Marennes Oléron

Cruising around Fort Boyard: how to make the most of it?

Written by Alizé
June 30. 2025
Cruising around Fort Boyard: how to make the most of it?

Slow Village invites you to discover the legendary Fort Boyard on an unforgettable cruise off the coast of Charente-Maritime! With family or friends, experience an adventure in nature, heritage and wide open spaces.

From our open-air hotel in Marennes, near the Ile d'Oléron and Fort Boyard, enjoy a comfortable stay andunforgettable sea excursions. Guided cruises, stopovers on the Ile d'Aix, catamaran outings... we'll help you choose the ideal formula and book your trip around France's most famous fort with ease.

Why take a cruise to Fort Boyard?

A true icon of the Atlantic coast, Fort Boyard can't be visited... it can only be contemplated from the sea. Embark on a cruise around this monument, and experience a unique blend of heritage, seascapes and shared moments. Here's why this excursion attracts half a million visitors every year.

A mythical monument off the coast of Charente-Maritime

Between the islands of Aix and Oléron, Fort Boyard sits enthroned in the middle of the waves, a true feat of engineering built in the 19th century. Long inaccessible to the public, it now attracts the curious and history buffs thanks to the many cruises offered around the site. Immortalized by the TV show of the same name, it has become a regional landmark.

An original experience combining history, the sea and adventure

Embark on a cruise to Fort Boyard and enjoy a slow-tourism experience combining heritage, seascapes and shared moments. Aboard a traditional boat or a modern catamaran, each crossing offers a unique view of the fort, sometimes with the benefit of enriching commentary from the guides or audioguides on board.

An ideal activity for families and friends

Accessible to all ages, the cruise around Fort Boyard is a convivial activity that appeals to children and adults alike. It's the perfect opportunity to share a fun, instructive and exotic moment during your vacation. And to extend the pleasure, our open-air hotel offers family accommodation 24 kilometers from one of the departure ports, Boyardville in Oléron.

What kind of cruises are available?

There are several ways to approach Fort Boyard from the sea, depending on your wishes, budget and length of stay. A simple cruise, a stopover on the Ile d'Aix, a catamaran outing... each formula offers a different experience for admiring the fort up close and enjoying the beauty of the Charente coastline. For all the cruises presented, you can depart from :

  • Fouras-les-Bains,
  • La Rochelle,
  • Ile d'Oléron (Boyardville)

Single cruise around the Fort (non-stop)

This is the most direct and accessible way to discover Fort Boyard. Aboard a passenger boat, you'll set off on a guided tour ofaround 1h30, during which the fort is gradually revealed on the horizon. The captains will suggest the best vantage points for unforgettable photos, while sharing anecdotes about its construction and military history. Depending on the port of departure and the ambience you're looking for, several local companies offer peaceful cruises around Fort Boyard, each offering its own unique take on this mythical monument:

  • Inter-island cruises
    Departure from La Rochelle, Fouras or Ile d'Oléron. Approx. 1h30 cruise with commentary on board and direct view of the Fort.
    inter-iles.com
  • Navipromer
    Leaving from Boyardville (Ile d'Oléron), a 1.5-hour tour with audio-guide and upper deck.
  • Boyard Cruise
    Departure from Boyardville (Ile d'Oléron). 1.5-hour excursion with close-up view of Fort Boyard and live info.

Good to know : These cruises do not include disembarkation, but offer a complete immersion experience around the Fort. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during school vacations.

Cruise with stopover on the island of Aix

For those wishing to enhance their outing at sea, some companies offer a cruise around Fort Boyard , with a free stopover on Île d'Aix, a listed natural gem. With this option, you can admire the Fort up close and then spend several hours on land, strolling, cycling, visiting the Napoleonic museum or simply enjoying the beaches:

  • Inter-island cruises
    Departing from La Rochelle, Fouras or l'Île d'Oléron, we offer several options, from 4 to 7 hours depending on your preferences. The cruise includes a guided visit at sea and a free stopover on the Ile d'Aix, to take your time discovering this little jewel between beaches and heritage.
  • Navipromer
    Departing from Boyardville (Oléron), this 4-hour cruise combines a maritime approach to Fort Boyard with a stopover on Île d'Aix. Allow between 2h30 and 3h to stroll around on foot or by bike, before gently setting sail again.

Good to know: Ile d'Aix is pedestrian-only, so you can get around on foot or by bike (rental available on site or via the bike rental in Marennes). Don't forget your comfortable shoes, water, cap and camera!

Catamaran or old rigging outing

For a more unusual, comfortable or immersive experience, several companies offer cruises aboard modern catamarans or traditional sailboats (vieux gréements). This is an original way to cruise to Fort Boyard, often in small groups, in a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Some trips even include an aperitif on board, or a return trip at sunset:

  • Boyard Prestige Cruise
    From Saint-Denis-d'Oléron, come aboard a sailboat or an old sailing ship for a 2h30 to 3h cruise. Sailing is done in the traditional way, with anecdotes shared by the crew and a gentle approach to the Fort.
  • The Hermione Experience
    Departing from Rochefort (depending on events), this outing on an emblematic old sailing ship plunges you into maritime history. Half a day of themed sailing, punctuated by maneuvers and stories from the past.

Good to know : Places on these boats are limited, so we recommend that you to book several days in advanceespecially for sunset slots.

What can you see on your cruise?

A cruise around Fort Boyard is more than just a mythical offshore monument: it's also an exceptional panorama of the Charente islands and, sometimes, encounters with the local marine fauna. Each itinerary has its own surprises in store!

Fort Boyard, of course... but that's not all!

