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Normandie Lovers

To awaken your senses in Normandy - Claire et Manu’s Blog

Le Havre cruise port (by a local) – what to do + excursions

by Claire ROBINSON , Region Lovers | June 16, 2023 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

Does your cruise call at Le Havre , France? If you have the chance to stop in our hometown, here is a guide with our selection of things to do in the cruise port of Le Havre on a day: architecture, nature, history, art… ideas for everyone! Stay in town or explore Normandy with one of the shore excursions from Le Havre.

Introduction to Le Havre, Normandy

As a major commercial port of Normandy France, Le Havre also welcomes many cruise ships each year.

A resilient story

The city itself was largely destroyed during World War II, so you won’t see many churches and old buildings like in other French cities. But it was rebuilt by Auguste Perret in a modern architectural style that has been classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

A light that has inspired many artists

The light and the clouds in Le Havre are always special. They have inspired many artists, including the impressionists. Claude Monet and Eugene Boudin, for example, painted the colors of Le Havre.

In the beautiful region of Normandy

The cruise port of Le Havre is also a great place to explore some of the most beautiful places in Normandy with shore excursions.

Our hometown

Le Havre is our home town. This is where we were born and raised. I have been living thereClaire) again since 2016. Our family has been here for a long time. Our family store is established in Le Havre since 1870 (yes, you read correctly with an 8!). Our grandfather was one of the first people to receive the keys to the new buildings after World War II and he was very appreciative of the improvement in his quality of life.

If you are planning a longer weekend in Le Havre, see our article on things to do in Le Havre in Normandy .

Cruises arriving in Le Havre

This article is for people who spend a few hours on a cruise ship. You can arrive with :

• MSC Cruises (by the way, if you need help choosing your drink packages on an MSC cruise, see this guide )
• Royal Caribbean
• or with a river cruise on the Seine

Main options – Shore Excursions from Le Havre in Normandy

So, are you stopping over in Le Havre during your cruise? Great! Here is my selection of the main shore excursions from Le Havre to consider. They are not in any particular order (it depends on what you are interested in):

OPTION 1 – Visit Le Havre

Le Havre is a strange city, I admit it. For many visitors (and for the French), this is not what France should look like. But Le Havre is a unique and trendy city, which has a lot to offer and should not be neglected. You can spend a great day in Le Havre discovering the architecture and sea views that have inspired so many artists, such as Monet. And it will be the cheapest option.

I’m not going to go into detail here – you can learn all about my hometown later in the article (after my list of options, check out the must-see places and my itinerary suggestions).

OPTION 2 – Visit of the landing beaches

Those interested in the history of the war can take a shore excursion from Le Havre to visit the landing beaches and some of the World War II monuments.

American-friendly tours include Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, the Overlord Museum and the American Cemetery. See program and book

Canadian-friendly tours include Juno Beach, the Canadian Cemetery and the Abbaye d’Ardenne. See program and book

OPTION 3 – Mont-Saint-Michel

It’s a long drive to Mont St Michel (a little over 2.5 hours) but it is one of France’s most iconic jewels, and a Unesco site. The view from the mainland is simply breathtaking, whatever the weather. You can then visit this rocky island on top of which is the 8th century Benedictine abbey.

One of the most famous sites to visit in France is accessible during a Le Havre cruise excursion!

see the options

OPTION 4 – Live painting – Giverny, Rouen and Honfleur

If you are looking for charming villages and places that have inspired famous artists, Normandy has many sites that can satisfy you. For example, you can go to Giverny to visit Monet’s house and gardens, and stop in the historic city of Rouen. You can also visit the charming town of Honfleur, which is one of the most charming ports in France. See program and book

OPTION 5 – Étretat

One of my favorite places to visit in Normandy is Etretat. I love this little cove and the impressive white cliffs that surround it. And as a French girl, I grew up with the stories of Leblanc’s fictional character, Arsène Lupin, who hid his treasure in the pinnacle. The heart of the town has charming old houses typical of the area and from the beach you can climb the cliffs on both sides for incredible views.

You can take the bus 13 which runs every hour. Or rent a car for the day (40min drive)

OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
• Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
• Think of the complete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
• There is a lot of demand, book it early .

Of course, you can also go to Paris for the day. Your cruise ship will probably offer day trips between Le Havre and Paris. It takes about 2h30 to get there. So you still have several hours to visit.

We know that Paris is the city that makes people dream, but our opinion is that it would be very frustrating to spend only a few hours there. It is too difficult to choose what to see.

See private tour availability

Stopover at the Port of Le Havre – advice

Let us now tell you a little more about Le Havre as a cruise port.

Arrival at the cruise port of Le Havre

When your cruise ship arrives in Le Havre, I recommend you go out on deck to see the beach and the Perret architecture as a whole. And wave a little because I might see you from my window. LOL (here’s the picture of the boat below – I took it from my apartment window).

Cruise Terminal

The ships are docked at the Cruise Terminal. It is located 2.5 km (1.5 mi) from the city center. The walk will take you 30min. Most cruise lines offer shuttles between the terminal and downtown for those not participating in shore excursions. They take you near what is called Le Volcan (a unique theater that I will show you later). Or you can jump in a cab. It costs about 8 euros for the city center and 10 euros for the train station. At the reception center, you can get a map of the city to help you get around.

Getting around

On foot The best way to visit the city center is on foot. Unless you visit Sainte-Adresse, the rest is just flat walking. This is how you can best appreciate the architecture.

Tourist bus – in summer However, if you want to get a glimpse of the whole city, consider jumping on the “Bee Le Havre ” tour bus to learn more about this amazing city. It leaves from the side of the volcano opposite the one where the shuttle drops you off. They also now have a Food Bus and a bus tour of Honfleur.

By bike At the cruise terminal, it is possible to rent bicycles

Tuk Tuk – in summer Tuk-Tuk (electric vehicle) tours depart near the marina

Other things to know

• The currency is the euro
• Tipping is not mandatory. At the restaurant, you can leave a few euros if you are very satisfied with the service.
• The European emergency number is 112
• Sunday is a day of rest in France, stores are closed, except food stores, until lunchtime. The Muma Museum is normally open.
• Many stores and museums may be closed on Mondays (the Muma Museum is closed).
• If you are looking for clothes, some stores should be open on Mondays and Sundays at the Docks (not the same direction as the city center)
• It is a large seaport, so English is common, but some French people will not speak English at all.

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What to do in Le Havre from the cruise port

You wonder if you should opt for a stay in Le Havre and visit the city? Let me show you all the main points of interest in Le Havre that you could enjoy:

Architecture of Perret

Let’s start with the reason why Le Havre is a Unesco site. Since it was destroyed during World War II, most of the downtown area was rebuilt with a uniform architecture. It was based on the engineering of Auguste Perret who was a pioneer in the use of reinforced concrete. These new buildings have brought many facilities that people did not have before in their homes.

The most stunning pieces of downtown are the town hall with its tower on the side and the unique St. Joseph’s church. Don’t hesitate to enter the church (from 10 am to 6 pm), especially on a sunny day, to see the stained glass windows.

Architecture of Oscar Niemeyer

Right next to where the shuttle stops, you can’t miss the iconic building that we call either “The Volcano” (the volcano) or “The Yogurt Pot” (the yogurt pot). I know, it’s funny. It contrasts sharply with the Perret architecture and we love our theater. It was built in 1982 on the project of Oscar Niemeyer , an architect famous for his modern buildings in Brasilia.

