Winter refit 2025–2026 of the Sénang: a season in the boatyard
While Paris wraps itself in its winter coat, the Sénang lives its own season: that of the winter refit. Every year, our 12-metre Dutch tjalk receives a complete overhaul — an age-old maritime tradition that guarantees our passengers safety, comfort and beauty on every cruise. Here is a behind-the-scenes look at the 2025–2026 refit of the Sénang.
A maritime tradition: the boat’s winter maintenance
In the world of sailing, winter is the season of care. It is a tradition as old as seafaring itself: when waters cool and pleasure boating pauses, boats enter the yard to be inspected, repaired and beautified. For the Sénang, this period is sacred. It is the guarantee of quality and reliability that we owe our passengers.
The winter refit is not a simple clean-up. It is a complete restoration, methodical and exacting, covering every aspect of the boat: hull, deck, woodwork, hardware, safety equipment and navigation instruments. Nothing is left to chance.
Hull painting: protection and beauty
The first major project this winter concerns the hull painting. The Sénang was lifted out of the water to allow full access to her steel hull. The process begins with meticulous stripping of the old paint layers, followed by rigorous anti-corrosion treatment.
Next comes the application of antifouling, the special paint that prevents marine organisms from attaching to the hull. This is a crucial element for sailing performance and preservation of the boat’s structure. Finally, the finishing coats restore the Sénang’s traditional colours, true to the heritage of Dutch tjalks.
Artisan craftsmanship
Hull painting is a craft in its own right. The artisans working on the Sénang master the traditional techniques of marine painting. Each coat is applied under precise conditions of temperature and humidity, with drying times scrupulously observed. The result is a hull that is both perfectly protected and beautifully finished.
Varnish restoration: bringing the woodwork back to life
The Sénang owes much of its charm to its teak and fine-wood joinery. The bulwarks, coamings, coach roof and deck fittings — wood is everywhere and contributes to the warm, authentic atmosphere of the boat. But wood on water is put to a harsh test. UV rays, humidity, temperature swings and spray constantly attack the varnish.
Varnish restoration is a work of patience and precision. The old coats are sanded by hand, grit by grit, until the bare wood is revealed. Then come the new coats of marine varnish, a product specially formulated to withstand river conditions. Five to seven coats are needed to achieve optimal shine and protection.
The result is spectacular: the woodwork regains its golden lustre, its grain stands out with clarity, and the Sénang gleams as on its very first day. It is a feast for the eyes that our passengers appreciate the moment they step aboard.
Safety equipment: the absolute priority
The beauty of the Sénang would be nothing without the safety of its passengers. Winter is the opportunity for a full overhaul of all safety equipment on board. Every item is inspected, tested and replaced if necessary.
Life jackets are checked one by one: fabric condition, inflation system operation, integrity of straps and buckles. Fire extinguishers are inspected and recharged to current standards. The first-aid kit is restocked with fresh supplies. Navigation lights — the regulatory lights that signal a vessel’s position and heading at night — are tested and replaced if needed.
We go beyond regulatory requirements. Safety aboard the Sénang is not an administrative formality: it is a deep conviction. Our passengers must be able to enjoy their cruise with complete peace of mind, and that begins with a boat that is irreproachable in terms of safety.
Navigation instruments: technology in the service of tradition
While the Sénang is a traditional boat in soul and aesthetics, it carries modern navigation technology in the service of safety and comfort. This winter, we are updating and inspecting all instruments.
The GPS is checked and updated with the latest river charts. The VHF radio, essential for communication with locks, other vessels and port authorities, is tested on all frequencies. The depth sounder is recalibrated to ensure precise readings of the Seine’s riverbed. These instruments, invisible to passengers, are essential to the smooth running of every cruise.
Maritime craftsmanship: expert hands in the service of the Sénang
The Sénang’s winter refit calls upon artisans specialising in river craft. Painters, varnishers, mechanics, marine electricians — each brings their expertise and their love of a job well done. These trades, sometimes little known, perpetuate precious know-how. Working on a Dutch tjalk like the Sénang means touching the history of European navigation, and our artisans are fully aware of it.
The Sénang will return in spring 2026 more beautiful than ever
At the end of this winter refit, the Sénang will return to her berth at the Port de l’Arsenal in Paris’s 12th arrondissement, ready for a new season of private cruises on the Seine. Immaculate hull, gleaming woodwork, brand-new equipment: our Dutch tjalk will be more beautiful and safer than ever to welcome you aboard.
We cannot wait to see you on board. In the meantime, you can already browse our cruise packages and plan your next escape on the Seine. Our private cruises, starting from €480 for up to 12 passengers, await you as soon as the fine weather returns.
Book your cruise for spring 2026 and be among the first to rediscover the Sénang in all its restored splendour. Also explore our photo gallery for a glimpse of what awaits you on board.