Piscine Joséphine-Baker in Paris: the legendary floating pool closes for good after 20 years on the Seine

The Joséphine-Baker floating pool is to close its doors for good. Docked on the Quai François-Mauriac since 2006, this iconic facility enables Parisians to swim in the Seine without getting wet. After twenty years in service, the facility’s obsolescence signals the end of an era for urban swimming enthusiasts.

An emblematic facility in the heart of the 13th arrondissement

The Joséphine-Baker floating pool is located at the foot of the Bibliothèque nationale de France. It’s right next door to the Batofar and Petit-Bain, two well-known party spots for Parisian night owls. This location makes it a popular spot with local residents.

Launched in the wake of Paris-Plages, this swimming pool was designed by architect Robert de Busni. Its structure blends glass and steel, offering a breathtaking view of the quays of the Seine. What’s more, the swimming pool’s sunroof lets you enjoy the summer sun in complete safety.

This equipment was designed to last fifteen years when it opened. However, it has exceeded this initial lifespan by several years. As a result, signs of fatigue have multiplied over time.

“Very poor general condition

An alarming diagnosis as early as 2021

A diagnosis carried out in 2021 revealed major structural problems. According to the report, the overall condition of the Joséphine-Baker floating pool was considered to be in a very poor state. This assessment highlighted the urgent need for intervention.

The structure is likely to fail the next certification inspection scheduled for May. In fact, safety standards can no longer be guaranteed without major work. As a result, the city is faced with a difficult choice.

• Pool opening in 2006
• Life expectancy: fifteen years
• Alarming diagnosis in 2021
• Estimated cost of repairs: over 5 million euros
• Request for extension to spring 2027

Repair costs deemed too high

Repairing the Joséphine-Baker floating pool would cost over 5 million euros. This represents a substantial investment for the Mairie de Paris. As a result, the elected representatives decided to forego this option.

Equipment is expensive to run on a day-to-day basis. Between maintenance, personnel and technical charges, the bill is getting heavier every year. As a result, the town has decided not to prolong the adventure.

This decision also reflects a shift in municipal priorities. From now on, open-air bathing in the Seine itself seems to be the preferred option. The Bercy bathing site, just opposite, is due to reopen this summer.

An alternative with the Bercy site

The Mairie refers swimmers to the Bercy bathing site. This site offers a different experience, closer to the natural Seine. It should welcome swimmers as soon as the weather is fine.

This alternative is in line with our ongoing efforts to make the Seine swimmable. However, the closure of the Joséphine-Baker floating pool has left a void for some regulars. They appreciated the safe environment it offered.

The comfort of a treated pool, with changing rooms and lifeguards, differs from open-water swimming. Families with children may therefore miss this protected area. The transition to Bercy will require adaptation.

A possible reprieve until spring 2027

The Town Hall is not completely closing the door on a final summer. It intends to ask the prefect for an extension to the operation. Conditions permitting, the Joséphine-Baker floating pool could remain open until spring 2027.

This request is intended to offer Parisians a final moment of sharing. Twenty years of memories deserve a beautiful last season. Many residents hope to enjoy this unique venue once again.

Nothing is guaranteed for the time being. Authorization will depend on the actual condition of the structure and the risks involved. Nevertheless, the city seems determined to extend the adventure for a few more months.

Pending an official decision, swimming enthusiasts on the Seine can still dream. The Joséphine-Baker floating pool has left its mark on Paris’s aquatic history. Its legacy will undoubtedly inspire future innovative urban projects.

• Joséphine-Baker floating pool