"We had wanted to stay in the Vieux Port but were too long (>40ft) and too deep (>1.5m), so the capitainerie staff (excellent English) offered us a berth in Bassin des Chalutiers."
That is how CA member Nicky Barker found herself berthed at La Rochelle Bassin des Chalutiers last year. She has uploaded a detailed report to CAptain’s Mate, with highlights below. Members can access the full version via CAptain’s Mate web or the app.
While the iconic Vieux Port is a prime berthing spot, larger vessels will find the adjacent Bassin des Chalutiers a practical and welcoming alternative. The approach is lively, passing outside La Rochelle’s famous twin towers, with the channel bustling with vedettes, ferries and tour boats. Nicky’s top tip: "Get lines and fenders ready before entering the channel."
Entry and Berthing Logistics
Nicky advises: "You need to call the capitainerie in advance, even if you know the potential gate opening times because they only open the gate and bridge if they know they have boat traffic. This is particularly important at night. The gate is usually opened 4 times per HW approx at HW-2, HW-1, HW and HW+1.5."
Upon entry, most vessels are directed to Pontoon C3, with sturdy 11m fingers and cleats at midpoints and roots. "Someone will come down the pontoon to show you your berth and help with lines," continues Nicky. Nicky notes that at the outer finger end of the pontoon berths may only have the French standard 'tip of the finger' loop for mooring.
Nicky received an unprompted ‘3 nights for the price of 2’ offer from the marina, with discounts available for longer stays. She praises the staff as "extremely helpful."
Atmosphere and Amenities
Despite its central location, the Bassin des Chalutiers is tranquil. A short walk from the old town, it is ideally placed for provisioning. A Carrefour City is 3 minutes away, while the larger Monoprix in the old town is only a 10-minute walk. Nicky’s boulangerie pick is ‘Paton’, and she describes the newly opened laundry as "spotless and efficient."
In addition to Nicky’s report, many other members have uploaded their insights. If you are planning on visiting other locations in La Rochelle, such as Les Minimes, Le Vieux Port or Bassin de Yachts, check CAptain’s Mate for plenty more advice.
CA members can also tap into the knowledge and support provided by our Honorary Local Representatives covering the region and across France.
Checking In/Out of France
Before visiting France, review the CA summary on Channel port procedures, compiled from information provided by French Officials, French marinas, CA Volunteers, CA Honorary Local Representatives and CA members.
Members can login to access further detailed information, including port website links, downloadable forms, a full list of ports of entry and ‘protocol’ ports, along with advice and recommendations.
About CAptain’s Mate
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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 features cover:
- January - Palmeira, Ilha do Sal, Cape Verde
- February- Christiansø, Denmark
- March - Muxia, Spain
- April- Rab, Croatia
- May - Port St Charles, Barbados
23 May 2025