Nature & Art

As we said before, the light of Le Havre has been a source of inspiration for many artists, especially the impressionists. The city has set up displays along the ponds and the coastal promenade to show you some of the paintings where they were created. I think this is a great idea, and although I see them often, I always stop to look at them again.

There is a long walk along the beach that also takes you to the nearby town of Sainte Adresse where the Belgian government was headquartered during the First World War. Note that at high tide, there is no sand, only pebbles. But at low tide, you can walk on the sand. And in summer, small historic beach bungalows appear on the beach, where families come to spend the day.

MuMa Museum

The most famous museum of Le Havre is the André Malraux museum, also known as MuMa . Located at the end of the seaside promenade, near the harbor watchtower, it offers beautiful collections. The museum is filled with light and has a large open structure. On permanent display are paintings from the 15th century to the 20th century with pieces by Delacroix, Boudin, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Manet and many others… It has one of the most prestigious collections of impressionist art outside of Paris. Closed on Monday.

In 2018, it was the 500th anniversary of Le Havre. For the event, modern art pieces were installed and fortunately, some are here to stay. Vincent Ganivet set up 2 modern arches created by assembling colored containers. We love it! It is located at the end of the rue de Paris with the port in the background.

Other buildings

As I said earlier, there is not much left of the old Havre, because it was destroyed during the Second World War. But on the rue de Paris, you can still see the cathedral. It is small. The bell tower dates from the 16th century. The main façade is baroque. Inside, the church’s organs are gifts from Cardinal de Richelieu in the 17th century.

If you feel like walking a little higher. At the end of the main beach walk, you can head to the top of the cliffs. Follow the road and you will reach a panoramic viewpoint. On a clear day, you can see Deauville and Trouville on the other side of the estuary. But whatever the weather, you have superb views of the city of Le Havre with the beach and the bell tower of St. Joseph’s church overlooking it.

It is called ‘Table d’orientation’ or ‘Balcon de l’Estuaire’. GPS – 49°30’26.3 “N 0°04’25.7 “E

Culture and gastronomy

You can also stroll through the streets of Le Havre to discover many bakeries and other stores to understand a little about life in France. Les Halles is a great place to people-watch as many downtown residents come to buy food at this covered market (many stores are closed between 1 and 3 pm). It is located behind Le Volcan.

PLAN YOUR STAY IN Le Havre

• Best things to do in Le Havre
• The beach of Le Havre
• Where to stay in Le Havre
• Where to eat in Le Havre – coming soon
• Weekend in Le Havre

1 day in Le Havre Walk

• Get off the shuttle at the Volcano
• Admire the Bassin du Commerce with its beautiful arched bridge. The statue next to it is in memory of those who died protecting our country.
• Cross the road and admire the architecture of Oscar Niemeyer
• Cross the passage behind and visit the covered market for a snapshot of life in France (if you like bread, see the Boulangerie Portier outside the market (across the street), they make the best bread in Le Havre in my opinion) – Note that the covered market is closed in the early afternoon, it becomes lively again at 3pm
• Walk to the City Hall and enjoy the gardens – appreciate Perret’s architecture – square concrete blocks
• Walk to the beach on Avenue Foch, one of the largest in Europe
• Before the gate-shaped buildings, turn left and walk towards St. Joseph’s Church
• Walk to the sea

Option A – for art lovers

• Walk left along the marina to the MuMa Museum.
• Visit the museum
• Walk towards the double-container arch
• Return to the Volcano via the Rue de Paris and its protected arches to do some shopping, and visit the cathedral on the way.

Option B – for those who prefer the outdoors and can walk uphill

9b. Turn right onto the beach promenade 10b. At the Sainte Adresse sign, either go up or continue on the flat promenade and take the stairs 11b. Enjoy the view from the panoramic viewpoint 12b. Return on foot

Options for a rainy day

Le Havre is not as humid as other regions of Normandy, but it is located in the north of France, by the sea, and therefore receives frequent showers. If it doesn’t rain much, I recommend wearing a good poncho and still enjoying the sunny day program. And you never know, the rain may stop. The main areas you can still enjoy on a rainy day:

• The underground of the Volcano and its library
• The rue de Paris because it has covered passages for window shopping and the cathedral
• The MuMa Museum
• Les Halles, the covered market

Do not make THE SAME MISTAKE WE MADE

On one of our last trips to Europe, a hacker stole our credit card details while we were using a hotel WiFi. So our trip began with a “card blocked” call … Not funny at all! Learn from our mistake, make a small VPN investment to surf without worry .

Shopping and Souvenirs

Looking for souvenirs.

Just before taking the shuttle back to your cruise ship, near the volcano is the “Local Shop” where you can find many Le Havre or Normandy branded items and other local products (location B on the map).

You can also find Le Havre brand products at the reception center (location A on the map)

We also recommend Chocolatier Hautot’s box of chocolate with a fondant caramel heart. It is located near Halles. We love their cakes, but they can’t be transported… So we recommend their super-cool boxes of “Boujous de Normandie” chocolates (Boujous is the local word for kisses).

Want to go shopping?

It’s not our thing, but for those who like it, the main shopping areas downtown are:

• The street of Paris with its local and traditional stores
• Coty Mall where you will find chain stores (location C on the map)
• The docks – outside the Hyper-center, not far from the train station – more chain stores.

Where to eat

Hummmm it’s a difficult question to answer from a tourist point of view… It also depends on where you are in the route… I don’t normally write about food much. But since this is where I live, here are some suggestions:

Baguettes, Sandwiches and Cakes

If you want to taste an excellent French bread, delicate pastries or if you want to opt for a sandwich for lunch, go to Maison Portier, Place des Halles (near location 4). Address : 48 Rue Bernardin de Saint-Pierre – closed on Monday Even after living in many cities and all over the world, my brother, my parents and I still think this is the best bread we have ever tasted.

The Wine bar

In the pedestrian streets north of Les Halles (north of point 3 – 101 rue Victor Hugo), you will find the Wine bar. It’s a place with wine fountains where you can taste the amount you want of each wine. It’s great to be able to taste a wide variety without drinking whole glasses. And their food is also delicious

Lunch options

There are many restaurants in the city center. It depends on what you like. In the summer, we even have temporary restaurants that are set up on the beach. The typical dish to taste is mussels in a cream of camembert.

But some of my favorites are actually not near the hiking trails I gave you…

For fine, gourmet French cuisine, you can visit Jean Étoilé: Luc Tartarin – Address: 73 avenue Foch (along route 6 on the map) (reservation required). And our favorite: Le Margote at 50 Quai Michel Féré (reservations essential).

Nice break if you’re near the container arch

Our favorite little canteen is Calice et Mandibule (at the end of Rue de Paris, not far from the colorful containers). We love the owners’ wholesome approach. The lunch dishes are tasty, and the cakes original and delicious. But what we love most of all is the choice of infusions and teas (and iced tea in summer). They’re excellent!

Nice break for those who are on option B Walk

If you continued to walk along the beach, on the Sainte-Adresse side, you will arrive at a nice restaurant-bar with a terrace on the seaside. His name is LATERAS. It’s a great place for a break with delicious mocktails of freshly squeezed juice and tasty pancakes.

