Cherbourg (Mt St Michel)
Cherbourg’s bustling modern port belies the quiet beauty of the Norman countryside and the events which, more than 50 years ago, made Normandy’s beaches the bloodiest battlefield in Europe. The city is located on the tip of a peninsula and two lagoons protect it from the sea. To the south its natural defense is the very dense forest of Brix. The coast is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts keen on discovering old sunken merchant ships.
Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life
EXPLORING FAMOUS MONT-SAINT-MICHEL
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Your excursion to Mont-Saint-Michel begins with a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive through the Normandy countryside. The island has been a pilgrimage site since the early 8th century, when, according to legend, a bishop from a nearby hilltop town claimed that the Archangel Michael appeared to him, instructing him to build a church there.<-p> It takes about 45 minutes to reach Mont-Saint-Michel from the mainland parking area, via a shuttle and short walk. There¿s then a guided tour lasting approximately 90 minutes, during which you¿ll visit the Benedictine abbey and the church, and explore the ramparts for views over the bay. You¿ll also be able to enjoy strolling through the abbey gardens.<-p> Afterwards, there¿s approximately one hour set aside for lunch, which can be purchased (at guests¿ own expense) at one of the many cafes or restaurants around the area. This hour can also be used to browse the shops and pick up souvenirs. It¿s then time for the return shuttle back to your vehicle, lasting 45 minutes or so, before a drive of around two and a half hours back to the port.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>As the tour involves walking uphill on uneven ground and using stairs, it is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. Limited number of guides in languages other than French. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in French only. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the religious visits. You may have to queue at the car park to pick up the shuttle to reach the site. Guests are advised to bring local currency, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>
COASTAL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SAIRE VALLEY, INCLUDING BARFLEUR
Excursion details<-strong><-p> The Saire Valley is a popular coastal region in Normandy known for its historic ports and maritime traditions. Learn about both while immersing yourself in seaside scenery on this excursion.<-p> The journey begins with a roughly 45-minute transfer to Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue. This picturesque fishing village sits on the northeastern tip of the Cotentin Peninsula. You¿ll have around 45 minutes to explore Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, including a guided visit and some free time, which is renowned for its oysters and the Vauban de la Hougue tower, a¿UNESCO World Heritage Site.<-p> Next, it¿s an approximately 30-minute drive to Barfleur, a traditional fishing port overlooking the English Channel. With its sturdy granite houses and inviting harbourfront restaurants, Barfleur is often claimed to be one of France¿s prettiest villages and is known for its traditional Norman architecture. You¿ll have around 30 minutes to stroll through the village and soak up the atmosphere, as well as enjoying views across the mussel beds and out to sea.<-p> Next is a drive of around 30 minutes that takes you over to the Gatteville Lighthouse, the second highest lighthouse in France at over 75 metres tall. There¿s an approximately 15-minute photo stop to grab pictures of this imposing landmark before the roughly 45-minute journey back to Cherbourg.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>limited number of guides in languages other than French. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French only. This tour is unsuitable for guests using a wheelchair. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>
A SECOND WORLD WAR MEMORIAL TOUR, INCLUDING OMAHA BEACH
Excursion details<-strong><-p> This history-focused excursion explores several key events of the Second World War, beginning with a drive of around 75 minutes to the Normandy American Cemetery. Overlooking Omaha Beach, the cemetery commemorates the American soldiers who fell during the D-Day landings of June 6, 1944, a pivotal time that helped turn the tide of the war, and the fighting that followed.<-p> The cemetery is the final resting place of nearly 9.400 American soldiers. During an approximately hour-long visit you¿ll explore the visitor centre, walk along the Walls of the Missing and take in the rows of thousands of headstones. Next, it¿s a transfer of 15 minutes or so to Omaha Beach, the most well-known of the five D-Day landing sites, due to the particularly gruelling battle that took place there. You¿ll have about 15 minutes to pause and reflect, and to take photos if you wish.<-p> From Omaha, you¿ll drive for around 30 minutes to Pointe du Hoc, the dramatic promontory that once teemed with German bunkers and machine gun posts. A roughly 45-minute guided walking tour brings to life the battle that unfolded here. Afterwards, it¿s a coach transfer of approximately one hour back to the port at Cherbourg.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>limited number of guides in languages other than French. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French only. This tour is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties. As the tour involves walking on uneven ground, it is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children travelling on the lap.<-p>
