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Whether you have sea legs or not, don’t miss the chance to see some of the greatest sailing ships in Europe gather for Fécamp Grand’Escale, the first festival of its kind celebrating the town’s rich maritime heritage.

Vieux gréement devant les falaises à Fécamp
Ship in Fécamp (c) alexander-demyanenko

A first for Fécamp 

For the very first time in 2022, the Fécamp Grand’Escale casted its anchor on the coastline famous for its vast chalk cliffs, Normandy’s Alabaster Coast. A hundred or so sailing ships and boats coming from across Northern Europe sailed into the harbour and delight spectators lining the quaysides. In as pleasing a setting as you could wish for, the maritime quarter of Fécamp echoes with the sound of sailors, sailing ships and seagulls! The festival also provides a chance to explore the beautiful Pays de Caux area just inland from Fécamp, or visit the Musée des Pêcheries (Fishing Museum) with friends, and explores the maritime history of Fécamp and its fishermen who fished for cod in the icy waters off Newfoundland.

‘Le Bellem’ returns to Normandy

Watch as world-famous ship Le Belem heads the long line of ships sailing into Fécamp. This prestigious three-master embodies the French maritime tradition and proved to be a sensation with the public at the Rouen Armada. For all those who are passionate about sailing ships, expect a repeat performance! Other iconic ships will also be there, such as the Etoile du Roy, a replica corsair frigate, and the Belle Poule, built in Fécamp in 1932 and owned by the Marine Nationale. 

Oh, I do like to be beside the quayside

Other things for visitors to look forward to at the Fécamp Grand’Escale maritime festival are guided tours on-board the ships, exhibitions, boat trips out to sea, a maritime-themed cinema and concerts, all against the beautiful coastal setting of Fécamp. We also recommend indulging in some delicious smoked herring, fresh off the fishing boat! By the time you’ve experienced everything this festival has to offer, we don’t think there’ll be many secrets of the sea left, so dive in and immerse yourself!

Useful information

Fécamp Grand’Escale
Quai Sadi Carnot, 76400 Fécamp
fecampgrandescale.com

Prices

Free of charge

DATES

8 – 12 May 2024

Coasteering in the Cotentin

Coasteering in the Cotentin

Fécamp in all seasons

Fécamp in all seasons