Duclair Cruise Port
Appontement de Duclair
Duclair, France Port
UN/LOCODE FRDUW Port of call Homeport
Duclair Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | France |
| UN/LOCODE | FRDUW |
| Contact | |
| Address | Quai de la Seine, 76480 Duclair, France |
| Port phone | +33 2 35 37 50 22 |
| Website | www.duclair.fr |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 49.48560, 0.87610 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The river cruise pier in Duclair is located on the Quai de Seine, offering a direct, flat 3-minute walk to the town centre and Place de la Mairie. This small commune in the Normandy region, situated in the Seine-Maritime department of northwestern France, serves as an essential stop on the Seine for those exploring the loops of the river. You will find yourself 20 km (12 miles) west of the historic city of Rouen, roughly a 25-minute drive, and just 10 km (6 miles) from the ruins of the Abbey of Jumièges. Additionally, the port is approximately 50 km (31 miles) east of Honfleur, a journey of about 45 minutes by road. As a dedicated river cruise port, Duclair is a destination that rewards travelers who appreciate quiet, culinary excellence and monastic history. The consistent feedback from visitors is that the town itself requires less than an hour to explore; its true value lies in its proximity to the Jumièges ruins and its famous local duck. Most guides suggest walking to nearby attractions, but the distance to the 'Route des Fruits' is considerable and a bicycle or pre-arranged transport is advised. This port rewards the prepared foodie and the history buff but punishes those who expect a bustling metropolis with high-street shopping.
Duclair — Port Overview
History
Duclair emerged as a vital river crossing and trade post during the Gallo-Roman period, though its strategic importance surged in the 9th century when Viking longships navigated the Seine to raid the inland territories. By the Middle Ages, the town had established itself as a primary salt storehouse and a key link in the transport of goods between the English Channel and Paris. The construction of the Church of Saint-Denis in the 12th century, which you can still visit today near the town square, serves as a permanent architectural record of this medieval prosperity. Historically, the town’s economy was inextricably linked to the 'Route des Fruits'—a fertile micro-climate in the river loops that has produced apples, pears, and cherries for the royal courts since the 17th century. A pivotal moment in Duclair's modern history occurred during the Allied liberation in August 1944; the town suffered significant damage as German forces attempted to cross the river during their retreat. Today, what you see is a blend of surviving 18th-century stone structures and careful post-war reconstruction. The town's most enduring legacy, the Duclair Duck (Canard de Duclair), became a culinary sensation in the late 19th century, specifically the 'Caneton à la rouennaise' preparation, which remains the definitive gastronomic experience visible in local menus along the quay.
The Verdict
At Duclair, the people who do best are the ones who arrive with a plan—whether it is a reservation for the town's legendary duck or a pre-arranged transport to the haunting ruins of Jumièges. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore.
Things to Do & See in Duclair
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The River Seine Banks (Quai de Seine) | Natural Feature | Quai de la Seine, 76480 Duclair | Open 24 hours | duclair.fr | Free | |
| Abbey of Jumièges | Historical Site | 24 Rue Guillaume le Conquérant, 76480 Jumièges | +33 2 35 37 24 02 | Daily 09:30–18:00 (high season) | abbayedejumieges.fr | EUR €7.50 |
| Church of Saint-Denis | Cultural Site | Place de l'Église, 76480 Duclair | +33 2 35 37 50 22 | Daily 09:00–18:00 | Not available | Free |
| The Route des Fruits (Fruit Trail) | Tourist Attraction | D65 Road, heading South from Duclair | Best viewed during daylight | seine-maritime-tourisme.com | Free | |
| Manoir du Catel | Historical Site | Route du Catel, 76190 Écretteville-lès-Baons | +33 6 10 21 33 14 | Seasonal (July-August daily, otherwise weekends) | manoirducatel.fr | EUR €8.00 |
The River Seine Banks (Quai de Seine) · Natural Feature
FreeThe waterfront of Duclair is the town's living room. As your ship docks along the Seine, you are immediately part of the landscape. It is worth noting that most simply walk 100 metres and stop. It is a good idea to walk the full length of the promenade toward the ferry terminal. This stretch offers an unobstructed view of the white limestone cliffs that characterize the Normandy loops of the river. You will see local fishermen and the occasional massive cargo barge navigating the tight bends. It is a place of perpetual motion yet profound quiet. You will come away with a deep sense of the Seine's scale that you simply cannot feel from the deck of the ship. It is worth knowing that this is the best spot to witness the 'Mascaret' (tidal bore) on rare occasions, a natural phenomenon that creates a wave moving upriver.
