The workshop of AJD
Whenever we can, we visit artisanal workshops as well as cultural festivals and events on our expeditions. The workshop of Les Amis de jeudi dimanche is special, not least of all because the association’s mission is to promote the therapeutic power of sailing. AJD was founded in 1951 by a Jesuit priest, Fr Michel Jaouen, to help formerly incarcerated young men transition back into society. Today, it takes people of all ages on cruises around the world to help them cope with such life challenges as PTSD and addiction.
It so happens that AJD has an impressive workshop near L’Aber Wrac’h (not far from Brest) where they make much of what they need to repair and maintain their two old vessels: the three-masted schooner le Bel Espoir and the 27m Rara Avis. The minute you walk through the door you can smell the old wood and resins. And you can see all the pulleys, rigging, sails, and other materials you need to keep old boats seaworthy, many manufactured onsite. For more information, you can visit www.belespoir.com. (The website is in French.)
Photos: Éric Duriez