GPS – 49°30’14.7 “N 0°04’40.1 “E

Update: The restaurant-bar has a new owner. The name has changed. We haven’t tried the new one yet. We will update this when we go.

Street Art walk in Le Havre

If you are looking for something different and like Street Art, Jace has created pieces all around Le Havre, notably with a little orange character named Gouzou. You can find a map of all his tags HERE . You can create your own itinerary around it!

Departure from Le Havre / Staying in Le Havre

At certain times of the year, the ships leave just as the sun is setting and you could be enjoying some great colors!

And if you finish your cruise in Le Havre, why not stay a few days to explore the area!

Here are some accommodation options (or see our article on where to sleep in Le Havre )

• Hotel Spa Vent d’Ouest near our famous church and less than 5 minutes walk from the waterfront
• see pictures and availability
• Hotel Spa Pasino inside one of our most impressive buildings with high ceilings, swimming pool and casino – see photos and availability
• The new beachfront hotel opened in 2021: Hilton Garden Inn by the marina with sea views – see photos and availability
• and superb rentals, see the best rated accommodations in Le Havre

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy

Inspiration destinations

• Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
• Our weekend ideas: best-of , romantic , unusual , seaside , luxury , family
• 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
• The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy

• Best things to do in Normandy
• Best cities in Normandy
• Most beautiful beaches of Normandy
• Most beautiful villages of Normandy
• Best castles of Normandy
• Best abbeys of Normandy
• Read our complete guide to visit the Mont-Saint-Michel
• Discover the D-Day sites

• Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
• See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport , Orly airport , Beauvais airport , Caen , Rouen , Bayeux …

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• Visit all the places we tell you about.
• For each city, stay in at least one hotel and visit the ones we recommend.
• For each city, eat in at least one restaurant, visit the ones we select.
• Pay all our invoices in full, refuse any partnership or sponsorship.
• Periodically update our articles, with the help of our readers.
• Enrich our articles with our first-hand experiences.
• Use 99% of our own photos
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• Tell you what we do, and do what we tell you!

Claire and Manu

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À propos de nous

Le Havre Cruise Port Guide | 7 Best Things To Do In Le Havre Port

Le Havre cruise port is one of the major ports in France, located in northern France’s Normandy region, where the Seine River meets the English Channel on the Atlantic Coast. It is one of the most popular cruise destinations due to its proximity to Paris (200 km/125 miles), Normandy beaches (145 km/90 miles), Rouen (92 km/57 miles), Mont Saint-Michel (220 km/137 miles) and other popular French destinations. In this article, read about:

• Le Havre cruise port (Le Havre cruise terminal, getting around, useful tips)
• 7 best things to do in Le Havre port (including shore excursions to Paris, Rouen, D-Day Beaches, Honfleur, Deauville, Mont Saint-Michel, Etretat)

Visit also our cruise port guides to Cherbourg , Lisbon , Gibraltar , La Coruna , Vigo ,  Brugge (Bruges) , Amsterdam

Le Havre Cruise Port

Le Havre port is France’s largest containership port and its second-largest cargo port (after Marseille ). The port consists of a series of canal-like docks and is operated by the national agency “Grand Port Maritime du Havre”. Port of Le Havre is also a popular port of call due to its developed port facilities and capacity to accommodate the world’s largest cruise liners.

Cruise Terminal Le Havre (Terminal Croisière Le Havre) is located at the site called Pointe de Floride (Florida tip). The terminal consists of two docking piers located on Quay Roger Meunier and Quay Pierre Callet . The terminal building features facilities including a Tourist information office, free wi-fi, a couple of shops, security screening, check-in counters, a passenger lounge area, a taxi rank and car rental options.

Le Havre city center is located 2 km/1.3 miles from Le Havre cruise terminal. The walk is on flat surfaces, however, it’s not very scenic as you need to go around the ferry terminal (port Le Havre regularly serves ferries to Portsmouth, UK) and Bassin de la Manche. It takes approximately a 25-minute walk to reach Le Havre downtown.

Alternatively, cruise lines/port authorities may offer shuttle bus transfers into the city, usually for an extra fee. Make sure you check this onboard before arriving at the port. Taxis are available in the terminal.

Le Havre port has announced projects to build three new terminals on the Pointe du Floride site and renovate the existing facilities. You can get updates on these projects at  https://www.havre-port.com/

Getting Around & Local Transportation

• Shuttle buses are typically provided by the port authorities or a cruise line (usually for an extra fee) to Le Havre downtown. Shuttle buses stop at Le Volcan Arts Theater Complex and Espace Coty shopping mall.
• Le Havre train station (Gare Le Havre) is the main railway station in Le Havre and is located 2.2 km/1.4 miles (a 30-minute walk) from Le Havre cruise terminal. It takes around 20 minutes walk to reach the train station if you walk there from Le Volcan. At Le Havre railway station you can catch trains to Paris, Rouen, Honfleur and other destinations. The trains in France are operated by SNCF (France’s national railway company) and you can check the timetables and prices on their official website https://www.sncf.com/
• Le Havre bus station is located at the same place as the train station. Le Havre also has two tram routes and both lines serve the train/bus station.
• Le Havre-Octeville Airport (Aéroport Le Havre-Louis Bleriot) is located only 8 km/5 miles north of Le Havre cruise port, however, the distance by car is 36 km/22 miles or a 35-minute drive.
• Major cruise lines calling at Le Havre cruise port include Norwegian Cruise Line, Cunard Line, MSC Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and AmaWaterways (river cruises).
• The currency in France is EURO (€). Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted.
• Museums and shops in Le Havre may be closed on Mondays.
• Book a private transfer to/from the port of Le Havre 
• Check out Le Havre rent-a-car deals
• Explore tours and activities from Le Havre
• Find accommodation in Le Havre port

7 Best Things to Do in Le Havre Cruise Port

1. le havre.

The bustling city of Havre is best known for its unique post-WWII architecture and its UNESCO-listed city center. After the heavy 1944 bombings, the city needed to be quickly rebuilt and the renowned Belgian architect Auguste Perret was in charge of the project.

The majority of the buildings were built in reinforced concrete, which gave the city a somewhat grey and dim look. However, Le Havre is nowadays a vibrant city featuring amazing museums, a scenic public beach, great shopping opportunities, eateries and much more. While there, don’t miss out on visiting the Museum of Modern Art André Malraux (MuMa Musée d’art moderne André Malraux) which has the second most important collection of Impressionist paintings after the Musée d’Orsay in Paris.

The iconic St Joseph’s Church with its 110-meter high tower dates from 1950 and is a symbol of Le Havre representing the city’s rebirth after the war. The church was made of steel and concrete and offers outstanding panoramic views of the city.

One of the most recognized structures in the city is the modern Le Volcan cultural center designed in the shape of a volcano. While in Le Havre, you can also visit the beautiful, 16th-century stone Le Havre Cathedral , Natural History Museum, or Graville Abbey with its museum housing one of the finest collections of medieval statuary in Normandy.

