La Rochelle France
80
Cruises availables
At departure or passage at this port
Azamara Club Cruises (2 Cruises)
Cunard (6 Cruises)
MSC Cruises (24 Cruises)
Norwegian Cruise Line (3 Cruises)
Oceania Cruises (20 Cruises)
Oceania Insignia
6 Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises (19 Cruises)
Seven Seas Mariner
11 Cruises
Frequently Asked Questions
At La Pallice, the deep-water mole six kilometres from the old town. The historic Vieux-Port is too shallow for cruise ships.
Yes, it is essential. The ride takes about fifteen minutes and drops passengers near the tourist office. There is nothing to see on foot around the industrial mole.
It depends on the line. Some provide it free, others charge around ten euros. Carry cash if yours does not include it.
There are three and all can be visited. The Saint-Nicolas and Chaîne towers frame the entrance to the Vieux-Port; the Lanterne tower, a former prison, stands a little to the west. Combined tickets are sold on site.
Its walls carry graffiti carved by centuries of prisoners, sailors and privateers. The upper galleries of all three towers open onto a panorama of the harbour, the slate roofs and the islands offshore.
Take the shuttle, then the harbour towers, the arcaded streets and the covered market halls. Then choose between the Aquarium and a boat trip: both in one call is too tight.
Yes, it is one of the largest in Europe. Allow about 1 hour 30 across two levels: sharks, jellyfish, turtles and a tropical greenhouse. It is a few minutes on foot from the Vieux-Port and rescues a rainy day.
Yes, boat excursions leave from the historic harbour depending on the season. Check the last shuttle back to La Pallice before committing.
Very easy. The centre is flat and compact, ideal on foot or by bike. The shopping streets run beneath stone arcades that shelter you from both rain and sun.
Seafood, served on terraces facing the sailing boats. The central market halls offer fish, oysters and Charentais cheeses if you would rather build a picnic.
