Sailing in the North Sea and the English Channel: Complete Guide
The English Channel and the North Sea are among the most captivating sailing destinations in the world. While exploring them can be a challenge for less experienced sailors, these waters offer exceptional coastal landscapes, dotted with picturesque ports and majestic estuaries.
The English Channel and the North Sea attract more those in search of adventure than those simply seeking peaceful sea vacations.
This region can present dangers in certain areas and does not offer as many port infrastructures as the French Riviera. Depending on the season, the winds and currents can be quite strong.
The sailing season in the English Channel and the North Sea generally extends from May to October. The winter months are marked by strong winds and low temperatures, so it is preferable to visit during the summer when the weather is milder and the sea calmer.
This region offers a wealth of tourist attractions, with historical sites, magnificent natural landscapes, and delicious regional cuisine. Cities like Calais and Dunkirk, located near the coast, also offer opportunities for land exploration. To fully explore the English Channel and the North Sea, plan for at least four weeks.
In this guide, we will review the most popular ports and villages in this maritime region, explaining why each destination is worth visiting and providing the necessary information to navigate safely (access to marinas, available facilities, practical tips).
Dunkirk
What to do in Dunkirk?
Besides its port activity, Dunkirk offers visitors a multitude of tourist attractions. History enthusiasts can explore the city's rich past by visiting sites such as the port museum, the war museum, and the fine arts museum. For an authentic cultural experience, don't miss strolling through the picturesque streets of the Malo-les-Bains district and admiring its typical architecture. Moreover, Dunkirk's fine sandy beaches are ideal for a day of relaxation by the sea.
Sailing in Dunkirk
The 3rd largest commercial port in France, Dunkirk has two marinas accessible to recreational boaters, offering basic services for sailors. In addition to these marinas, the city also offers boat rental services and sea excursions for those wishing to explore the surroundings from the water. Despite the intense commercial activity of the port, access is possible in all weather, making it a convenient stopover for travelers.
- Website: http://www.dunkerque-port.fr/
Gravelines
What to do in Gravelines?
Gravelines, with its impressive ramparts built by Vauban, is a true architectural gem. Visitors can walk along the ramparts and discover the fascinating history of this fortified town. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the many museums and historical sites in the city, such as the Museum of Drawing and Original Print or the Heritage House.
Sailing in Gravelines
The marina of Gravelines offers a safe haven for boaters, with modern facilities available all year round. Explore the charming streets of the town and soak up its unique maritime atmosphere. In addition to the marina, Gravelines also offers boat rental services and sea excursions for those who wish to discover the coast from the water.
- Website: www.portvaubangravelines.com
Calais
What to do in Calais?
Calais is much more than just a crossing point to England; it is a destination in its own right. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich historical heritage by visiting iconic sites such as the Lace Museum and the Watchtower. Be sure to enjoy the breathtaking view of the English Channel from the city's cliffs, offering a striking panorama of the turbulent waters.
Sailing in Calais
The marina of Calais offers boaters a safe haven and comprehensive services, although access may be regulated due to the intense maritime traffic. Be attentive to strong currents and ferries sailing in the region during your navigation. In addition to the marina, Calais also offers nautical activities such as sailing and jet-skiing, providing sailors with a complete maritime experience. Take advantage of the proximity to England to consider day trips or cross-channel cruises to the British coasts.
- Website: www.portboulognecalais.fr
Boulogne-sur-Mer
What to do in Boulogne-sur-Mer?
Boulogne-sur-Mer is a city rich in history and culture. Visitors can dive into the medieval atmosphere by exploring the cobbled streets of the old town and discovering iconic sites such as the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Boulogne Castle. Don't miss the chance to taste fresh seafood in one of the many restaurants in the city, offering an authentic culinary experience with a view of the sea.
Sailing in Boulogne
The Boulogne marina offers a safe haven for boaters, with modern facilities available year-round. Explore the picturesque surroundings of the city and discover the beauty of the coast from the sea. In addition to the marina, Boulogne also offers boat trips and nautical activities for those who wish to explore the surrounding waters further. Be aware of marine currents and changing weather conditions when sailing along the coast.
- Website: www.boulogne-marina.fr
Berck-sur-Mer
What to do in Berck?
Berck-sur-Mer offers visitors an authentic seaside experience with its vast fine sandy beaches and picturesque dunes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy long walks along the coastline, sunbathing sessions on the beach, or even engage in water sports such as land sailing. The city also houses cultural attractions such as the Berck-sur-Mer museum, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the region.
Sailing in Berck
Although Berck is not primarily known for its marina, it nevertheless offers a safe haven for sailors wishing to explore the northern coast of France. The neighboring ports offer more complete facilities for boaters.
- Website: www.boulogne-marina.fr
Dieppe
What to do in Dieppe?
Dieppe, a historic port city, is full of charm with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and its magnificent seafront. Visitors can explore the Dieppe Castle Museum, enjoy fresh seafood in one of the many harbor restaurants, or simply stroll along the lively docks. The beach of Dieppe is also ideal for relaxing and enjoying the summer sun.
Sailing in Dieppe
The port of Dieppe has two main basins: the commercial basin and the pleasure basin. The pleasure basin, specially designed for boaters, offers easy access to the Channel and is equipped with modern floating pontoons for mooring pleasure boats. Boaters also benefit from the presence of qualified professionals for assistance with mooring and port maneuvers. It is important to note that the port of Dieppe is subject to significant tides, with sometimes strong currents in the port area.
- Website: www.portdedieppe.fr
Fécamp
What to do in Fécamp?