Check out Le Havre sightseeing tours and activities

Le Havre cruise port is the main gateway to the French capital. Paris is located 200 km/124 miles (a 2-hour 30-minute drive) from the port of Le Havre each way. Due to the distance, the smart idea would be to visit Paris with a cruise ship organized shore excursion because the ship will wait for you in case the tour returns later than scheduled. However, cruise ship shore excursions are often too expensive, so booking a private round-trip transfer to Paris  or a tour with an independent tour operator may be a cheaper option.

Alternatively, you can go to Paris by train (which is not recommended as the trains in France are not always reliable, especially when the ship is in port for a day).

Cruise lines normally offer various shore excursions to Paris. Some of them are guided, while some of them are “On Your Own” options that offer a round-trip transfer with a few free hours to explore Paris on your own (you usually get 3-4 free hours). If you choose to explore Paris on your own, I highly suggest you read my article Paris in a Day: How to Plan a Perfect Day Trip to Paris from Le Havre where I share very useful tips and a full 4-hour itinerary that covers all the major landmarks of Paris!

Here are some of the Paris attractions not to be missed:

• Arc de Triomphe – The iconic triumphal arch stands at Place de l’Étoile at the top of the Champs-Élysées. It was built in 1836 to commemorate those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. It has an observation deck from where you can admire the outstanding views of Paris.
• Eiffel Tower – Gustave Eiffel’s 324-meter-high iron tower is the symbol of Paris and one of the most recognized landmarks in the world. It was constructed in the second half of the 19th century for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World’s Fair) and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tower offers the most spectacular views of the city and has three levels. It is highly recommended to visit the Eiffel Tower with a guided tour or to book the tickets in advance, as lines can be extremely long. The visit can take up to half a day depending on the queuing, so keep that in mind if you have limited time in the city.
• Louvre – The world’s most visited museum is housed in a historic palace in the heart of Paris and boasts a huge art collection including some of the best-known works of art, such as Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. With its striking Louvre Pyramid, it is one of the most visited museums in the world so be prepared for long lines. It takes almost a full day to visit some of the major works of art so it’s highly recommended to purchase the tickets in advance or book a guided tour.
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris – The impressive 12th-century cathedral is located on the Île de la Cité (an island in the Seine River) and is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France.
• Latin Quarter – Home to numerous medieval churches and museums, Panthéon, Sorbonne University and several higher education establishments, Latin Quarter is the oldest district in Paris known for student life and authentic vibe. Here, you can wander around its medieval streets filled with authentic cafes, eateries and bookshops or visit the famous Luxembourg Gardens situated nearby.
• Orsay Museum (Musée d’Orsay) – Housed in a former railway station building, the museum features outstanding 19th and 20th-century European art collections. You need at least a couple of hours to visit the museum and it’s recommended to purchase the tickets in advance.

Check out Paris tours from Le Havre

3. Normandy Beaches

Normandy is a historically important region because of the events that took place in 1944 when the Allied forces disembarked in Normandy to drive Nazis out of France. The beaches where the Allies disembarked are known as D-Day Landing Beaches and they extend over 70 km along the coast of Normandy. There are 5 of them:  Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno and Sword Beach. The entire area consists of numerous WWII monuments, museums, cemeteries and memorials, and some of the most important are:

• The Landing Beaches
• Arromanches-Les-Bains
• Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial
• Pointe-du-Hoc Ranger Monument
• Overlord Museum
• German Battery of Longues-Sur-Mer
• The Memorial Pegasus

You can read about each of these landmarks more in detail in my article 12 Gorgeous Places to Visit on a Cruise to Normandy

Cruise lines normally offer organized shore excursions to D-Day Beaches and these are full-day tours as the driving distance to the sites may take up to a few hours. If you decide to book a shore excursion, make sure you carefully check the itinerary as not all of the places listed above are included in each of the tours (it would take a few days to visit all the sites!).

Normally, tours dedicated to guests from the USA include Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, Overlord Museum and the American Cemetery and Memorial, while the tours dedicated to Canadian guests include the visit to Juno Beach, Canadian Cemetery and Abbey d’Ardenne.

Check out Normandy Beaches tours from Le Havre

4. Mont Saint-Michel

The iconic Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most visited destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This tidal island with its impressive 8th-century Mont Saint-Michel Abbey lies 217 km/135 miles (a 2-hour 45-minute drive) southwest of Le Havre cruise port.

Although Mont Saint Michel is located far from the port of Le Havre, there are numerous full-day shore excursions offered by the cruise line/independent tour operators. One day is enough to visit the island and the abbey, walk along its ramparts, enjoy spectacular views of the bay and visit the village. You can read a detailed Mont Saint-Michel review (as I went on a tour from Cherbourg) in my article How to Visit Mont Saint-Michel on a Cruise (from Le Havre and Cherbourg)

Check out Mont Saint-Michel tours from Le Havre

5. Honfleur and Deauville

The picturesque Honfleur is a port town located on Normandy’s Côte Fleurie (The Flower Coast), 23 km/14 miles (a 30-minute drive) southeast of Le Havre port. Honfleur is easily accessible via the bridge “Pont de Normandie” and you can go there by taxi, train, bus, or on an organized shore excursion.

Honfleur is best known for its colorful harbour lined with charming cafes, picturesque facades, cobblestone streets packed with eateries and authentic, typically French shops, “chocolateries”, “patisseries”, and so much more… Honfleur is so pretty so make sure you bring a camera to capture the beauty and colors of this wonderful place! Some of the historic landmarks that you can visit in Honfleur are The Church of St. Catherine , the largest wooden church in France, and The Church of Saint Etienne which houses the Maritime Museum. 

Deauville is another beautiful place you can visit nearby and the majority of the shore excursions to Honfleur also include a visit to Deauville as the distance between the two is only 17 km/10 miles (a 30-minute drive).

Also called “Parisian Riviera”, Deauville is a popular seaside resort and an upscale holiday destination known for its Casino (the grand Casino Barrier de Deauville), prestigious golf courses, horse races and the annual American Film Festival. While there, make sure you explore the town’s chic boutiques, half-timbered buildings and elegant Belle Epoque villas, or head out to Plage de Deauville for a pleasant walk along the beach. If you are visiting Deauville straight from Le Havre cruise port, the distance between the two locations is around 43 km/28 miles (a 50-minute drive) each way.

Check out Honfleur and Deauville tours from Le Havre

Rouen is another French jewel, the capital of the Normandy region and one of the most beautiful French cities I’ve ever visited. The city lies approximately 98 km/61 miles (a 1-hour 20-minute drive) east of Le Havre cruise port and cruise lines may offer shore excursions to Rouen (depending on the ship’s time in port).

Rouen played a vital role in the Roman era and Middle Ages and grew into one of the largest and richest cities in Europe in medieval times. Its impressive history is more than 2000 years old and nowadays you can admire the city’s rich heritage on a walking tour around the city.

Rouen’s skyline is dominated by the awe-inspiring 12th-century Gothic Rouen Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen) that inspired the paintings of the Impressionist artist Claude Monet. The cobblestone Old Market Square is where Joan of Arc, a French heroine, was burned at the stake in 1431 during the Hundred Years’ War.

Nowadays, you can visit the Church of St Joan of Arc which was built on the place where she was burned, or visit the impressive Museum of Joan of Arc (Historial Jeanne d’Arc), located only a 10-minute walk from the square. Other highlights include Le Gros-Horloge , a 14th-century astronomical clock tower and the 14th-century courthouse where Joan of Arc was sentenced to death.