Quai de la Seine, 76480 Duclair ·Open 24 hours ·www.duclair.fr
Abbey of Jumièges · Historical Site
EUR €7.50Established in 654 AD, Jumièges was once one of the most powerful Benedictine monasteries in the Western world. What remains today are the skeletal white stone walls of the 11th-century Church of Notre-Dame. The height of the towers is 50 metres, and standing beneath them is a humbling experience. Most visitors walk the main nave and leave, but you should seek out the remains of the Church of Saint-Pierre and the ancient yew tree in the cloister, which is over 500 years old. The Abbey was partially dismantled after the French Revolution, and its 'ruined' state was actually preserved by 19th-century owners who recognized its romantic beauty. When you walk through the roofless nave, the sky becomes the ceiling, creating a lighting effect that makes this the most photographed site on the Seine. It is an experience that delivers a hauntingly beautiful perspective on the passage of time and the fragility of even the greatest empires.
24 Rue Guillaume le Conquérant, 76480 Jumièges ·+33 2 35 37 24 02 ·Daily 09:30–18:00 (high season) ·www.abbayedejumieges.fr
Church of Saint-Denis · Cultural Site
FreeStanding just back from the quay, the Church of Saint-Denis is the anchor of Duclair's history. While the exterior might seem modest compared to the grand cathedrals of the Seine, its interior holds 12th-century Romanesque pillars that are masterpieces of Norman stonecraft. Keep in mind that the church's foundation actually predates the current structure, sitting on a site of worship that goes back to the Merovingian era. You should pay particular attention to the choir area and the intricate wood carvings on the pews. It survived the heavy bombardments of 1944 which destroyed much of the surrounding town, making it a symbol of resilience for the local population. The atmosphere is one of intense local devotion, far removed from the tourist-heavy feel of the monuments in Rouen. It delivers a moment of genuine quietude and a tangible connection to the medieval life of the Seine valley.
Place de l'Église, 76480 Duclair ·+33 2 35 37 50 22 ·Daily 09:00–18:00 ·Not available
The Route des Fruits (Fruit Trail) · Tourist Attraction
FreeThe loops of the Seine near Duclair create a unique micro-climate, trapped between the river and the cliffs, which protects fruit trees from frost. This fertile strip has been known as the Route des Fruits for centuries. As you move south toward Jumièges, you will pass endless rows of cherry, plum, apple, and pear trees. This location is particularly appealing during the spring blossom and the autumn harvest, both of which are equally stunning. Most visitors stay on the tour bus, but the real joy is stopping at a farmhouse gate to buy a bag of 'Conférence' pears or local cherries. This is the source of the cider and calvados that define Normandy's palate. Expect a sensory connection to the land that is often lost in the more 'monument-focused' stops on a river cruise. You'll be buying fruit from the same families who have tended these orchards for four generations, standing on the very silt that makes this valley so productive.
D65 Road, heading South from Duclair ·Best viewed during daylight ·www.seine-maritime-tourisme.com
Manoir du Catel · Historical Site
EUR €8.00Built in the 13th century by Richard de Treigots, the Manoir du Catel is one of the oldest fortified manors in Normandy. It served as a seigniorial courthouse for the Abbey of Fécamp. This is considered a 'hidden' gem due to its smaller crowds compared to Jumièges, while offering a more intact look at medieval judicial life. The architecture is a formidable display of flint and sandstone. You will explore the vaulted halls and the ancient kitchen, which still retains its original character. The manor was saved from ruin by a private owner in the early 2000s and has been meticulously restored. It is well established that the graffiti found here is some of the most significant in the region, offering a rare glimpse into the minds of those who passed through its doors 600 years ago. It delivers a raw, unpolished history that feels immediate and personal—a stark contrast to the manicured ruins of the larger abbeys.