Fécamp, famous for its fishing port and maritime history, offers visitors a multitude of activities to discover. Dive into the past by exploring the Benedictine Museum to learn more about the city's iconic liqueur, or visit the impressive Bénédictine Palace, a true architectural gem. Also enjoy the picturesque beaches of Fécamp for a day of relaxation by the sea and a refreshing swim.
Sailing in Fécamp
The marina of Fécamp warmly welcomes boaters with modern facilities and a safe haven, offering an ideal anchorage point along the Normandy coast. Although access may be limited by low tides, sailors will find all the necessary services for a comfortable stopover, including fuel refueling services and repair facilities. Take the opportunity to explore the surroundings of Fécamp from the sea and admire the magnificent cliffs and coastal landscapes of the region.
- Website: www.portdefecamp.fr
Le Havre
What to do in Le Havre?
Le Havre, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a city rich in history and culture. Delve into the past by exploring the city's historical sites, including the landing beaches and the André Malraux Museum of Modern Art, which houses an impressive collection of 20th-century European artworks. Don't miss the chance to taste local specialties in one of the many restaurants in the city, where you can savor fresh seafood and regional dishes.
Sailing in Le Havre
The marina of Le Havre offers boaters convenient access to the English Channel and modern facilities year-round. Take advantage of this stopover to explore the picturesque surroundings of the city and discover the beauty of the coast from the sea. In addition to the marina, Le Havre also offers nautical activities such as sailing and kayaking, providing sailors with a complete maritime experience along the Normandy coast. Be aware of marine currents and changing weather conditions during your navigation in the region.
- Website: www.lehavreplaisance.com
- More information: Real-time webcam
Honfleur
What to do in Honfleur?
Honfleur, with its charming picturesque port, is a must-visit destination for visitors. Immerse yourself in the maritime atmosphere by strolling along the city's lively quays, where you will discover numerous art galleries and local craft shops offering unique works and authentic souvenirs. Don't miss visiting the Sainte-Catherine church, a unique wooden church that testifies to the region's rich historical heritage.
Sailing in Honfleur
The Honfleur marina offers sailors a safe haven and comprehensive services all year round, and two slipways for taking boats out of the water.
Take advantage of this stopover to explore the picturesque surroundings of the city from the sea and discover the beauty of the Normandy coast. In addition to the marina, Honfleur also offers boat trips and water activities for those who wish to explore the surrounding waters further. Be aware of marine currents and changing weather conditions when sailing along the coast.
- Website: www.portsducalvados.fr/ports/honfleur
- More information: real-time webcam
Cherbourg
What to do in Cherbourg?
Cherbourg, a historic maritime port, is full of attractions for visitors. Explore the city's rich naval heritage by visiting la Cité de la Mer, a captivating maritime museum that houses former submarines and offers interactive exhibitions on the history of navigation. Also, don't miss discovering the natural beauty of the region by walking along the picturesque quays or venturing into the surroundings to admire the spectacular coastal landscapes.
Sailing in Cherbourg
The Cherbourg marina, located in one of the largest natural harbors in the world, offers yachtsmen much more than just a safe haven. The port facilities include modern pontoons equipped with electrical and water connections, clean and well-maintained sanitary facilities, as well as fuel and supply services nearby. Moreover, the port has repair and maintenance services for boats, with qualified professionals available to meet the needs of sailors. As for the sailing conditions, the waters around Cherbourg can be influenced by strong marine currents and tide variations.
- Website: www.cherbourg-port.fr
Saint-Malo
What to do in Saint-Malo?
Saint-Malo, famous for its ramparts and corsair history, is a must-visit destination in Brittany. Visitors can get lost in the alleys of the old town, visit the Saint-Malo castle or explore the fortifications that offer breathtaking views of the sea. Also enjoy the golden sandy beaches and nautical activities such as sailing or kayaking.
Sailing in Saint-Malo
Anchored in the heart of the famous corsair city, the port of Saint-Malo offers yachtsmen a total immersion in the maritime history of the region. Yachtsmen will find comprehensive services on-site, including repair and maintenance equipment, as well as shops and restaurants nearby. Since Saint-Malo is subject to significant tides and sometimes strong currents, plan entries and exits according to them to avoid navigation difficulties. Additionally, the presence of shoals and rocks around the city requires special attention when navigating near the coasts.
- Website: www.saintmalo-cancale.port.bzh
Saint-Brieuc
What to do in Saint-Brieuc?
Saint-Brieuc, a dynamic city located on the north coast of Brittany, offers visitors a mix of history, culture, and nature. Attractions include Saint-Étienne Cathedral, the Saint-Brieuc Museum of Art and History, as well as the beautiful beaches of the region. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy hiking on the coastal trails or engaging in water sports such as windsurfing.
Sailing in Saint-Brieuc
The Port of Légué, once a major site for Newfoundland fishing, now hosts a multitude of pleasure boats. Boaters can enjoy the modern facilities of the port to dock their vessels and explore the Bay of Saint-Brieuc. The more adventurous can even venture to the lock to sail on the Gouët River. The maritime atmosphere is palpable, between the colorful sailboats, local fishermen, and the seagulls swirling above the waves. Thrill-seekers can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the surroundings from a different perspective.
ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT BOATING AND RIB BOATS?
Discover our products!
Read more about the world of RIBs:
- The best accessories for RIB boats
- Preparing your inflatable boat for launch
- Inflation guide for your semi-rigid inflatable boat
- What safety equipment for semi-rigid boats?