A TRIP TO THE ¿EDGE OF THE WORLD¿: CAP DE LA HAGUE
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Explore the Cap de la Hague headland and begin with an approximately 30-minute drive along the Normandy coast, passing the seaside village of Urville-Nacqueville. From there, reach Port Racine, often dubbed the ¿smallest port in France¿ after additional 30 minutes on the coach and enjoy around 15 minutes to take photos. This was a favourite spot of the poet Jacques Prévert, who owned a house not far away in Omonville-la-Petite.<-p> Next, continue for around 20 minutes to Cap de la Hague, the rugged headland at the tip of Normandy¿s Cotentin Peninsula. Famous for its windswept cliffs and impressive coastal scenery, it¿s sometimes called ¿the edge of the world¿ due to its raw beauty. You¿ll spend around 35 minutes here, which includes both a guided tour (featuring Goury, the site of a small harbour known for its lighthouse and lifeboat station) and some free time.<-p> The final stop of the tour is reached after a transfer of 20 minutes or so to Nez de Jobourg, a striking granite headland with cliffs plunging into the English Channel, where you¿ll have around 45 minutes to take in the views and capture them on camera. It¿s then an approximately 45-minute coach transfer back to Cherbourg.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>This tour is unsuitable for guest using a wheelchair. Limited number of guides in languages other than French. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French only. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children travelling on the lap.<-p>
UNGUIDED TRANSFER TO MAGICAL MONT-SAINT-MICHEL
Excursion details<-strong><-p> A rocky tidal island and commune famous for its dramatic Benedictine abbey and impressive ramparts, Mont-Saint-Michel more than lives up to its reputation as ¿the Wonder of the West¿. This excursion allows you to wander around the UNESCO World Heritage Site at your leisure.<-p> The tour starts with a journey of about two and a half hours from the port at Cherbourg, travelling south through the Normandy countryside and providing a scenic start to the excursion. There¿s then a shuttle transfer of about 45 minutes to Mont-Saint-Michel¿s ramparts. These were largely constructed during the 14th and 15th centuries, with some sections that date back even further, like the 13th-century North Tower.<-p> You¿ll have approximately two and half hours of free time to wander independently through Mont-Saint-Michel and soak up its history. A highlight of any visit is the island¿s abbey, which dates back to the early 8th century, when it¿s said that the Archangel Michael appeared to a local bishop, instructing him to establish a sanctuary in his name. In 966, the Duke of Normandy founded a Benedictine community, which led to the construction of the abbey.<-p> Another highlight is walking along the ramparts, where you¿ll be treated to views across Mont-Saint-Michel Bay and the abbey gardens. After the free time comes to an end, a shuttle transfer of about 45 minutes takes you back to the bus for the return journey to the ship, lasting about two and a half hours.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>As the tour involves walking uphill on uneven ground and using stairs, it is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. You may have to queue at the car park to pick up the shuttle to reach the site. Those wishing to visit the Abbey are requested to wear appropriate attire. The cost of the lunch (optional) is not included in the price of the tour. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children travelling on the lap.<-p>
YC EXCLUSIVE: VISIT MONT SAINT-MICHEL UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Begin with a two-and-a-half-hour drive through the charming Normandy countryside, offering a glimpse of rural France and its rich culture. Arrive at Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called "the Wonder of the West" for its striking island location and blend of natural and architectural marvels. Take a 35-minute shuttle followed by a 30-minute uphill walk to approach Mont Saint-Michel Abbey. Founded in the early 8th century after Archangel Michael reportedly appeared to the bishop of Avranches, the abbey became a major medieval pilgrimage site and a Gothic architectural gem. Its walls have witnessed history, serving as a fortress during the Hundred Years¿ War and a symbol of resilience and faith. Explore the abbey and the church, then enjoy a stroll along the ramparts, where panoramic views of the bay and abbey gardens are unforgettable.<-p> Next, enjoy 35 minutes of free time and take the opportunity to explore the local shops in search of souvenirs. The region is famous for its salt-meadow lamb and buttery biscuits, which you may wish to sample (at your own expense) or take home as a treat.