On September 16, some fifty enthusiasts, professionals and the curious gathered in Le Havre, France, at the initiative of the X-Normandie, X-Mer and Ponts Maritime groups. The program From transatlantic aesthetics to naval architecture : a journey through over a century of French technical and artistic creativity, where maritime transport and tourism have inspired innovation.

Organized by Gérard Philippe Grandjean (X70, Ponts75) and Dominique de Robillard (X74, Ponts80), the day began at the Musée d'Art Moderne André Malraux (MuMa). The exhibition "1913-1942 - Paquebots, une esthétique transatlantique" immersed visitors in the golden age of the giants of the seas. From the sleek lines of the Normandie to the Art Deco salons of the France, these ships were much more than mere means of transport; they symbolized the prestige and audacity of France.

A few steps away, the École Nationale Supérieure Maritime (ENSM), where 400 future officers of the merchant navy are trained. Between a tour of the facilities and a conference, participants discovered the state-of-the-art teaching tools and current issues in maritime training.

Thibaut Tincelin (X94), naval architect and Managing Director of Stirling Design International (SDI), shared his vision of advances in naval architecture, between new uses and the challenges of decarbonization. Florian Weyer (X05, Ponts11), Deputy Managing Director of Haropa Port, presented the structuring projects of the Port of Le Havre, combining infrastructure modernization and passenger transport development.

The day ended in the conviviality of the Seamen's Club, an emblematic venue for welcoming sailors on port calls. Discussions continued over a drink, driven by a shared passion for the sea and its history, under the impetus of Paul Scherrer (X72, Ponts77), a member of the seafarers' association.