Sea Kayaking amid iconic D-Day landmarks

Hélène, Kayak Instructor

World champion land sailor and kayak instructor, Hélène, will guide you through the fascinating history of the Phoenix caissons with genuine passion.

Where History Comes to Life

At last, the day has arrived! After weeks of planning with friends, we’re finally setting off for a full day dedicated to deepening our understanding of the largest military operation in history: Operation Overlord, better known as D-Day.

We begin with a visit to the D-Day Museum, where we dive into the history of the artificial port’s creation. The museum showcases a wealth of models, photos, and archive videos, revealing how British engineers secretly designed and constructed the harbour across the channel in less than nine months. The first Phoenix caissons were sunk just two days after D-Day, and within six days, the Allies began unloading military equipment. The speed at which everything unfolded is almost beyond comprehension, leaving us in awe and emotion. The Mulberry Harbour stands as one of the war’s greatest engineering feats and a pivotal moment in the Battle of Normandy. As we look out the window, we spot the remnants of the structure on the horizon. In just a few hours, we’ll be in the water, getting a closer look at these iconic landmarks.

Making Our Way to the Pontoons!

It’s time for our kayaking adventure! At the nearby Centre Nautique d’Asnelles, we meet our friendly guide for the day, Hélène, a sand-yachting world champion and kayaking expert. After suiting up in wetsuits, we head to the beach, kayaks in hand. The conditions couldn’t be better: blue skies, sunshine, and calm waters. After a quick refresher on paddling techniques, we set off towards the Phoenix caissons.

A few minutes later, we come face-to-face with an impressive concrete block, covered in shells and seaweed. “Nature reclaims its space over time,” Hélène explains. “A whole ecosystem has grown around these pontoons.” She points out some sea snails, including the Chinese hat snail, which are edible, and suggests we try them raw. The salty taste hits first, followed by a surprisingly chewy texture. A bit hesitant about this unique culinary experience, we decide to leave the snack to the seabirds!

Discovering the Phoenix Caissons from Within

We continue our nautical adventure, with Hélène guiding us at a steady pace towards the entrance of a remarkably well-preserved caisson. Through a small breach, we manage to enter, and the sensation is surreal. Our voices echo inside the confined space, adding to the feeling of awe. As we paddle a little further, the highlight of the expedition reveals itself: a massive concrete block over 10 metres long, dwarfing us in its enormity. Hélène invites us inside, and in silence, we listen to the soft breeze creeping through the different sections of the structure. The history of these pontoons, crucial in the Normandy landings over 70 years ago, hits us profoundly.

On our way back, we pause to admire these landmarks from a distance. Originally, there were 115 caissons, but today only a few dozen remain visible, standing as powerful reminders of the past. The beauty of sea kayaking in Arromanches lies in the intimate experience it offers of this heritage. As we float alongside these iconic remnants of history, immersed in the dramatic surroundings, we are part of an unforgettable adventure, connecting with the past in the most direct way.

Useful Information

A unique place

Arromanches

World-renowned for the remains of its artificial harbour, Arromanches and its beaches also serve as a perfect spot for water activities such as sea kayaking, land sailing, and paddleboarding.