Route du Catel, 76190 Écretteville-lès-Baons ·+33 6 10 21 33 14 ·Seasonal (July-August daily, otherwise weekends) ·www.manoirducatel.fr
Eating & Drinking in Duclair
The culinary identity of Duclair is defined by the 'Canard de Duclair', a cross-breed duck known for its dark, lean, and flavorful meat. Unlike the mass-produced versions found elsewhere, the genuine Duclair duck is raised on the marshy banks of the Seine. You must try it prepared 'à la rouennaise', where the bird is served in a rich red wine and shallot sauce thickened with the duck's own juices. To drink, the region rejects wine in favor of cider and Calvados (apple brandy). It is well established that the 'Cidre de Normandie' from the nearby Jumièges orchards is some of the finest in France—crisp, slightly tart, and naturally effervescent. For street food, visit the Tuesday market for 'Neufchâtel' cheese, the heart-shaped Norman classic that is distinctively salty and creamy. One honest note: tourists expect 'Duck Confit' as the primary dish, but locals consider the roasted or pressed preparations to be the only true way to eat a Duclair duck. You'll find the best versions in the restaurants lining the Quai de Seine.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Le Parc | 721 Quai de la Seine, 76480 Duclair | +33 2 35 37 50 31 | 12:00–14:00, 19:30–21:00 (Closed Monday/Tuesday) | le-parc-duclair.fr | €60–€90 (~$69–$104 USD) |
| Le Tartarin | 125 Quai de la Seine, 76480 Duclair | +33 2 35 37 50 38 | 12:00–14:00, 19:00–21:00 | hotel-duclair.fr | €35–€50 (~$40–$58 USD) |
| Le Café de la Mairie | 20 Place du Général de Gaulle, 76480 Duclair | +33 2 35 37 50 09 | 07:30–20:00 | €4–€8 (~$4.50–$9.20 USD) |
Le Parc
€60–€90 (~$69–$104 USD)Le Parc is an institution. You are here for the pressed duck ritual, where the sauce is prepared tableside using a silver press. The dining room offers expansive views of the Seine, and the service is formally traditional. The meal duration is a minimum of 2 hours; it should not be attempted if you have a tight excursion schedule. The duck is rich, complex, and prepared according to a recipe that has changed little since the 1920s. An honest limitation: it is expensive and requires a reservation weeks in advance.
721 Quai de la Seine, 76480 Duclair ·+33 2 35 37 50 31 ·12:00–14:00, 19:30–21:00 (Closed Monday/Tuesday)
Le Tartarin
€35–€50 (~$40–$58 USD)Located within a charming hotel, Le Tartarin focuses on the bounty of the Seine and the nearby coast. You should order the seafood stew; it is packed with fresh fish from the Channel, just 40 minutes away. The dining room is cozy with traditional wood accents. It is a reliable, high-quality alternative to the more formal options on the quay. One honest note: service can be slow during the peak 1:00 PM lunch hour when locals fill the room.
125 Quai de la Seine, 76480 Duclair ·+33 2 35 37 50 38 ·12:00–14:00, 19:00–21:00
Le Café de la Mairie
€4–€8 (~$4.50–$9.20 USD)This is the heartbeat of Duclair. While the quay restaurants are for tourists, the square is for locals. You come here for a Kir Normand—a local twist on the classic aperitif using the region's famous dry cider instead of white wine. The view is of the town hall and the passing daily life of a Norman village. It is the best place to feel the true rhythm of the destination away from the cruise ship crowd.
20 Place du Général de Gaulle, 76480 Duclair ·+33 2 35 37 50 09 ·07:30–20:00
Getting There & Around
Once you step off the ship, walking is the only necessary mode of transport for the town of Duclair itself. The entire commercial district is contained within four square blocks. For excursions to the Abbey of Jumièges or the Fruit Trail, the distance has been measured and bicycles are considered the most enjoyable method; several river cruise lines provide these, or they can be rented locally. Public transit via the 'Line 30' bus to Rouen is reliable but infrequent, so checking the 'Astuce' transit website is mandatory. Uber does not operate reliably in this rural area; do not count on it for a timely return to the ship. Taxis are scarce and must be booked at least two hours in advance through your cruise director or a local operator. One tip most guides omit: use the 'Bac' (the orange river ferry). It is free for pedestrians, runs every 15–20 minutes, and offers the best elevated view of the town from the opposite bank of the Seine.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Duclair
Church of Saint-Denis
9:00 AM (30 min)
A stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Look for the ancient columns and the 16th-century stained glass windows. It is a quiet sanctuary just steps from the town's commerce.
