The Bordeaux commercial court announced on Wednesday, February 11, the judicial liquidation of I.Boat, bringing a definitive end to the activities of a giant in Bordeaux's nightlife that had been moored at the Bassins à flot since 2011.
Fatal administrative closure for the black boat
Everything sped up after a sexual and verbal assault that occurred on the night of November 15 to 16, following the France-Fiji match at the Stade Atlantique. On January 15, 2026, the prefect of Gironde ordered a two-month administrative closure.
Deprived of any income during this period, the establishment couldn't meet its ongoing expenses. Already engaged in a recovery plan, the venue couldn't withstand this interruption of activity. “The administrative closure deprived us of our income, but expenses still had to be paid. Without cash flow, we av...
“We had to declare ourselves in cessation of payment,” explains François Bidou, manager of I.Boat. 21 employees find themselves without jobs today. Tickets sold for upcoming concerts must be refunded.Voir cette publication sur Instagram
A major page in Bordeaux's cultural life
It’s the end of an era for several generations of Bordeaux party-goers. Located on a ferry docked at the Bassins à flot, this independent venue shone internationally with its electrifying nights, a free-spirited approach to culture, exceptional visits from international artists, and bold programming that kept even the most loyal night owls pleasantly surprised. Its disappearance leaves a huge void in Bordeaux's cultural landscape.
The city hall indicates that they are in discussions with the owner of the ferry to ensure the site maintains a cultural purpose. But for the I.Boat, the adventure has definitely come to an end. "Hit hard and sunk," they say in a chilling statement that invites reflection.