challenge.
To repair the damage to the rear, you had to raise 3.5million. For the front one, we are talking about at most a million. How about?
This could be the case, although we don't know the extent of the damage or the cost of the work. We are currently in discussions with local authorities about financing. We need to turn to the Foundation for patrons and increase the number members. Currently, there are almost 3,000. We are also considering changing our economic model, by changing our organization and making Arsenal des mers a mixed economy company.
What are our knowledge about this fungus?
It thrives in humid areas between 20 to 80% humidity, and warm, dark places that are not sprayed by salt water. The salt slows down the growth of the plant, but does not prevent it from growing. The proximity of engines and galleys at the rear can provide an explanation. But, at the front we have a much better understanding.
What is the process of exploration?
There are many tools available: the eye, the knife, the endoscope, the resistograph which pierces wood to check its hardness but only 40 cm deep; and finally the hygrometer. It is difficult to see the front and back of the wood, which are both the same density. We have to fill the overflowing wood with healthy wood, which will need to be replaced in order to see in detail. However, there are not enough tools to diagnose the problem. To pierce or dismantle everything it would require a large radar or big scanner. Manufacturers are considering it and we want our experience to be studied. "The Hermione", while not the only one suffering from a fungus is more prominently in the spotlight.
Do you want to take the time to inspect "The Hermione?"
It's a complete and thorough overhaul. We inspect everything, from the masts we remove to the rigging and even the ends.
Is maintenance "L'Hermione's weak point" so far?
Perhaps we were more interested in sailing... A boat is not immortal. It was not something we had in mind. Although "The Hermione", was removed from the water every year for inspection, how can you go about exploring everything without destroying it all? Experts recommend preventive maintenance, but what tools are available? This is all complicated.
Is "The Hermione", despite these setbacks, fixable?
Our experts said yes. However, they did not agree to all of the conditions. It will be necessary to install a system that removes humidity from the bow, stern, and center of the boat. This will allow the water to be pumped to prevent future damage. Ventilation will be required to circulate the air in the difficult to reach areas. Modern techniques are preferred for repairing, in accordance with the rules of the art. For example, glued laminated wood, the specialty of Asselin, is recommended for frames. This will give you more flexibility and also blocks the growth of fungus. Even though the product's effect will be temporary, we will treat all wood with an antifungal. We are also recommended to do future operations in salt water.
This means that "L'Hermione", the name of the Italian woman, will be less present in Rochefort.
Rochefort will remain our home port. We will also be there during the summer tourist season, as part of the Arsenal of the Seas. The water of the Charente is less salty than seawater, so the frigate will spend winter in La Rochelle, where there will be more visitors than in Rochefort. The mayor agreed. "The Hermione", however, will also sail! I signed up to the presidency to be able to sail the boat, not make it a museum. But not immediately. "The Hermione," must first continue her associative work by sailing so that she can tell stories later. This frigate is full of passion and enthusiasm!
