April - November
WELCOME
LITTLE SAILORS
A simple concept that has existed for over 150 years on the large pond in the in Paris.
At the Tuileries Garden
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 11am to 6pm, and 7 days a week during school holidays.
From design to sailing
DESIGN
In the tradition of the pond sailboats linked to the Tuileries Garden by the Rigolage family since 1906. The sailboats are inspired by the working and fishing boats found along the French coast in the 19th century. Others pay tribute to well-known naval architects from the yachting world.
ATELIER
The hulls are designed and adapted. Then, they are cut from wood of French origin. The sails are cut, sewn and each piece is put into action in Raphaël's workshop located in the Paris region. Made in France
The colourful boats are sturdy and lightweight, so they’re easy for children to handle.
SAILING
Each boat is balanced and tested to be responsive in light winds and stable in stronger winds. Performance can vary depending on the designs: William Fife, Askoï by Jacques Brel, Le Renard by Surcouf, etc.
Flotilla
The flotilla is made up of small, handmade sailboats with colourful sails illustrated with motifs inspired by the garden’s statues, the Louvre collections, or children’s themes.
Did you know?
The pond sailboats of the Tuileries Garden: a timeless tradition
In the Jardin des Tuileries, pond sailboats have been part of the scenery since the late 19th century. A true Parisian tradition, this iconic activity has been passed down through generations without losing any of its authenticity.
These boats were originally inspired by the hulls of Breton coastal fishing and working sailboats, built by passionate craftspeople. They became a must-have game for Parisian children, to the point of becoming a family outing rooted in the garden’s everyday life.
Since then, the scene has hardly changed. Generations of children take turns, guiding their sailboats with a simple stick, while parents watch or slip back into their own memories.
These little boats offer an outdoor playtime that’s both fun and soothing, carried by the wind, the water and imagination. A timeless moment that spans the ages, and that continues to bring together young and old around a simple, authentic pleasure.
Access, opening hours and useful information
Opening hours
Open from April to November.
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 11am to 6pm
& 7 days a week during school holidays.
Find us
Octogonal pond close to Orangerie and Jeu de Paume Museum - Tuileries Garden
(Concorde entrance)
75001 Paris
Concorde Metro
France
Prices
The price is €6 for 30 minutes of sailing.
Payment by card or cash.
Outdoor activity - No booking required, just come straight to the edge of the pond.