CANCALE

• FRCKY
• Latitude: 48.6998
• Longitude: -1.84528
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in France

Location: France

Port of Cancale (Port de Cancale)

Location:

• Country: France
• Region: Brittany (Bretagne)
• Department: Ille-et-Vilaine
• Coordinates: Approximately 48.6731° N latitude, -1.8516° W longitude

Overview:

Cancale is a charming small town located on the Emerald Coast of Brittany, famous for its oysters and picturesque scenery. The port of Cancale, known as the Port de la Houle, serves as a harbor for both fishing vessels and recreational boats.

Port Specifications:

1. Type of Port: Mainly a fishing and leisure port.
2. Primary Use:
   • Fishing: Predominantly for the local oyster fishing industry.
   • Recreational Boats: Commonly used by yachts and smaller pleasure crafts.
3. Facilities:
   • Moorings: Approximately 850 moorings available for boats, including a mix of permanent and transient moorings.
   • Fishing Infrastructure: Includes facilities for landing and storing fresh seafood, especially oysters.
   • Boat Services: Fuel services, water supply, boat maintenance, and repair services are accessible.
4. Tidal Information:
   • The port experiences significant tidal variations with one of the highest tidal ranges in Europe.
   • Depth: Varies due to tides. Vessels must frequently check for tide schedules.
5. Safety and Navigation:
   • Lighthouse: The nearby lighthouse at La Pointe du Grouin aids in navigation.
   • Breakwaters: Protective structures to reduce the impact of waves and tides.
6. Accessibility:
   • The port is accessible by road from larger nearby cities like Saint-Malo.
   • Offers ample parking for visitors and marine enthusiasts.
7. Nearby Amenities:
   • Restaurants and Cafés: Specializing in fresh seafood, particularly oysters.
   • Shops: Offering local produce, maritime equipment, and souvenirs.
   • Tourist Attractions: Proximity to Mont Saint-Michel and beautiful walking trails along the coast.

Notable Characteristics:

• Renowned for its Oyster Market and annual Oyster Festival.
• Popular with tourists, especially during summer months.
• The local community highly values sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation.

Economic Impact:

The port significantly contributes to the local economy through tourism and the oyster industry, with Cancale being renowned for its high-quality oysters enjoyed both locally and internationally.

For mariners and visitors, it's advisable to check for the latest tide schedules, weather forecasts, and mooring availability due to the port's tidal nature and high tourist traffic, especially during peak seasons.