The discovery is sure to surprise those familiar with the Médoc coast. On the Gressier beach, in Porge, a large red metal cylinder now rests on the sand. It’s a whistling buoy for maritime signaling, having made its way all the way from Canada after an astonishing transatlantic journey.
A Drift of Several Months Across the Atlantic
According to initial reports, the buoy reportedly detached from its anchor chain and drifted for several months in the ocean. Carried by currents and storms, it was eventually propelled towards the shores of Gironde by Storm Nils. In total, the object is said to have traveled over 4,000 km before reaching the Médoc coast. Canadian coast guards have confirmed the buoy's origin, too!
if its exact home port is still unknown..
A Maritime Signaling Device
This impressive metal structure is a starboard lateral whistle buoy, used to guide ships when visibility is low. Equipped with a whistle activated by wind and waves, it emits a distinctive sound that helps sailors navigate through fog or mist. Weighing in at about 7 tons, it’s an essential part of maritime marking.
Since it ran aground, the buoy has piqued the curiosity of visitors. On the beach, young and old alike come to see this unusual metal structure, with some kids even daring to climb on its framework. Alerted to the situation, the French maritime authorities have taken over. The subdivision of lighthouses and buoys of the 5th...Rdon-sur-Mer has been tasked with managing the situation.
Recovery Planned in the Coming Days
The recovery operation, delicate due to the weight of the buoy, must be carried out by land within the next fifteen days. The question remains what will happen to the object once recovered: will it be sent back to Canada or kept in France? For now, the answer is still undecided.