Rouen is cobblestone and medieval, packed with touristy shops, cafes and eateries. It is easily accessible via train from Le Havre, however, it is recommended to book a guided tour to learn about the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

Explore Rouen tours from Le Havre

The picture-perfect Étretat is the Normandy coast’s seaside resort that owes its popularity to the stunning sceneries and extraordinary landscapes. The resort is located 53 km/33 miles (a 55-minute drive) north of Le Havre cruise port and is famous for its dramatic white chalk cliffs that inspired the works of poets, writers and artists throughout centuries including Monet, Courbet, Leblanc and others.

Étretat has many scenic spots from where you can admire the spectacular rock formations (called “falaises” in French) as well as a pretty town where you browse shops or grab a bite at one of the charming eateries.

Explore Étretat tours and activities from Le Havre

Wrapping Up

Normandy is one of the most beautiful French regions and there are so many places to see! If your cruise ship docks in Le Havre, I highly suggest you book one of the shore excursions to Paris, D-Day Beaches, Rouen, Honfleur, or Mont Saint-Michel, regardless of the driving time as these places deserve it!

Visit also our cruise port guides to Lisbon , Gibraltar , La Coruna , Malaga , Barcelona , Ibiza , Palma de Mallorca , Brugge (Bruges) , Copenhagen , Oslo , Helsinki , Tallinn , Amsterdam

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1 thought on “Le Havre Cruise Port Guide | 7 Best Things To Do In Le Havre Port”

Hi Katarina,

I would love to read about your detailed experience working for VIKING as a concierge. If you have already written it then please let me know.

Thanks, Neha Kumari

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Le Havre, France

ShoreExcursions.com offers an excellent variety of independent shore excursions in Le Havre, France.

Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Le Havre with Unforgettable Shore Excursions

Unforgettable experiences await you.

Explore the wonders of Le Havre with our exceptional shore excursions. Immerse yourself in the enchanting charm of this picturesque destination, where captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience. Our carefully curated excursions are designed to offer you the best of Le Havre, ensuring that your visit is filled with remarkable memories that will last a lifetime.

• Embark on a scenic tour of Le Havre’s stunning coastline, where azure waters meet golden sandy beaches, painting a mesmerizing backdrop for your adventures.
• Dive into the city’s vibrant history as you explore its architectural marvels, including the renowned Saint-Joseph Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Indulge in a gastronomic journey, savoring delectable local cuisine and exquisite wines that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene, with visits to Le Havre’s renowned museums and art galleries, showcasing masterpieces from around the world.
• Take a leisurely stroll through charming markets and boutique shops, where you can find unique treasures and souvenirs to remind you of your unforgettable time in Le Havre.

Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit

Unleash your adventurous spirit as you embark on thrilling activities that Le Havre has to offer. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for a scuba diving adventure or experience the exhilaration of kayaking along the stunning coastline. For nature enthusiasts, embark on a guided hiking tour through breathtaking trails, where you’ll witness panoramic views and encounter diverse flora and fauna that will leave you in awe.

• Feel the adrenaline rush as you try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing, harnessing the power of the wind to glide across the waves.
• Discover the hidden treasures beneath the sea with a captivating snorkeling expedition, exploring vibrant coral reefs and encountering an array of marine life.
• Embark on an unforgettable fishing trip, where you can test your skills and reel in the catch of the day, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
• Unwind with a leisurely bike ride along scenic paths, exploring Le Havre’s captivating landscapes at your own pace.
• Capture breathtaking views from above with a thrilling helicopter tour, offering a unique perspective of Le Havre’s natural beauty.

Unforgettable Memories to Cherish

Create cherished memories with our shore excursions in Le Havre. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or loved ones, these experiences are designed to bring you closer and create lasting bonds. Uncover hidden gems, share laughter and joy, and create stories that will be recounted for years to come.

• Embark on a family-friendly adventure, with activities suitable for all ages, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun.
• Celebrate special moments with your loved ones, whether it’s a romantic getaway, anniversary, or a milestone birthday.
• Capture the essence of Le Havre’s beauty through photography, as you frame picturesque landscapes and create stunning visual memories.
• Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers as you share experiences and make new friends along the way.
• Let the charm of Le Havre ignite your creativity, inspiring you to capture your experiences through art, writing, or any other form of expression.

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THE 10 BEST Le Havre Tours & Excursions

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1. D-Day Landing Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre

2. All-in-One Paris Highlights Shore Excursion from Le Havre Port

3. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches with Lunch from Le Havre Port

4. Normandy D-Day Beaches : Private Tour from Le Havre

5. Paris On Your Own: Round Trip Transfer from Le Havre Cruise Port

6. Paris 2024 Olympics Summer: Shore Excursion from Le Havre Port

7. Half Day tour in Vintage Sidecar Motorcycle from le Havre or Honfleur

8. Normandy landing beaches private day tour

9. Breathtaking Paris: An Odyssey of Wonder from Le Havre

10. Le Havre Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

11. Paris City Tour : Private Tour from Le Havre

12. Paris Deluxe Shore Excursion from Le Havre

13. Cruise into Paris?! A Paris Full-Day Discovery from Le Havre

14. A Full-Day Paris Tour from Le Havre for Cruise Passengers

15. Le Havre to Paris Shore Excursion: Shopping, Dining, Sightseeing

16. Paris on Your Own : Scenic, Savory & Stylish Day from Le Havre

17. Paris River Cruise and Highlights Shore Excursion from Le Havre

18. From Le Havre: Private Paris Shore Excursion with Shared Transfer

19. Paris Deluxe Shore Excursion from Le Havre Cruise Port

20. One day Private Round Tour to Paris from Le Havre Port

21. Paris Gems & Charms Tour for Cruise Passengers from Le Havre

22. Private Guided Tour of the D-Day Landing Beaches from Havre

23. Private 10-hour Shore Excursion to Paris from Le Havre (official guide in Paris)

24. Etretat and Le Havre Private Day Trip from Paris

25. Private 8-hours tour to US Landing Beaches from Le Havre

26. Full Day Private Tour of Normandy American Sites from Le Havre

27. Private Tour: D-Day Beaches from Le Havre US Tour

28. Private Tour: Full Day Tour of Mont Saint-Michel from Le Havre

29. Learn French naturally with our Normandy & Paris Impressionist tour for adults.

30. Private 9-hour tour to Mont St-Michel from Le Havre

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• D-Day Landing Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre
• All-in-One Paris Highlights Shore Excursion from Le Havre Port
• Paris Deluxe Shore Excursion from Le Havre Cruise Port
• Paris 2024 Olympics Summer: Shore Excursion from Le Havre Port
• Paris On Your Own: Round Trip Transfer from Le Havre Cruise Port
• Vedettes Baie de Seine
• Bee Le Havre
• Le Havre Port Center
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Cruise excursions from the port of Le Havre

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Discover Paris

Arriving in Paris, the Eiffel Tower will welcome us and we start our tour on the right bank of the River Seine. We will visit the most expensive neighborhood...

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Mont Saint Michel

This tour will take us to the most popular tourist site in Normandy, Mount Saint Michel, classified UNESCO World Heritage Site. We begin our visit of the ...

