Since the beginning of the 20th century, a boat has linked the right bank to the left bank of the Gironde estuary : the Bac makes crossings all year round every day from Blaye to Lamarque.
History of the bac
Emile Gireau was born in Blaye in 1861. He was a lemonade seller and was the first person to suggest the creation of a ferry boat linking the two banks of the Gironde estuary. In 1894, he filed a petition with the Gironde Departmental Council, signed by 74 communes. It requested the creation of a boat linking Blaye to the Médoc, transporting passengers, vehicles and goods.
The first ferry, named Les deux rives, was not put into service until 1934! Today, it is the Sébastien Vauban that has replaced it and which makes 5 to 10 rotations per day depending on the season.
Crossing the largest estuary in Europe
Taking the ferry means leaving the continent and venturing onto the muddy waters of the estuary. As soon as the captain starts and the boat moves away from the quay… you’re on holiday!
While regular passengers, who use this ferry to avoid traffic in Bordeaux and to work on the other side, chat with the sailors, tourists climb onto the deck to admire the scenery. What a view! You can see the Blaye citadel perched on its cliff and pass very close to Fort Pâté and its island before following the left bank and catching a glimpse of Fort Médoc. In fact, you're at the heart of the Vauban Lock , a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
In July and August, Coeur d'Estuaire organizes cruises on the Gironde estuary to tell you about this unique natural area and its islands. But outside of this period, the ferry from Blaye is a good way to get close to the islands, the fishing huts on stilts, the Vauban Lock, and the brown waters swayed by the tides.
Taking the ferry also offers the opportunity, depending on the time of day and the season, to take incredible photos or videos where the colours are never the same… Don't hesitate to tag us @destinationblaye!
Immediate boarding
We recommend that you arrive at the pier 30 minutes before the indicated times, especially if you have a vehicle. Get in the queue and when the boat rings, get on board. During busy times, the sailors will tell you the waiting times.
Pedestrians, cyclists and vehicle passengers must board the boat on foot. Only the driver will board his vehicle of less than 3,5 tonnes. Let yourself be guided by the sailors by listening to their instructions to optimize the space and get as many vehicles on board as possible!
You pay for your crossing once you are on board the boat. Credit cards and holiday vouchers are accepted. Children under 4, accompanying disabled people, dogs, horses and bicycles are free.
Don't stay in your vehicle! Enjoy the scenery and the atmosphere... It takes about 30 minutes for the Sébastien Vauban boat to cross the 3 km wide Gironde estuary and connect Blaye to Lamarque.
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