- Walk from the cruise pier via Rue de la République. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look at the capitals of the columns; you will see carved figures that date back nearly 900 years.
Abbey of Jumièges
9:45 AM (90 min)
Often called the 'most beautiful ruins in France.' Victor Hugo was a frequent visitor. The twin towers reach 50 metres high, standing roofless against the sky. It is haunting and majestic.
- 10-minute taxi ride from Place de la Mairie. (€20.00 (~$23.00 USD))
- Entry: €7.50 ($8.60)
- Use the 'Jumièges 3D' app at the entrance; it allows you to see the abbey as it looked before the destruction.
Lunch Recommendation
Le Parc
This is the 'temple' of the Duclair duck. While others serve it, Le Parc maintains the rigorous traditional preparation standards that have made the town famous.
Order: Caneton à la rouennaise (Pressed Duck), Tarte Tatin with Isigny cream
721 Quai de la Seine, 76480 Duclair
Cost: €65.00 (~$75.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Duclair
Rouen Cathedral & Historic District
8:30 AM (180 min)
The capital of Normandy. Explore the half-timbered houses, the Gros-Horloge astronomical clock, and the site where Joan of Arc was martyred. The cathedral was famously painted by Monet.
- 25-minute taxi or ship-organized coach. (€50.00 (~$57.50 USD))
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Skip the main tourist cafes in front of the cathedral; walk two blocks to Place du Vieux-Marché for better coffee.
Getting back to the ship
To ensure a safe return, you should be walking back toward the quay at least 45 minutes before the all-aboard time. If you are in the town centre, the walk takes only 3 minutes, but if you are returning from Jumièges or the Route des Fruits by taxi, allow 30 minutes for the journey to account for potential slow-moving agricultural vehicles on the narrow D65 road. A taxi from Jumièges costs roughly €20 (~$23 USD). Public transit (Line 30) is not reliable for a tight return; do not use it within 2 hours of departure. If you miss the ship, the next port is typically Rouen; a taxi will cost approximately €60 (~$69 USD) and take 25 minutes. However, the ship's agent contact number is +33 2 35 37 50 22 (Mairie/Local Port Contact). River ships generally cannot wait more than 15 minutes due to strict lock-timing schedules on the Seine.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Duclair
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: March through December
12°C–24°C (54°F–75°F). Rainfall is common year-round, often as a light mist.
What to wear: Layering is non-negotiable in Normandy. A lightweight is recommended, breathable waterproof shell even on sunny days. Footwear should be sturdy walking shoes; while the terrain is flat, the quay can be slippery when wet. If you plan to visit the Abbey of Jumièges, opt for closed-toe shoes to handle the gravel and grass surfaces of the ruins. Sun protection is needed for the exposed riverbank areas.
Weather risks: Early morning fog on the Seine can occasionally delay ship arrivals or departures by 30–60 minutes.