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Normandy D-Day Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre Cruise Port

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• Pay your respects at the ceremonial memorial at the American Cemetery
• Witness where  U.S. Army Rangers climbed the steep cliffs at Pointe du Hoc
• Walk in the footsteps of the brave soldiers who landed on Omaha Beach
• Step back in time as your guide gives you poignant information
• Enjoy the convenience of pickup and drop-off at the Le Havre Cruise Port

The beaches of Normandy are constant witnesses to the struggle for our present. It is a place that brings together the memories, the courage and the indomitable spirit of those who shaped the course of history on the beaches of Normandy. Our tour of the Normandy beaches from Le Havre pays deep tribute and promises to remember the historic heroism of the Normandy landings.

German Cemetery: Echoes of Conflict and Remembrance

A trip to the solemn grounds of the German Cemetery, a poignant testimony to the hopeful lives lost during the turbulent days of World War II, will put you in a historical mood. Among the carefully laid tombstones and trodden paths of visitors, you will be struck by reflections on the sacrifices on both sides of the conflict. By following history, you learn to understand and appreciate it, so this initial stop sets the tone before continuing with the key events of the D-Day landings at Pointe du Hoc.

Pointe du Hoc: climbing to the heights of heroism

The famous Pointe du Hoc, home to the U.S. Army Rangers' heroic climb up the fortified cliffs, is an example of courage and determination in the fight for freedom. Standing at the top of these rugged hills, reminders of this audacious attack, which helped secure victory, spread all around us. You will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the historic atmosphere of this place, surrounded by the memory of the valour and scars of the battles that the hill bears.

Omaha Beach

The tranquillity of this place today makes it hard to believe that the historic battle that bore the name of one of the most intense battles during the D-Day landings took place right here on 6 June 1944. The same golden sand, scattered by the boots of American soldiers who bravely faced the formidable German defences. Fierce resistance, costly fighting and difficult terrain earned the beach the nickname 'Bloody Omaha'. Today's tranquillity and beauty of the place is due to the bravery of these soldiers, and we invite you to take a reflective walk on this historic site.

American cemetery: a solemn tribute to sacrifice

The American Cemetery is a place of reverence and reflection. The sight of rows of white crosses and Stars of David is a humbling reminder of the enormous sacrifices made for freedom. A testament to the sacrifice and determination of each of these soldiers, it remains recorded in history as the great price that freedom brings. The tranquil surroundings belies the profound impact of the events that took place here, and as you walk between the graves, you will be reminded of the profound price of freedom.

An intimate and informative experience

The backdrop of picturesque landscapes contrasts with the rich and moving stories of heroism, strategy and sacrifice that took place on these shores. Our experienced guide will lead you through these testimonies of the past to help you gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced and triumphs achieved during Operation Overlord.

What’s Included?

• Pick-up and drop-off at the Le Havre port
• Expert local tour guide
• Shared bus transportation
• Food and drinks

Meeting and Pickup

When you debark from your cruise ship, head outside the cruise terminal. Your guide will be waiting outside the security gate with a sign that says VEXPERIO . Please note : we do NOT meet at the parking lot directly next to the cruise ships. Please head outside of the security gate - it is about a 3-minute walk, 1000ft / 300m.

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1. Port of Le Havre

You will start your tour of Normandy with a hassle-free pick-up from the port of Le Havre. Our experienced guide will meet you at the cruise port, explaining all the steps of your memorable journey.

2. German Cemetery

Embark on a scenic drive to the German Cemetery, opening up a different perspective on World War II. Spend some time exploring this solemn site, with a brief pause for reflection.

3. Pointe du Hoc

Up next is the legendary Pointe du Hoc. Situated on a rugged cliff-top overlooking the English Channel, Pointe du Hoc stands as a testament to the remarkable courage and determination of the American Rangers during the D-Day invasion.

4. Omaha Beach

Continue to Omaha Beach to be absorbed in the reflective atmosphere of this historic site. It witnessed key events during the D-Day invasion and you will have the opportunity to learn fascinating historical facts about the intense battle that took place along this stretch of the Normandy coastline.

Take a break at Omaha Beach to enjoy a meal and relax in the beautiful surroundings before continuing your journey through Normandy.

6. American Cemetery

Our final stop on this solemn journey is the American Cemetery, a hallowed ground overlooking Omaha Beach. Located in a tranquil setting, this sacred site serves as the resting place of more than 9,000 American soldiers whose sacrifice will remain the greatest price of peace. Spend time visiting this sacred site as an example of remembrance and tribute to their sacrifice.

7. Port of Le Havre

End your enriching journey with a relaxing drive back to the port of Le Havre. Take this time to contemplate the significance of the history witnessed on these beaches during the D-Day landings and the courage shown by the Allied forces.

Cancellation Policy

• For groups of 1-6 people: free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance.
• For groups of 7+ people: free cancellation up to up to 7 days ahead. From 6 days in advance to 48 hours in advance, a 50% fee will apply.
• Cancellations less than 48 hours ahead or no-shows result in no refund.

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Important Information

What to bring

• Comfortable shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing

Know before you go

• The Normandy tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and is not wheelchair accessible or suitable for people with mobility issues

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Paris City Drive & Seine River Cruise

Experience the beautiful city of Paris, also popularly known as the City of Light through a scenic drive and a relaxing cruise. Your tour begins with a spectacular drive to Paris. Once arrived, you’ll stop for an unforgettable photo opportunity at the Eiffel Tower. Then, continue with a drive through the city, passing sites such as the Place de l'Opéra, known as one of the most elegant streets in Paris. See the Pont Neuf, meaning “the New Bridge”, the oldest standing bridge in Paris. Also see the famous Louvre Museum and admire the beautiful architecture. After your driving tour, you’ll board your boat and embark on a leisurely lunch cruise along the Seine. Dine on delicious French cuisine while enjoying a musical performance and taking in sites such as the Palais de Chaillot at the top of Chaillot Hill, the Eiffel Tower, the Musee d’Orsay and the Cathedral of Notre-Dame. After your scenic tour, you will return to the pier.

In case of unpredictably high water levels that are above security limits, ships may not be able to cruise. If this is the case, a sightseeing tour by motorcoach will be arranged in lieu of the lunch cruise. Passengers will then have their lunch on board the ship that will be docked alongside the pier.

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Shore Excursion Details

Colorful honfleur, paris (le havre), france.

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A scenic drive will take you from Le Havre via the Normandy Bridge to the city of Honfleur. This colorful port on the Seine estuary has remained a major center for the arts for centuries. The history of Honfleur, which has been sung by many poets and painted by famous artists, has always been tightly bound-up with the sea. Today, Honfleur offers visitors a unique heritage which can be best seen by strolling along the picturesque narrow streets lined by timber-framed houses. Leaving your coach, your guide will escort you to the slightly hilly town center overlooking the harbor. The guided walking tour of the town includes St. Catherine’s Church and its bell tower, the Salt Warehouses, the Lieutenancy, residence of the former Governor of the town and the old port. Enjoy some free time at leisure before the drive back to Le Havre.

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Excursions Le Havre

By Bigmike911 , February 4, 2019 in Cunard Line

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I was looking at possible excursions for my visit to Le Havre in September on the Hamburg, Southampton,Le Havre, NYC crossing. I thought it might be fun to do the US or British landing beaches. Then I looked at the price $999. This has to be some kind of systems failure on the Cunard site. I don't see many folk willing to fork over a grand for an excursion. The visit to Rouen, A taste of Normandy and Versaille are also $999. The visit to Honfleur is $72 and Giverny are $99. 

