Cherbourg Guernsey ferry

Cherbourg Guide

The French city and port of Cherbourg is located on the Cotentin Peninsular in the north west of France. Invaded by the Vikings in the 9th century who were instrumental in developing Cherbourg into a port, the city has a long history. In Napoleonic times the harbour was fortified in order to prevent a British naval assault on it. Underwater obstructions were sunk at intervals across the harbour entrance which were eventually replaced with piles of masonry rubble. The works began in 1784 and were not concluded until 1850, long after Napoleon's defeat at the Battle of Waterloo.

There are many things to see and do in Cherbourg including the Cite de la Mer (the city of the sea) which is a museum dedicated to maritime history. The museum was opened in 2002 and is housed in the cruise terminal at Cherbourg port. Visitors to the city may also choose to take a leisurely stroll in the Jardin de la Roche Fauconniere which is a private botanical garden located in the Parc de la Fauconniere. Established in the 1870's the gardens contain roughly 3,400 specimens, many of which come from the Southern Hemisphere.

Guernsey Guide

The island of Guernsey lies in the English Channel and is located around 50 km to the west of the French Normandy coast. Guernsey is one of the Channel Islands and is a possession of the British Crown. Perhaps the island's biggest draw for visitors is its coast and beaches, with over 27 different bays to explore and enjoy. Some are more popular than others and the island's beautiful south coast is characterised by stunning cliffs and are best explored on foot.

The island's port is located in St Peter Port is one of the prettiest in Europe and provides a lovely backdrop when arriving at the island by sea. Ferries arriving in Guernsey depart from a number of ports on the English south coast with crossing times from 3 hours. Ferries from Portsmouth operate all year round and in all weathers whilst ferries to St Malo in France take a little more than 2 hours. Additional ferry services are put on during the busy summer months from the Normandy coast. As a foot passenger, or if travelling with your car, motorcycle or bicycle, the ferry will deliver you straight into the heart of the island's capital.