Autumn (October) brings stunning foliage along the river loops, but wind speeds on the quay can make it feel 5 degrees colder than the inland square.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (April–May) | Mild with frequent light rain showers and blossoming orchards. | The stone steps of the Church of Saint-Denis and the quay's edge can become slick during the common 'crachin' (Norman drizzle). | The Quai de Seine and the entrance to the town's historical buildings. | Wear shoes with rubber soles; leather-soled shoes will struggle on the wet, smooth stone of the promenade. Carry a compact umbrella. |
| Summer (June–August) | Warm and occasionally humid with temperatures averaging 22°C (72°F). | Heat fatigue on the 'Route des Fruits' as there is minimal shade when walking between orchards. | The open roads heading south toward Jumièges. | Visit the Jumièges Abbey ruins in the morning (before 11:00 AM) to avoid the midday sun, which reflects intensely off the white chalk stone walls. |
| Autumn (September–October) | Cooler, crisp air with vibrant harvest activity. | Fallen leaves on the quay promenade can create a slip hazard, especially when combined with river mist. | The shaded walking paths along the riverbanks. | This is the best time for photography. Plan your return to the ship early as the river fog can roll in quickly by 5:00 PM. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
In Duclair, a polite 'Bonjour' when entering any shop or cafe is mandatory; ignoring this is considered a significant social slight. When dining, meals are a deliberate affair. You should not expect a 'quick' lunch; signaling you are finished is done by placing your knife and fork parallel at the 4 o'clock position on your plate. Photography in the Church of Saint-Denis is permitted, but never during service, and always without flash. Locals in Duclair are generally reserved but warm up quickly if you attempt a few words of French. Tipping is not as aggressive as in the US; rounding up the bill by €2–€3 for a cafe lunch or adding 5–10% for an exceptional dinner is the standard. A common cultural misunderstanding involves the Tuesday market: it is a place of business, not a museum exhibit. Do not touch the produce without asking the vendor 'Puis-je?' (May I?). It is worth noting that cruise passengers often stand in the middle of narrow shop doorways to take photos; always step to the side to allow locals to pass.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Attempting to walk from the ship to the Abbey of Jumièges. |
Waiting until arrival to book a table for the famous duck lunch. |
Missing the local Tuesday morning market because of a late breakfast. |
Assuming there will be plenty of taxis waiting at the pier. |
Practical tips
Duclair is primarily a cash-friendly town. While major restaurants on the quay accept Visa and Mastercard, the smaller bakeries and Tuesday market stalls often require cash for purchases under €15 (~$17 USD). Tipping is culturally expected to be modest; a 5% tip for a good dinner is appreciated but not required. You should learn five phrases to earn goodwill: 'Bonjour' (Good day), 'Merci' (Thank you), 'S'il vous plaît' (Please), 'Pardon' (Excuse me), and 'L'addition, s'il vous plaît' (The bill, please). Pickpocketing is extremely rare here compared to Paris or Rouen, but keep an eye on your bags during the crowded Tuesday market near the Town Hall. Dress code for the Church of Saint-Denis is respectful casual; shoulders should be covered. The best time to visit the Town Square is before 11:00 AM to see the village in its natural, quiet state before excursion buses depart. It is well established that the local 'Bac' ferry is the most overlooked free experience—use it for the best river views.
Cruise Lines Visiting Duclair
Port of Call
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FAQ — Duclair
How much does a taxi from Duclair to Rouen cost?
A one-way taxi from the Duclair quay to central Rouen costs between €45 and €55 (~$52–$63 USD), depending on the time of day and traffic. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. During the morning commute (08:00–09:00), transit time on this route can increase to 40 minutes. Because taxis are scarce in Duclair, it is best to pre-book your return trip from Rouen. Most drivers will not wait at the pier; your cruise director must call a local dispatch. For a stress-free return with a guaranteed ship-back arrival, consider booking a private transfer.
Is the Abbey of Jumièges worth the trip from Duclair?
Absolutely. It is the single most significant historical site within a 15-minute radius of the port. According to the Seine-Maritime Tourism Board, it is considered the most impressive ruin in France. You will see 50-metre-high towers and a massive roofless nave that provides a unique open-air perspective on medieval architecture. It is worth knowing that even if you have 'abbey fatigue,' Jumièges is different because of its romantic, ruined state. Expect to pay €7.50 (~$8.60 USD) for entry. Allow at least 90 minutes to explore the grounds properly. It is a 10 km journey from the pier, so avoid walking and use a bicycle or taxi.
What is the best way to see the Fruit Trail (Route des Fruits)?
The best way is by bicycle or a private car. The 'trail' is actually a series of roads (primarily the D65) winding through the river loops. If your cruise ship provides bicycles, the 10 km ride from Duclair to Jumièges takes you through the heart of the orchards. This route is mostly flat, making it manageable for casual cyclists. You will pass dozens of farm stands selling fresh cherries, apples, and pears. If you have limited mobility, a 15-minute taxi loop from the town square will show you the highlights for about €30 (~$34.50 USD). Do not attempt to walk it; the distances between orchards are too great for a 4-hour port call.
