A world-renowned centre of sailing and gastronomy

Port des Minimes, the city’s leisure port, is the biggest marina for pleasure craft in Europe and plays host annually to the largest boat show on water, Le Grand Pavois. The city is home to a fascinating aquarium and the maritime museum is housed on the ship Calypso, which will be familiar to fans of the Marine Biologist Jacques Cousteau.

La Rochelle is also home to a replica of Joshua, the yacht in which Bernard Moitissier became one of the first men to sail around the world solo and non-stop.

La Rochelle is a food lovers’ paradise, the oysters served locally are some of the finest in the world. It has a network of excellent cycle paths for those who prefer two wheels to two feet, and a vibrant arts scene. Oceans of Hope’s visit occurs just ahead the Francofolies music festival.