In the heart of Bordeaux, river history is told through the coming and going of boats. Among them, the « Hirondelles » and the « Gondoles » stand out, evoking a time when the Garonne was crossed not by bridges, but by romantic river buses. These ancestors of today's BatCub deserve a dive into their fascinating story.
The era of steamboats
A promising start
The « Hirondelles » and « Gondoles » began sailing on the Garonne in the second half of the 19th century. These steamboats, 15 to 20 metres long, were a practical and elegant answer to the need to cross the river. Their retractable funnel let them pass under the Pont de Pierre, a technical feat for the time.
The merger of the companies
In 1886, a merger marked the history of these boats: the Hirondelles and Gondoles companies joined forces, consolidating their presence on the Garonne. This merger symbolised the growing importance of river transport in Bordeaux daily life.
The boats in Bordeaux life
More than just transport
These boats were far more than mere transport. They were meeting places, symbols of modernity and elegance. Their home port, a wooden landing in front of Place de la Bourse, was a central point in the social and economic life of the city. The Second World War was a tragic period for these boats. Many were destroyed when the Occupation troops set fire to the harbour. It was a heavy blow to this river heritage, marking the end of an era.
The link with today: the BatCub
The « Hirondelles » and « Gondoles » are the direct ancestors of today's BatCub, which links quai Richelieu to Lormont. Although the technology has evolved, the spirit of these boats lives on through the BatCub, testifying to the historical and cultural importance of navigation on the Garonne. No « Gondole » has survived, except for a wreck spotted by the fire brigade. The discovery of the bell and the figurehead of that boat is a poignant reminder of this rich maritime past.
The « Hirondelles » and « Gondoles » of Bordeaux are not simple footnotes in the city's history. They represent a living chapter of Bordeaux identity, a link between past and present, between tradition and modernity. Their memory keeps inspiring, reminding us of the importance of preserving and celebrating our heritage for future generations.