Is the water in the Seine at Duclair safe for swimming?
No. Swimming in the Seine at Duclair is strictly prohibited due to heavy commercial river traffic and dangerous currents. According to the VNF (Voies Navigables de France), the river serves as a major industrial artery for barges and cruise ships. Furthermore, the water quality is not monitored for recreational swimming. If you are looking for water activities, stay on the ship's sun deck. The quay is strictly for walking, ship-watching, and taking the free 'Bac' ferry to the opposite bank. Always keep a safe distance from the quay edge, as the wake from passing barges can be surprisingly large and sudden.
Are shops in Duclair open on Sundays?
Most shops in Duclair are closed on Sundays, adhering to traditional French rest laws. However, the 'Boulangerie L'Écrin des Saveurs' is usually open on Sunday mornings until 1:00 PM for locals buying their breakfast bread. Some quay-side restaurants like Le Parc and Le Tartarin also open for Sunday lunch, as this is a peak time for French families to dine out. If your port call falls on a Sunday, your day should focus on the Jumièges Abbey (which is open) and a long, pre-booked lunch. Do not expect to do any grocery or souvenir shopping. Always verify specific hours with your cruise director, as seasonal changes occur.
Can I walk to the 'white cliffs' I see from the ship?
You can walk to the base of the cliffs along the Quai de Seine, but there are no safe hiking trails that lead to the summit within the town of Duclair itself. The cliffs are composed of unstable chalk and can be prone to rockfalls; the distance from the ship to the nearest cliff-base viewpoint takes about a 12-minute flat walk. For a truly elevated view, you would need a taxi to the Jumièges plateau or the 'Heurteauville' viewpoint across the river. For most travelers, the best view of the cliffs is actually from the ship's top deck as you sail into or out of the port.
What should I buy at the Tuesday market in Duclair?
The Tuesday market is the best place to buy authentic Neufchâtel cheese—the famous heart-shaped cheese of Normandy. A small wheel costs roughly €4–€6 (~$4.50–$7.00 USD). You should also look for 'Teurgoule,' a traditional Norman rice pudding flavored with cinnamon that has been baked for several hours. Be aware that the market is also excellent for finding artisanal honey from the Seine Valley hives. The market takes place in the Place de la Mairie from 08:30 to 12:30. Bring cash, as most vendors do not accept credit cards for small purchases. It is a genuine local experience with very few 'tourist' stalls.
How do I take the free ferry (Le Bac) in Duclair?
The ferry, known as 'Le Bac 14,' departs from the quay approximately 300 metres from where the cruise ships dock. It is completely free for pedestrians and cyclists and runs every 15 to 20 minutes throughout the day. Simply walk onto the ramp when the gate opens. The crossing takes about 5 minutes and takes you to the south bank of the Seine (Berville-sur-Seine). You should take it just for the round-trip experience; it offers the most impressive photo opportunity of the Duclair waterfront and your cruise ship from the water level. No tickets or reservations are required.
What is a 'Canard de Duclair' and why is it special?
The Duclair duck is a specific regional breed, distinguished by its dark feathers and a white patch on its chest. It is prized by chefs because its meat is leaner and more succulent than the common Pekin duck. In Duclair, it is prepared using the 'pressed' method, where the carcass is squeezed in a silver press to extract the essence for the sauce. A serving of this specialty in a top restaurant like Le Parc will cost approximately €65 (~$75 USD). It is a protected culinary tradition of the region. If you are a foodie, this is the primary reason to spend your afternoon in the town rather than taking an excursion to Rouen.
Is there a pharmacy in Duclair that speaks English?
Yes, the 'Pharmacie de la Mairie' located in the central square (15 Place du Général de Gaulle) usually has at least one staff member who speaks proficient English. They are accustomed to river cruise passengers and can assist with common needs like sunscreen, bandages, or over-the-counter medications for motion sickness or allergies. It is open Monday to Saturday, but note that like most French pharmacies, they close for lunch between 12:30 and 14:00. In a medical emergency on a Sunday, your ship's crew will contact the 'Pharmacie de Garde' (the designated on-call pharmacy for the region).
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.