At the center of attention, Fort Boyard impresses with its massive structure and singular history. But sailing around it, passengers also enjoy splendid views of :

  • Aix Island, a small, wild and listed treasure
  • Île Madame, more discreet but full of charm
  • The island of Oléron, the largest, with its famous Chassiron lighthouse
  • The harbour of the Charente estuary, between military forts, sandy beaches and marshes

At sea, keep an eye out for seagulls, terns and cormorants, and if you're lucky, even dolphins in the Pertuis d'Antioche!

The Fort's secrets told live

Each cruise around Fort Boyard is also an opportunity to learn a thousand things about the Fort:

  • Its incredible construction on a sandbank in the 19th century
  • His abandonment, then his media renaissance with the cult TV show
  • Anecdotes from the shoot, behind-the-scenes secrets, and sometimes... a few unsolved mysteries!

Commentary is provided live by enthusiastic guides, or via audioguides available on board. A real plus for young and old alike, who leave with their heads full of memories.

Practical tips for your cruise to Fort Boyard

To make the most of your outing at sea, a minimum of preparation is essential. Here are our top tips for choosing the right time, making the right reservation, getting the right equipment and setting off with peace of mind!

When is the best time to leave?

Cruises to Fort Boyard are available from March to October, with peak demand in July and August. To avoid the crowds and enjoy the fine weather, choose :

  • May-June: mild climate, few tourists
  • September: superb light, calmer atmosphere

How to book a cruise and at what price?

Prices vary according to the formula chosen:

  • Single cruise: from €18 / adult
  • With stopover on the island of Aix: between €25 and €40
  • Catamaran or sailboat trip: €35 to €60 depending on duration

It is strongly recommended to book online (especially in summer) via the service providers' websites. Departures are staggered from morning until sunset.

What to take on board

Here are the essentials to slip into your bag:

  • Windbreaker or lightweight sweatshirt, even in summer: it's cooler at sea
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen, especially in the afternoon
  • Camera or binoculars for island and bird watching
  • A small bottle of water, especially for longer outings

Boats are equipped with toilets, but not always with refreshment facilities: make sure you have everything you need, especially with children.

Is the cruise suitable for children and people with reduced mobility?

Yes, most cruises are accessible to families with children aged 2-3 and over.
Decks are safe, and trips are relatively short to avoid seasickness.

  • Foldable strollers authorized on board (depending on airline)
  • Storytelling cruises and special children's events on offer from time to time
  • For people with reduced mobility, some companies have adapted boats (e.g. Inter-Îles). It is advisable to call ahead to check access conditions.

Our accommodation to extend your adventure

What if your cruise to Fort Boyard became the starting point for an unforgettable nature holiday? Our open-air hotel welcomes you close to the landing stages, for a vacation combining comfort, freedom and the great outdoors.

Wooden cottages: top-of-the-range, fully-equipped accommodation (2 to 4 bedrooms), ideal for holidays with family or friends.

Cabanes: cozy and intimate, they invite you to relax in a protected natural environment, often close to the water or high up.

Tiny Houses: small, eco-friendly, designer homes that appeal for their originality and closeness to nature.

Classic mobile homes: comfortable, functional and well-appointed, perfect for carefree family vacations.

Marennes Oléron
Cottage Premium 3ch.

Enjoy a fully-equipped, upscale 3-bedroom wooden cottage. Each premium accommodation has 2 bathrooms, so everyone has their own space!

40 m²
3 ea.
6 pers.
2 bathrooms.
Discover
Marennes Oléron
Classique Confort 2ch.

Our Classic Comfort 2-bedroom mobile home has everything you need for a relaxing stay!

25 m²
2 bdrms
4 pers.
1 bathroom.
Discover
Marennes Oléron
Cottage Signature 3bed.

Experience an upscale stay in our 3-bedroom Signature cottage. With its 2 bathrooms and large terrace, live the Slow Life for the duration of your vacation!

40 m²
3 ea.
6 pers.
2 bathrooms.
Discover
Marennes Oléron
Cabane Insolite - Studio

Discover our unusual fisherman's hut, a typical and authentic accommodation, ideal for a stopover on the Vélodyssée or a stay in Charente-Maritime.

12 m²
1 bdrm
2 pers.
1 bathroom.
Discover
 

FAQ - Everything you need to know before booking your cruise to Fort Boyard

Is it possible to visit the inside of Fort Boyard?

No, the interior of the Fort is not open to the public, as it is a listed historic monument and has not been fitted out for visitors. Cruises allow you to get as close as possible by boat and observe it from every angle from the sea.

How much does a cruise around Fort Boyard cost ?

Prices vary according to the type of cruise:

  • Approximately €18 to €25 per adult for a non-stop single cruise
  • 25 to 40 € with stopover on the island of Aix
  • Up to €60 for catamaran or sailboat trips, which are often more exclusive.

Reduced rates are available for children and families.

How long does a sea trip last ?

Most cruises last between 1h15 and 1h30 (non-stop). Formulas with a stopover on the Ile d'Aix or by old rigging can last from 4 to 7 hours, including free time ashore.

Are there sunset cruises?

Yes! Several companies, notably catamaran and old rigging companies, offer departures at the end of the day to admire the Fort in the golden light of evening. A magical experience, often accompanied by an aperitif on board.

What to discover on your cruise to fort boyard

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Lilleau des Niges nature reserve

The Ile de Ré is located on a major bird migration route between Africa and the Arctic. Its natural areas are therefore particularly valuable, as they are likely to be home to a large number of bird species. At the tip of the island, in the heart of the Fier d'Ars marshes and mudflats, the Lilleau des Niges reserve was created in 1980 with the aim of preserving this biodiversity.

Léa
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If you love local produce and a friendly atmosphere, don't miss the Marennes market. Three times a week, it immerses you in the local produce of the Charente region in the heart of the Place des Halles.

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