Musée du Platin, Maritime heritage museum in La Flotte, France.
The Musée du Platin is a maritime museum in La Flotte on Île de Ré spread across four exhibition levels. The rooms display the island's history, old working techniques, everyday items, and equipment connected to seafaring life.
The building started as a 19th-century distillery called Margotteau, showing the island's past link to wine and spirits production. Later it became a space to preserve the stories of traditional boats and the people who built and sailed them.
The name honors the Platin, a traditional salt-trading vessel that once sailed these waters. Inside, you find everyday objects and tools that show how island people depended on the sea for their livelihoods.
The museum sits in the center of La Flotte and is easily reached on foot. Plan to visit in the afternoon or early evening, as opening hours tend to favor those times throughout the week.
The museum owes its existence to a group of enthusiasts determined to save traditional Charente boats from being forgotten. What started as a temporary show grew into a permanent collection that still reflects the passion of these dedicated volunteers.
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