Bassin du Commerce

Bassin du Commerce lies in the heart of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin in Normandy and, together with the avant-port, forms the maritime heart of the town. The basin was built during the 18th and 19th centuries and allowed ships to dock right next to the town, which helped the fishing industry develop. It is bordered by Quai Alexandre III and Quai de l'Entrepôt, and the quays still retain their original appearance today.

The basin is part of the municipal marina Port Chantereyne, but it is reserved for permanent berth holders. It is reached through a swing bridge, and vessels over 25 metres can, after prior contact and booking with the harbour office in Cherbourg, be granted a berth in Bassin du Commerce, as the bridge opens one hour before and one hour after high tide. Contact with the harbour office is on VHF channel 12.

The basin sits right in Cherbourg's historic town centre, where you'll find the town's old "Café de Paris", which still exists today by the old avant-port. From the basin it is a short walk to the town's historic quarters and attractions.

If you're sailing a larger vessel over 25 metres, a berth right in the historic heart of Cherbourg could make for a memorable stop.