A day earlier in Southampton Windsor Castle is $113 and Stonehenge is $76. for comparison. So I guess my French choices are limited. What do others think?

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MCC retired

We are on that  cruise also but the Voyage Persinalizer does not show shore tours yet ? I’m sure $999 is a glitch anyway .

Where are you seeing this tour available ?

The specific shore excursions that will be offered for your voyage will eventually be shown in the voyage personaliser. Look for them there about 12 weeks prior to your voyage, perhaps a bit sooner. The excursions shown in the "Destinations" section of the main Cunard website are possible shore excursions that might be offered. And since this is still a relatively new format for the website, I would not put much faith in any of the prices that are shown. Those $999 prices are probably just place holders for the actual prices. I don't remember the old website format ever listed the prices for shore excursions on the main website, just in the voyage personaliser.

I can tell you we did a Cunard shore excursion called the "The American Landing Beaches" from Cherbourg on a Queen Victoria cruise way back in October 2009. This may not help much since that's now almost 10 years ago and it was from a different port, but the cost of that excursion at that time was $145 per person.

3 minutes ago, MCC retired said: We are on that  cruise also but the Voyage Persinalizer does not show shore tours yet ? I’m sure $999 is a glitch anyway . Where are you seeing this tour available ?

Here is a link to the page on Cunard's US website showing the list of possible excursions from Le Havre.

https://www.cunard.com/en-us/ports/le-havre-france.excursions#sort=name asc&start=0&rows=12

Just to follow up on my earlier reply, I took a look at the list of possible shore excursions Cunard is showing from Cherbourg. I am seeing the following offerings there for excursions related to the D-Day landing beaches.

Cotentin D Day Landing Beaches - $84

The American Landing Beaches - $156

The British Landing Beaches - $999

The American Or British Landing Beaches - $999

Not sure how much that helps with what might actually be offered from Le Havre, but I think it does tend to show how those lists of excursions on the "Destination" pages of the main website are still a work in progress.

I am sure the $999 price on the excursions must be a placeholder.   Voyage Q921B, on the old website (US), had "Glasgow On Your Own" (coach from Greenock to Glasgow) at something like $40, now in the new website,  it, (and many other excursions) are listed at $999

1 hour ago, Bigmike911 said: I was looking at possible excursions for my visit to Le Havre in September on the Hamburg, Southampton,Le Havre, NYC crossing. I thought it might be fun to do the US or British landing beaches. Then I looked at the price $999. This has to be some kind of systems failure on the Cunard site. I don't see many folk willing to fork over a grand for an excursion. The visit to Rouen, A taste of Normandy and Versaille are also $999. The visit to Honfleur is $72 and Giverny are $99.    A day earlier in Southampton Windsor Castle is $113 and Stonehenge is $76. for comparison. So I guess my French choices are limited. What do others think?

ignore the $999 just one of the appalling mistakes on the new website  never been to Le Havre  on a cruise but know the area well having taken my father ex Norweigian  Navy many times  P& O website has sample excursions which are usually identical to Cunard in most cases only D Day trip is to the British sector, Pegasus Bridge , Arromanches, mulberry harbour remains and excellent museum, time given 10.5 hours total trip with 5 hours travelling there and back

Omaha and Utah are too far  from Le Havre I suspect

other offerings are Rouen OYO and also a guided tour, Honfleur, various wine tasting tours if that your thing and Etretat    which would be my choice, beautiful setting in a bay surrounded by high chalk cliffs, sea stacks and arches, might however be biased as it was honeymoon destination many years ago 

They did offer the American beaches and the British beaches for the same price. I will look again closer to sailing and perhaps the issue will be resolved. I cannot imagine a company putting a web site together with as many errors as the Cunard site seems to have. 

Oh, sorry, Bigmike911. I see now where you are probably seeing the list of shore excursions for your particular voyage within the Itinerary details for that voyage, not just on the general "Destination" pages for Le Havre. When I go to the itinerary for voyage M930 and select "Find out more" about Le Havre, I see this list of eight shore excursions that make it look like ones that would actually be offered on that voyage. That's as opposed to the list of 14 possible excursions listed on the Le Havre "Destinations" page.

Rouen Revealed - $999

Picturesque Honfleur - $72

A Taste Of Normandy - $999

The British D-Day Landings - $999

The American D-Day Landings - $999

Monet's Garden & Giverny -  $99

Rouen On Your Own - $58

The Palace And Gardens Of Versailles - $999

I'm not sure what to make of that though. I'm not willing to say that's the list of excursions that will be offered on your voyage until you see them listed for sale in the voyage personaliser. As you say, check back later for further updates.

10 minutes ago, bluemarble said: Oh, sorry, Bigmike911. I see now where you are probably seeing the list of shore excursions for your particular voyage within the Itinerary details for that voyage, not just on the general "Destination" pages for Le Havre. When I go to the itinerary for voyage M930 and select "Find out more" about Le Havre, I see this list of eight shore excursions that make it look like ones that would actually be offered on that voyage. That's as opposed to the list of 14 possible excursions listed on the Le Havre "Destinations" page.   Rouen Revealed - $999 Picturesque Honfleur - $72 A Taste Of Normandy - $999 The British D-Day Landings - $999 The American D-Day Landings - $999 Monet's Garden & Giverny -  $99 Rouen On Your Own - $58 The Palace And Gardens Of Versailles - Cost $999   I don't know what to make of that though. I'm not willing to say that's the list of excursions that will be offered on your voyage until you see them listed for sale in the voyage personaliser. As you say, check back later for further updates.

Well, I guess time will tell. I have it down to two possibilities Honfleur, and the American Beaches. 

7 minutes ago, Bigmike911 said: Well, I guess time will tell. I have it down to two possibilities Honfleur, and the American Beaches. 

on UK WS there appears to be no Le Havre excursions listed either in destinations or for your  particular cruise I now ignore the Cunard WS and look at P& O WS which as I said usually offers the same excursion menu, Honfleur is well worth a visit

We did the American sector tour last time (2017) and planing on the British sector this fall.

The excursion price was similar to Overlord’s bus trip, except the ship’s tour also included lunch (three courses, with wine 🙂  )

Toffeegirl68

For those not wanting to go on a formal excursion, St. Joseph's Church in Le Havre is an amazing place to visit. We used the complimentary shuttle into the town centre....

• 3 weeks later...

Here's some information I gathered for a roundtrip crossing from New York in April that I just booked. I thought it might be interesting to compare what the voyage itinerary on the new US website is showing for "Port Activities" versus what the Voyage Personaliser is showing as shore excursions that can be booked.

