Plymouth greeted the Pont-Aven on the morning of the 17th March, as the Val de Loire departed on her penultimate sailing to the port of Santander.

Pont-Aven made her grand entrance into Plymouth Sound just as the Val de Loire set sail, a little after 12:00. The two ships passed off the anchorage to much whistle blowing, the Pont-Aven being dressed overall. Plymouth Hoe was lined with spectators eager to catch a glimpse of the largest vessel to berth in the city.

Under the expert handling of Captain Joseph Hardouin, and under the observation of the pilot turned the ship off Millbay to berth stern in, and to much relief she fitted - just. Just minutes prior to her arrival the dredger could still be seen at work off Drakes Island! It all looked so easy but impressive!

Following her arrival Brittany Ferries employees were able to tour the vessel, with a champagne reception being held in the main bar 'le Grande Pavois'.

At 1730 she moved sailed out of Millbay before berthing bow in for further trials. She departed to Roscoff at 2030 prior to the arrival of the Duc de Normandie.

The Pont-Aven will return to Plymouth on the morning of Tuesday 23rd March in preparation for her maiden voyage.

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