bordeaux-ublo

UBLO: the new 620 m² festive boat that will succeed IBOAT is opening very soon in Bordeaux

undefined undefined 7 septembre 2026 undefined 17h30

The Editor

©Julien Grafeuille

After 6 months of transformation, the legendary ferry moored at the Bassins à flot is ready to write a new chapter. Renamed UBLO, this cultural and festive venue will reopen its doors by October, featuring a club, an oyster terrace, concerts, and programming that stays true to the DNA that made it famous.

After several months of renovation work, the former IBOAT is ready for a new beginning. Now known as UBLO, the iconic ferry La Vendée, moored at the Bassins à flot, will reopen by the end of September at the latest, or early October. Completely redesigned, this 620 m² boat aims to establish itself as a new hub for electronic music and independent cultures in Bordeaux.

A major renovation to transform the ferry

Before its reopening, the boat underwent significant structural work, including dry dock and a complete renovation of its interior spaces.

The most spectacular transformation concerns the hold,

true heart of the ferry. The ceiling height has been increased by a meter, the floor completely redone, and a new Danley sound system as well as immersive lighting scenography have been installed. On the outside, the ship also displays a new identity with a hull repainted in fir green.

Work will continue through December, without preventing the site from opening to the public.

ublo-bordeaux©Nathan Dassieu

Club, concerts and oyster tastings across three levels

Spread across 3 levels, UBLO will offer several complementary experiences. The club, open Thursday to Saturday from midnight to 6am, will launch its activity from opening with programming primarily focused on electronic and techno music, while making room for urban cultures and more festive sounds on the upper deck.

Concerts will make their return from January 2027, continuing the artistic direction that made the former IBOAT's reputation

: showcase independent music, emerging artists, and unique projects.

Oyster terrace overlooking the Bassins à flot

Among the new features is a tasting space installed on the upper deck. In an atmosphere inspired by Bassin d'Arcachon, visitors will be able to enjoy oysters from PerlOstrea, an oyster farmer based in Andernos-les-Bains, awarded at the 2025 General Agricultural Competition, accompanied by a few shareable plates and beverages.

The goal is to bring the boat to life from aperitif hour, well beyond its evening programming.

ancien-iboat-bordeaux-ublo©Julien Grafeuille

A cultural venue open all day long

Beyond evening events, UBLO wants to become a living space. Workshops, meetings, community events, collaborative projects, and cultural gatherings will gradually be offered to bring the ferry to life throughout the day.

The venue also champions accessible pricing and strengthened prevention measures, with a dedicated coordinator focused on harm reduction and combating gender-based and sexual violence during evening events.