As part of Monaco’s National Day 2016, which falls on Saturday, November 19, the frigate Guépratte of the French Navy is making a stopover in Monaco. A detachment of 16 sailors, including the honour guard on board, will participate in the Taking of Arms and the parade on Saturday.
This 125 metre-long combat vessel is commanded by Captain Claire Pothier. The crew is composed of 15 officers, 85 naval officers and 53 master quarters and sailors. Through its capacity for action and information gathering, it’s able to preserve and enforce France’s interests in maritime areas outside Europe and participate in crisis resolution.
The Guépratte can also be integrated into a naval task force and be called upon to support an intervention force, protect commercial maritime traffic, carry out humanitarian missions or support special operations.
Moored at the Rainier III dock, the frigate will be open to the public on Saturday, November 19 from 8 am to 6 pm (except noon to 1 pm). Five group visits per hour with 10 to 15 people per group, with no need to make a reservation. No bulky bags will be accepted.
Article first published November 16, 2016.