The railway operates on a 'three-rail' track system in certain sections to accommodate both narrow-gauge and standard-gauge equipment.
Many of the locomotives used on the line are classified as Monument Historique, protecting them as official French cultural heritage.
The line was originally created in the 1880s to facilitate the transport of agricultural produce and passengers between the towns of the estuary.
The estuary is one of the largest in Northern France and is internationally recognized as an important migratory bird habitat.
The railway staff are primarily volunteers who maintain and operate the steam engines and vintage signaling equipment.
During the summer, the railway hosts special 'steam galas' featuring locomotives visiting from other European heritage lines.
The Railway Bay of Somme (Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme) Port Box Office serves as the primary ticketing and departure point for a historic narrow-gauge steam railway network. This heritage line operates original steam and diesel locomotives dating from the early 20th century. The system connects the port town of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme with Le Crotoy, Noyelles-sur-Mer, and Cayeux-sur-Mer. Tracks traverse protected salt marshes and coastal landscapes located within a designated Grand Site de France. The Port station is situated directly on the waterfront, acting as a functional terminal for excursions into the Somme estuary. Visitors board authentic restored wooden carriages for transit between these coastal destinations. The railway is managed as a preservation project by a dedicated non-profit organization focused on maintaining regional industrial heritage. It functions as both a tourist attraction and a bridge between the historical maritime towns of the estuary.
The station platform at the moment the steam engine arrives or departs against the backdrop of the harbor.
Book tickets online in advance during peak summer months to guarantee a seat on the steam-hauled trains.
Arrive at the platform at least 30 minutes before departure to observe the locomotive coupling and steaming process.
Choose a seat on the side of the carriage facing the sea for the best views of the salt marshes and harbor.
Do not attempt to purchase tickets on the train itself; all tickets must be processed at the station office.
Operations are highly seasonal; daily service is standard during the summer months, while the service is restricted to weekends and holidays during the off-season.
Avoid leaning out of open-window carriages while the train is in motion to prevent contact with debris.
