Visiting Saint-Nazaire: Shipyards, Submarine and Aeronautical History
At the mouth of the Loire River, where industry meets ocean, Saint-Nazaire reveals an unexpected treasure trove of maritime and aeronautical heritage. This coastal city, just 20 minutes from Le Pouliguen, invites visitors to explore its shipbuilding legacy, descend into a decommissioned submarine, and witness the birthplace of modern aircraft. Perfect for a day trip from Ker Gonan, Saint-Nazaire offers a fascinating contrast to seaside leisure.
Chantiers de l'Atlantique: Behind the Scenes of Shipbuilding Giants
The Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard stands as one of the most impressive industrial sites in Europe. These sprawling facilities have launched some of the world's most magnificent ocean liners and continue to build today's largest cruise ships.
Guided Tours Through Maritime History
The shipyard tour takes visitors through the heart of this industrial cathedral where steel becomes seafaring giant. Knowledgeable guides explain the remarkable process of building these floating cities—from initial steel cutting to final outfitting.
Advance booking is essential as these popular 2-hour tours include security clearance. You'll witness the massive construction docks, enormous gantry cranes, and possibly ships under construction. The scale of operations astounds even those with no particular interest in maritime affairs.
From the Queen Mary to Modern Cruise Ships
The shipyard's storied history includes building legendary vessels like the Normandie and portions of the Queen Mary 2. Today, it delivers cruise ships for major operators like Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises. The tour provides fascinating insights into how these engineering marvels come together—combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
Escal'Atlantic and Submarine Espadon: Immersive Maritime Experiences
Beyond observing shipbuilding, Saint-Nazaire offers hands-on maritime experiences that transport visitors through naval history.
Step Aboard the Submarine Espadon
The submarine Espadon, launched in 1958 and decommissioned in 1985, now welcomes curious visitors into its narrow confines. This unique museum experience invites you to squeeze through the tight corridors of a genuine Cold War-era submarine, experiencing first-hand the cramped conditions submariners endured during long missions beneath the waves.
Audio guides explain life aboard this underwater vessel that once journeyed beneath Arctic ice. The restored control room, cramped sleeping quarters, and torpedo compartments paint a vivid picture of submarine operations.
Escal'Atlantic: The Ocean Liner Experience
At Escal'Atlantic, housed in the former submarine base, step into a remarkable recreation of the golden age of transatlantic travel. This innovative museum uses authentic furnishings and fittings from famous liners to simulate the experience of ocean voyages from the 1860s to the 1960s.
Marvel at original staterooms, dining halls, and engine components while learning about the social history of these floating palaces that connected continents. The museum cleverly balances technical information with human stories, making it engaging for visitors of all ages.
Airbus Saint-Nazaire: Where Aircraft Take Shape
Saint-Nazaire's industrial prowess extends beyond the seas and into the skies through its crucial Airbus facility.
The Airbus factory tour provides rare insight into modern aircraft assembly. The site specialises in forward fuselage sections and cockpits for the entire Airbus range, from the compact A320 to the massive A380.
During the guided visit, observe skilled technicians assembling aircraft components with meticulous precision. The tour explains how various sections arrive from across Europe before being joined and equipped with complex systems. The highlight comes at the end—seeing completed sections ready for transport to final assembly lines in Toulouse or Hamburg.
Due to the sensitive nature of aircraft manufacturing, photography is prohibited inside the facility, and like the shipyard tours, advance booking is essential.
Practical Information
Opening Hours and Tickets:
- Chantiers de l'Atlantique tours: Tuesday to Friday at 10:00 and 14:30 (subject to shipyard activity)
- Submarine Espadon: Daily 10:00-19:00 (April-September), 10:00-18:00 (October-March)
- Escal'Atlantic: Daily 10:00-18:00, closed Mondays in winter
- Airbus tours: Monday to Friday at 10:00 and 14:00
Pricing (2024):
- Combined ticket (Escal'Atlantic + Submarine): Adults €19, Children (4-17) €9.50
- Shipyard tour: Adults €17, Children (8-17) €8.50
- Airbus tour: Adults €17, Children (8-17) €8.50
Location: Saint-Nazaire is approximately 25km from Ker Gonan villa in Le Pouliguen, a comfortable 25-minute drive.
Tips:
- Book industrial tours at least 48 hours in advance
- Bring identification for security checks at industrial sites
- Wear comfortable shoes as tours involve considerable walking
- Consider the Saint-Nazaire Pass for multiple attractions
Conclusion: Industry and History at Your Doorstep
Saint-Nazaire offers a fascinating counterpoint to the natural beauty surrounding Ker Gonan. After exploring the technological marvels of shipbuilding and aircraft assembly, return to the tranquil seaside charm of Le Pouliguen, where your luxury villa awaits with all the comforts of home.
Between sea and industry: explore Saint-Nazaire by day, then return to Ker Gonan's seaside charm in the evening – check availability now.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I plan for visiting Saint-Nazaire's main attractions?
A comprehensive visit to Saint-Nazaire requires a full day. The shipyard tour and Airbus visit each take approximately 2 hours, while Escal'Atlantic and the submarine Espadon combined need about 3 hours. Adding travel time from Le Pouliguen and a lunch break, we recommend dedicating an entire day to properly appreciate these unique industrial attractions.
Are the industrial tours suitable for children?
Children are welcome on most tours, though age restrictions apply. The Airbus and shipyard tours accept children from 8 years old, while the submarine requires children to be at least 5 due to the confined spaces. Younger visitors often find the submarine especially fascinating, though parents should consider whether their children will be comfortable in narrow passages.
Can I take photographs during the industrial tours?
Photography policies vary by site. At Escal'Atlantic and the submarine Espadon, photography for personal use is permitted. However, for security reasons, photography is strictly forbidden during both the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard tour and the Airbus factory visit. Visitors must leave cameras and sometimes mobile phones in secure lockers before these industrial tours.
Is Saint-Nazaire worth visiting if I'm staying in Le Pouliguen?
Absolutely. While the Loire-Atlantique coast offers abundant natural beauty, Saint-Nazaire provides a unique industrial tourism experience found nowhere else in France. The city perfectly complements the relaxed seaside atmosphere of Le Pouliguen, adding cultural and technological dimensions to your holiday. Its proximity to Ker Gonan villa makes it an ideal day excursion before returning to coastal tranquillity.