Southampton

Royal Windsor Castle - $113

Prehistoric Stonehenge - $76

Bombay Sapphire Distillery - $110

Voyage Personaliser

Royal Windsor Castle - Adult: $114

Prehistoric Stonehenge - Adult: $96

Bombay Sapphire Distillery - Adult: $110

Cathedral City of Winchester - Adult: $69

Various Private Tours of Southampton or London - Prices ranging from $560 to $1,100

New York Highlights - $72

New York Insight & Top of Rockefeller - $102

New York Insight & Top of Rockefeller Small Group - $133

Ellis Island by Local Ferry - $59

New York Highlights - Adult: $76

New York Insight & Top of Rockefeller - Adult: $108

New York Insight & Top of Rockefeller Small Group - Adult: $142

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island - Adult: $99

Open Top Bus & Skyline Cruise - Adult: $89

Urban Adventures - Tenements, Tales & Tastes - Adult: $79

Urban Adventures - Brownstone Brooklyn - Adult: $79

In this case at least, I think we can conclude what the voyage itinerary shows is an approximation of what is actually being offered, both in terms of the excursions themselves and the prices.

So, Bigmike911, keep the faith that the American D-Day Landing Beaches excursion will be offered for you in Le Havre and at a reasonable price. As you say, time will tell.

1 hour ago, bluemarble said: Here's some information I gathered for a roundtrip crossing from New York in April that I just booked. I thought it might be interesting to compare what the voyage itinerary on the new US website is showing for "Port Activities" versus what the Voyage Personaliser is showing as shore excursions that can be booked.   Southampton   Itinerary Royal Windsor Castle - $113 Prehistoric Stonehenge - $76 Bombay Sapphire Distillery - $110   Voyage Personaliser Royal Windsor Castle - Adult: $114 Prehistoric Stonehenge - Adult: $96 Bombay Sapphire Distillery - Adult: $110 Cathedral City of Winchester - Adult: $69 Various Private Tours of Southampton or London - Prices ranging from $560 to $1,100   New York   Itinerary New York Highlights - $72 New York Insight & Top of Rockefeller - $102 New York Insight & Top of Rockefeller Small Group - $133 Ellis Island by Local Ferry - $59   Voyage Personaliser New York Highlights - Adult: $76 New York Insight & Top of Rockefeller - Adult: $108 New York Insight & Top of Rockefeller Small Group - Adult: $142 Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island - Adult: $99 Open Top Bus & Skyline Cruise - Adult: $89 Urban Adventures - Tenements, Tales & Tastes - Adult: $79 Urban Adventures - Brownstone Brooklyn - Adult: $79   In this case at least, I think we can conclude what the voyage itinerary shows is an approximation of what is actually being offered, both in terms of the excursions themselves and the prices.   So, Bigmike911, keep the faith that the American D-Day Landing Beaches excursion will be offered for you in Le Havre and at a reasonable price. As you say, time will tell.

I am hoping that for Southampton they have the occasionally offered New Forest Tour. I have done Windsor a number of times and have been to Stonehenge at least four times. I would do the Bombay Sapphire, but I am not a gin drinker. When I was in Southampton last time, I did the walking tour/Titanic Trail, which was interesting but wore me out. It looks like my options may be limited in Southampton. 

AspirationalFlyer

The Monet’s House and Gardens trip was amazing (albeit because of the place itself rather than because of anything Cunard organised). Thankfully the weather was lovely too, with a few nice places to sit and enjoy sandwiches/cake/coffee/wine. 

Although don’t get to excited if there is a guided tour included - after we arrived and was shown the toilets and the main street the ‘guide’ just said you don’t need me and everything is self explanatory.....

On 2/27/2019 at 11:36 AM, AspirationalFlyer said: The Monet’s House and Gardens trip was amazing (albeit because of the place itself rather than because of anything Cunard organised). Thankfully the weather was lovely too, with a few nice places to sit and enjoy sandwiches/cake/coffee/wine.    Although don’t get to excited if there is a guided tour included - after we arrived and was shown the toilets and the main street the ‘guide’ just said you don’t need me and everything is self explanatory.....

But the one thing the Cunard tour does offer you is that the ship will not leave until your Cunard tour bus has returned. 

10 hours ago, Bigmike911 said: But the one thing the Cunard tour does offer you is that the ship will not leave until your Cunard tour bus has returned. 

Of course. Agreed. But the points are exclusive of one another. 

If you pay for a tour, you should get a tour. If they say that all they are doing is dropping you off and picking you up then that is fine too provided it is clear at the point of sale. 

• 1 month later...

On 2/27/2019 at 10:22 AM, Bigmike911 said: I am hoping that for Southampton they have the occasionally offered New Forest Tour. I have done Windsor a number of times and have been to Stonehenge at least four times. I would do the Bombay Sapphire, but I am not a gin drinker. When I was in Southampton last time, I did the walking tour/Titanic Trail, which was interesting but wore me out. It looks like my options may be limited in Southampton. 

I have one more data point to report regarding Southampton shore excursions. The excursions were just posted in voyage personaliser for our upcoming July 14, 2019 call in Southampton on QM2. On that day, they are offering these same four excursions (plus private tours of Southampton and London).

Cathedral City of Winchester

Prehistoric Stonehenge

Bombay Sapphire Distillery

Royal Windsor Castle

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you that they decide to offer a New Forest excursion on your voyage in September.

If you have never been to Honfleur I would suggest it.  It has been said to be the birthplace of Impressionist Painters and it is where Samuel D. Champlain sailed out of to make his North American discoveries.  You will want to stay longer than the tour..so check out the bus schedule for Le Havre ..it is right there by the docks.  Don't worry about getting back to the ship before it leaves... by time the D Day group return ...well let's just say that because of the distance you spend more time on the bus then you do the beach...it's like St Michaels Mount....as far as traveling.

• 2 months later...

On 2/4/2019 at 5:56 PM, bluemarble said: Rouen Revealed - $999 Picturesque Honfleur - $72 A Taste Of Normandy - $999 The British D-Day Landings - $999 The American D-Day Landings - $999 Monet's Garden & Giverny -  $99 Rouen On Your Own - $58 The Palace And Gardens Of Versailles - $999

Now that we're getting closer to the September voyage to Le Havre, I figured the actual shore excursions and prices might be available in the Voyage Personaliser for those on that voyage. If so, I'm curious, how does this list of possible excursions shown in the voyage itinerary compare to what is being offered in Voyage Personaliser and what are the real prices?

22 minutes ago, bluemarble said:   Now that we're getting closer to the September voyage to Le Havre, I figured the actual shore excursions and prices might be available in the Voyage Personaliser for those on that voyage. If so, I'm curious, how does this list of possible excursions shown in the voyage itinerary compare to what is being offered in Voyage Personaliser and what are the real prices?

The D-Day landings were $145 

For Sept 27, 2019 

The Le harve  tours and real prices are now available to book in your Cruise Planner .

On 4/16/2019 at 1:35 PM, myjillian said: If you have never been to Honfleur I would suggest it.  It has been said to be the birthplace of Impressionist Painters and it is where Samuel D. Champlain sailed out of to make his North American discoveries.  You will want to stay longer than the tour..so check out the bus schedule for Le Havre ..it is right there by the docks.  Don't worry about getting back to the ship before it leaves... by time the D Day group return ...well let's just say that because of the distance you spend more time on the bus then you do the beach...it's like St Michaels Mount....as far as traveling.

There is also an excellent museum devoted to Eric Satie (classical music composer) in Honfleur. If you know his music, it is fascinating. Also, a taxi for four people from Le  Havre to Honfleur and return will cost about 120 euros. The driver will either wait for you or return in about four hours.

Honfleur it is, then. I will do the Cunard tour, although the tour is certainly short enough not to risk missing the ship,I like the insurance of booking it through Cunard.

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