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Beaches and ponds #4 in Cherbourg-Octeville

Port Chantereyne

4.4 · 1,743 reviews
A bustling and functional maritime hub
Port Chantereyne, Bureau du port de plaisance Port Chantereyne, 50100 Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France
Interesting facts
1

The marina is protected by the 'Grande Rade,' an artificial breakwater spanning 4.2 kilometers, built during the 18th and 19th centuries.

2

It is the starting point for the famous Fastnet Race on various occasions due to its deep-water capabilities.

3

The harbor basin covers approximately 15 hectares of water space.

4

The port features an automated tidal gate system that ensures constant access for deep-draft vessels.

5

It is a designated 'Pavillon Bleu' harbor, indicating high standards for environmental management and water quality.

6

The port was constructed in the 1970s to revitalize the former military and commercial harbor zones of Cherbourg.

Overview

Port Chantereyne is one of the largest deep-water marinas in France, located within the protected harbor of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin. The marina provides over 1,500 berths for recreational vessels and yachts, shielded by one of the largest artificial breakwaters in the world. It serves as a primary transit point for sailors crossing the English Channel between France and the United Kingdom. The harbor complex is integrated with urban facilities, providing direct access to the city center and the Cité de la Mer maritime museum. It hosts international sailing regattas and provides professional maintenance services for various classes of yachts. The site operates year-round with tidal-independent access due to its deep-water design. It is situated on the Cotentin Peninsula, historically significant for maritime logistics and military navigation.

Photo spot

The elevated walkway near the Cité de la Mer overlooking the dense grid of yacht masts.

Insider tips

Walk the breakwater area nearby to observe the scale of the artificial harbor defenses.

Check the local wind conditions, as the channel area can experience significant gusts even on clear days.

Visit the adjacent Cité de la Mer museum to understand the historical context of the harbor.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk onto private boarding piers restricted to yacht owners as they are secured with badge access.

Etiquette

Maintain respect for private boat owners by keeping walkways clear and avoiding boarding docks without authorization.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late afternoon during the summer months to view the sunset over the masts against the harbor walls.
Address
Port Chantereyne, Bureau du port de plaisance Port Chantereyne, 50100 Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France
49.646, -1.624
Get directions
Details
Berth Capacity1,500+
Harbor ProtectionWorld's second-largest artificial roadstead

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon during the summer months to view the sunset over the masts against the harbor walls..

The elevated walkway near the Cité de la Mer overlooking the dense grid of yacht masts.

Close by you'll find La Cité de la Mer, Thomas Henry Museum, Equestrian Statue of Napoléon I.