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Sea outing on the Opal Coast in the Bay of Canches
between medieval city, wilderness and seal encounters
1 day
Fill up on discoveries
Transport
We organize your transport by coach, train or plane
Circuit découverte
Afin de vous permettre de découvrir, une région ou un village, nous vous proposons des circuits organisés
Price upon request
Groups
All-inclusive prices for small and large groups
With guide
You won't miss a single detail - they know their subject inside out.
French
English
Other languages on request
English
Other languages on request
An escape between heritage and wide open spaces
The Côte d’Opale sea trip in the Bay of Canche offers a complete experience combining cultural discovery, natural immersion and relaxation. This one-day tour allows you to explore a rich and contrasting territory, between fortified city, wild estuary and unique maritime landscapes.
On this tour, visitors discover one of the most unspoilt areas of the Pas-de-Calais coastline, where history and nature meet in harmony.
Montreuil-sur-Mer: a medieval town steeped in history
First stop on the route, Montreuil-sur-Mer is an emblematic town on the Côte d’Opale, perched high above the Canche valley.
Despite the particle “sur-mer”, this small medieval town is not located by the sea. In fact, Montreuil-sur-Mer, linked to the royal domain in 987, became the Capetian’s only seaport until the sand clogged the Canche in 1204.
Once a strategic port for the kingdom, the town went into gradual decline as the river silted up, putting an end to its maritime activity.
Today, Montreuil-sur-Mer has many attractions:
- Remarkably well-preserved ramparts and fortifications
- Its citadel, redesigned by Vauban
- Its cobbled streets and ancient houses
Steeped in history, the town also inspired Victor Hugo to write Les Misérables, reinforcing its cultural and literary aura.
The Bay of the Canche: a wild and unspoilt estuary
After discovering Montreuil, head for the Bay of the Canche, one of the Opal Coast’s most distinctive estuaries.
This exceptional natural site is distinguished by :
- Its dunes and sandbanks
- Its salt marshes and meadows
- Remarkable biodiversity
The bay is a major ecological area, home to numerous species of migratory birds and a rich fauna.
Shaped by the tides, wind and ocean currents, it offers ever-changing landscapes between land and sea.
The Bay of the Canche: embark on a unique cruise
A highlight of the day, the cruise in the Bay of Canche offers a unique opportunity to discover the estuary.
Aboard a comfortable boat, visitors enjoy a 45-minute cruise through spectacular scenery.
This walk offers :
- A breathtaking view of the estuary
- Immerse yourself in an unspoilt natural environment
- A moment of relaxation and contemplation
With friendly commentary, the cruise provides a better understanding of this unique ecosystem and the region’s maritime history.
Meet the seals: an unforgettable experience
One of the most eagerly awaited moments of the outing is the observation of seals in the Bay of Canche.
These marine mammals find an ideal habitat in the estuary, where they rest on sandbanks or move about in the calm waters.
Two species can be observed:
- Calf seal
- The grey seal
During the cruise, they can sometimes be seen basking in the sun or swimming close to the boat.
Even if their presence is never guaranteed, their observation is a magical moment, particularly appreciated by children and adults alike.
A nature experience between land and sea
More than just a cruise, the Baie de la Canche offers complete immersion in an exceptional natural environment.
Visitors can enjoy :
- A wealth of flora and fauna
- Landscapes changing with the tides
- A soothing, rejuvenating atmosphere
This natural dimension makes the outing an ideal experience for reconnecting with the essentials.
Why choose a sea trip in the Bay of Canche?
Opting for this Côte d’Opale getaway means choosing a complete experience that’s accessible to all.
It enables :
- Discover an emblematic medieval city
- Sail in an exceptional natural setting
- Observe marine life, especially seals
- A friendly day out with a change of scenery
Combining heritage, nature and emotion, this outing is a unique experience in northern France.
An immersive and accessible day
Easily accessible from Paris and the major cities of the north, this tour is suitable for all audiences: groups, families or nature lovers.
It’s an invitation to discover the Côte d’Opale in a different way, with its history, landscapes and unforgettable moments.
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Questions fréquentes (FAQ)
Why isn't Montreuil-sur-Mer by the sea?
Despite its name, Montreuil-sur-Mer is no longer a seaside town. In the Middle Ages, however, the town was a strategic seaport for the Capetian kingdom. Over time, the gradual silting-up of the Canche river pushed the sea further away, transforming the town into an inland city. Today, this historical particularity makes it a unique site, combining its maritime past with its medieval heritage.
What can you see on a sea trip in the Bay of Canche?
A sea trip in the Bay of Canche allows you to discover an unspoilt estuary of dunes, marshes and sandbanks. The cruise offers exceptional panoramic views of the Opal Coast and the chance to observe numerous species of birds and seals. It's an ideal activity for nature lovers, photographers and seascape enthusiasts.
Can you really see seals in the Bay of Canche?
Yes, it is possible to observe seals in the Bay of Canche, especially on organized cruises. These animals often rest on the estuary's sandbanks. However, their presence depends on natural conditions and tides, making each sighting unique. Nevertheless, excursions offer excellent chances of seeing them in their natural habitat.
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