Fort Boyard: a monument and an economy in peril

Fort Boyard has never experienced such an ordeal. A titanic construction project has just begun at the foot of the stone vessel for several days. With the onslaught of waves and storms, the monument is not doing well and has become fragile . Impressive cracks have appeared over the years. The first step is to remove the stones and rocks at the foot of the building.

Extremely meticulous work. " We work completely underwater. To do this, we use a GPS system on board the excavator to help us locate ourselves and know where we need to dig. We have centimeter-level precision that allows us to accurately determine the areas and avoid removing too much or too little material ," explains one of the machine's operators.

The goal is to rebuild a spur at the bow to break the waves, and a harbor at the stern to accommodate boats. The project will cost 44 million euros. To finance it, an appeal for donations has been launched through the Heritage Foundation to save Fort Boyard, which is currently under threat.

" The sea is a hostile environment. It's an element that can develop incredible power. If we do nothing, in five or ten years, we'll already see elements falling into the sea. Truly helping Fort Boyard in its restoration is a historic gesture ," says Sylvie Marcilly, President of the Charente-Maritime Department.

The fort's history has seen some turbulent times. Barely completed in the 19th century, it served as a prison for only a few years before being abandoned. It wasn't until the 1990s that the television program was released and the monument was saved. The program, broadcast in over 70 countries, was a success. Fort Boyard rose to prominence.

Preserving the structure is therefore crucial for the local heritage and economy. Here, almost everything is Fort Boyard. Just walk through the door of this souvenir shop to understand. The glittering snow globe, the mug, the tea towel, the soap box, it's also a pencil sharpener, even the sandrignes, the chouimins, the cups, the water bottles, and everything for traveling.

Many cruises are offered from La Rochelle to get up close to the building. " A bit emotional, of course, because I tell myself that some stars have come. It's still a local monument ," enthuses one vacationer, while a second speaks of " something grandiose ."

In the summer, the company "Navipromer" offers nearly ten tours per day. "It's true that the fort is completely the icon of Charente-Maritime, but there are people who come to La Rochelle for the fort. It's a complete economy. For us, it's our main cruise; we live off the fort," assures Morgan Hennequin, captain and co-manager of the company.