La Rochelle to Fort Boyard Boat Trip Review: Is It Worth It?

Planning a trip to La Rochelle, and you are thinking if a boat excursion out to Fort Boyard is a thing to do? It certainly pops up on all the tourist brochures, so it can be tricky to know if it lives up to the hype. As a matter of fact, I hopped on one of those boats myself to give you a first-hand account of the “La Rochelle Promenade En Bateau Vers Le Fort Boyard 2h00” – basically, that’s the local way to say, “a two-hour boat trip to Fort Boyard”. So, like your trusty travel guide, I’m here to break it down for you.

What’s the Big Deal About Fort Boyard Anyway?

Right, so you might be asking yourself, why should I even bother looking at some fort out in the ocean? Actually, Fort Boyard isn’t just any old pile of stones. Constructed way back in the 19th century, it was imagined to protect the coastline from English naval attacks. Anyway, by the time it was done, it was, kind of, already obsolete! Though, its real fame arrived much later when it became the set for a seriously popular TV show – also named Fort Boyard – that is shown around the globe. Seriously, too it’s a pop culture icon in France and many other countries, because of people running around doing crazy challenges, locked away in cells, and wrestling with tigers (okay, maybe not real tigers anymore!). Because of this, seeing the fort up close has become something of a pilgrimage for many. It really has.

What Can You Expect on the Boat Trip?

Alright, first thing’s first: you’ll need to get yourself to the port in La Rochelle. It’s, arguably, a pleasant town, by the way, and getting to the port is pretty easy, so, whether you are walking from your hotel or taking a short bus ride, it should be pretty simple. I mean, many different companies provide the trip, yet the experience tends to be more or less the same regardless of which one you choose. Now, the boats themselves can be anything from smaller, kind of, personal vessels to larger, multi-deck ferries. Is that right? When it comes to getting a view, it could be better if you arrive early to grab a spot on the upper deck for those 360-degree views; because believe me, they’re worth it. As I was saying, the journey out to Fort Boyard takes about an hour, depending on the speed of the boat and the sea conditions. After all, once you’re out on the water, you will pass sights, like your l’Île d’Aix, and see the coast from a completely different view.

The Main Event: Fort Boyard Up Close

Okay, as you approach Fort Boyard, that’s when the excitement kicks in. I mean, it truly is an impressive sight looming out of the water. Because the boats circle the fort giving you plenty of chances to snap those vacation photos. Just a little suggestion; the guides on board will usually give you some background info, some anecdotes about the fort’s and how it became a TV set. Really, I recommend paying attention since some stories are actually fairly interesting! Now, regrettably, you can’t get off the boat and step foot on the fort itself because access is very limited, but honestly, circling it gives you an amazing perspective and that’s very satisfactory, like your own private viewing.

What Else Can You See? Other things on the excursion.

Right, so the boat excursion normally doesn’t just swing past the fort, too it incorporates other local points of interest. You will, very, often cruise close to l’Île d’Aix, that, too, offers awesome views of the coastline. So, depending on the trip you select, some also include stops at nearby islands, where you have a couple of hours to walk, taste the local food, or simply lounge on the beach. Basically, keep in mind to verify exactly what’s included in your specific tour if you wish for some on-land activities.

Is the Trip Worth Your Time and Money?

Therefore, is the two-hour boat trip to Fort Boyard worth it? Yes, it’s, typically, worth it. Because if you’re really into the history of Fort Boyard, or maybe, just someone that watched every single TV show season, seeing the fort up close is, like, a dream. So, too it’s an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours, particularly if the climate is good and you like being on the water. Because, for families, it may also be a really good excursion that keeps everyone entertained, particularly the little people. Though, bear in mind, a few younger children might get bored only looking at a fort from afar. It really depends on your audience!

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Well, here are some very quick suggestions to make certain your excursion goes smoothly: So, first, especially if visiting during the high season, I suggest booking your tickets beforehand. Now, the boats could be quite busy, because everyone wants an amazing view. We, too, recommend packing sunblock, shades, and a hat. Therefore, even on a overcast day, the glare from the water may be very deceiving. In the same way, bring a camera to capture those moments. Though, a fully-charged phone works great, too! Since it gets a bit breezy out on the open water, bring a light jacket, or something warm, that is handy. Okay? Last but not least, if you are vulnerable to motion sickness, consider taking medicine before the journey. Seriously, nothing ruins a excursion quicker than feeling queasy.

How to Book Your Trip

So, plenty of companies provide trips to Fort Boyard from La Rochelle. Just a little tip, examine online booking sites to check schedules and pricing, plus read reviews from previous travelers. Well, you will wish to confirm the trip length, if it includes a stop on an island, and how large is the boat. It’s, in fact, easier to go to the harbor to shop around, too! Seriously, you may also book at the port itself on the day of travel, but just remember it’s a gamble, particularly during those crowded summer days. I mean, you’ll notice tour booths and outlets by the port that offer tickets.

Ultimately, this boat journey from La Rochelle to Fort Boyard is greater than merely a quick tour; it is, rather, an opportunity to link to a small part of France’s maritime legacy plus a splash of popular culture. Seriously, whether you are all about history, want awesome images, or, too, simply enjoy breezy boat rides, then you would like to put this trip on your schedule. In a way, keep my suggestions at heart and make preparations, therefore, you are set to get an adventure, that is certainly, well worth your dollars and your time.