<-p> A 35-minute shuttle will take you back to the mainland, before continuing by coach to Relais Mont Saint-Michel and enjoy a relaxing coffee break with a picturesque view of Mont Saint-Michel in the distance. The bay itself is an ever-changing spectacle, shaped by Europe¿s highest tides, which have fascinated observers for centuries. Finally, a two-and-a-half-hour drive will take you back to Cherbourg, where your ship awaits.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>This excursion is available for MSC Yacht Club Guests only. It involves long uphill walks on uneven surfaces and stairways and is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair. Guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part. Limited number of guides in languages other than French- should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in French only. You may have to queue at the car park to pick up the shuttle to reach the site. Guests are advised to bring local currency, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. Participants are requested to wear appropriate attire for religious visits. The snack-break may take place in the morning or in the afternoon. Buffet may include croissants, buns, chocolate, cereals, bread with jam, sliced meats, scrambled eggs, yoghurt, and fruit, served with hot beverages and orange juice, instead of pastries and may change from day to day. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children travelling on the lap.<-p>
EXPLORING SAINTE-MÈRE-ÉGLISE AND UTAH BEACH
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Begin this excursion with an approximately 45-minute drive from Cherbourg, travelling southwest to Sainte-Mère-Église. Once arrived, you¿ll set off on a guided tour for about one hour and a half to explore the town¿s key sights. These include a memorial in front of the town hall marking the symbolic start of the road to freedom, and the church¿s stained-glass windows, which pay tribute to American paratroopers.<-p> Next, during a coach transfer of around 15 minutes, you¿ll pass through the village of Sainte-Marie-du-Mont ¿ which also saw significant conflict during D-Day ¿ before reaching Utah Beach, one of the sites of the American landings. There¿s a stop here for about 30 minutes to reflect and take photographs.<-p> It¿s then a roughly 15-minute journey to Batterie de Crisbecq, near the village of Saint-Marcouf. A German artillery battery built as part of the Atlantic Wall coastal fortifications, the complex contains around 21 bunkers and gun positions that stretch around the site. After an approximately 30-minute stop here for external viewing and photographs, the coach transfer back to Cherbourg lasts 45 minutes or so.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>limited number of seats and of guides in languages other than French. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French only. This tour is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the religious visits. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children travelling on the lap.<-p>
CHERBOURG CITY WALK & LA CITÉ DE LA MER EXPERIENCE
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Your experience begins at the pier where you meet your English-speaking guide. Embark on a 30-minute leisurely stroll to the city centre, absorbing Cherbourg¿s unique blend of maritime tradition and contemporary charm. For approximately 90 minutes, enjoy a guided exploration of the city¿s historic heart, including the bustling Quai de la République, Église Sainte-Trinité, Place Napoléon, and the Gare Maritime.<-p> Return with your guide to the cruise terminal area, where the impressive La Cité de la Mer awaits. Located in a beautifully restored Art Deco building, this renowned attraction is a testament to Cherbourg¿s deep connection to the sea. Spend two hours at your own pace, using your included entry ticket to access three main exhibitions: Le Redoutable, the world¿s largest submarine open to visitors- The Titanic Exhibition, which retraces the journey and personal stories of the ship¿s passengers- and The Ocean of the Future, a captivating showcase of marine biodiversity and deep-sea exploration. Cherbourg¿s port played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a strategic naval base and a gateway for ocean liners.<-p> After your visit, you may return directly to your ship or enjoy further exploration along the harbourfront. Local cafés and restaurants offer an excellent opportunity to savour regional seafood and socialise, creating memorable moments with your loved ones.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>this tour is completely on foot and is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. Minimum age for entering Le Redoutable submarine is 5 years. Your entry ticket to La Cité de la Mer covers access to the main exhibitions- the mixed-reality experience is not included but can be purchased on-site if time permits. The visit to La Cité de la Mer is without the guide. All La Cité de la Mer attractions are located directly at the pier-terminal area with no additional transfers required.<-p>
Marseille (Provence)
Toulon-La Seyne sur Mer
Ajaccio (Corsica)
Brest
Bastia
Bordeaux
Bonifacio
Calais
Honfleur
Cannes
Le Havre (Paris)
La Rochelle
Nice
Porto Vecchio
Rouen
Sète
St Malo
La Seyne-sur-Mer (Toulon)
Villefranche
DUNKERKE (France)
Le Verdon sur Mer
Propriano
LORIENT (FRANCE)
Villefranche sur Mer (Montecarlo)
Calais
St Nazaire
Saint Raphael
St Tropez
Port Frejus
St Pierre
Porto Vecchio
Pauillac
St Jean de Luz