There is huge appeal to cruising the European Inland Waterways, not least the numerous gems where you can stop.
We head to one of those, Épernay, where the very friendly Societé Nautique d’Épernay offers a welcoming stopover on the Marne. The small port de plaisance (marina) features a bar, showers, toilets, and the clubs also offers tennis and rowing. The central location of the marina allows for an easy stroll into Épernay’s charming streets. Mooring fees remain reasonable at €2.50 per metre/night (as at 2024).
CA member Judy Evans shares, "Situated in the heart of Champagne country, Épernay is well worth a visit, if only for the aperitifs offered by the Capitainerie on first arrival! The marina has all facilities and is located in a beautiful spot, whilst supermarkets and Centre Ville are all just a brief walk away. Guided tours of the various Champagne houses, including Moet et Chandon, are not to be missed!"
Approach
The location overview on CAptain’s Mate notes that the approach is where the Marne splits at Dizy Lock and meets the Canal Latéral à la Marne. The river remains navigable for 5 km upstream to Épernay, although caution is advised near shallows between the left bank and the small island.
Berthing and Facilities
There are two quays for alongside berthing, with one boat only on the downstream quay and 7-8 on the upstream quay. Mooring is via bollards and mooring rings. Warning is given that with limited spaces it is best to ‘phone ahead, although you may still have to raft up.
CAptain’s Mate details all the facilities, of which there are plenty, including water, shore power, showers, fuel. Nearby are restaurants, supermarkets, a hospital and vets. There is also a direct rail link to Paris.
Why Stop Here?
Épernay’s port combines practicality with charm, offering easy access to Champagne houses, while providing a friendly, no-frills base. It is ideal for crews seeking a mix of navigation convenience and local flavour. A top tip is to pair your visit with a bike ride along the Marne’s towpaths or a tasting tour of nearby vineyards.
Discover more
If you are thinking of exploring the European Inland Waterways, the CA offers everything you need. Tap into the CA’s vast knowledge to help you plan your trip:
- 25 guides covering France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands including 17 guides to moorings on the French inland waterways - free for members to download or for non-members to purchase
- Free guidance notes for members and non-members, covering a range of key subjects on cruising the European inland waterways
Find out more at www.theca.org.uk/public/sections/eiw.
Members can also access a series of records Zoom talks by the CA’s European Inland Waterways Section, via the
CAptain’s Mate of the Month locations
Each month we feature a CAptain’s Mate location to inspire your cruising adventures and display the vast depth of information on the app. 2025 feature:
- January - Palmeira, Ilha do Sal, Cape Verde
- February - Christiansø, Denmark
- March - Muxia, Spain
- April - Rab, Croatia
- May - Port St Charles, Barbados
- June - La Rochelle, France
About CAptain’s Mate
CAptain’s Mate was voted as the 'Equipment Innovation of the Year' at the 2022 British Yachting Awards. Available on iOS, Android and web, the exclusive to members app provides an unrivalled breadth of information and cruising reports covering 8,000+ locations in 100+ countries around the world. It features up to date, accurate and trusted location data on anchorages, marinas, ports, harbours, boatyards along with their facilities and amenities.
28 July 2025