The Arcachon Basin reveals its most beautiful landscapes from the water, with its channels, oyster beds, and huts on stilts. A cruise on the Arcachon Basin remains the best way to explore Île aux Oiseaux and the Dune du Pilat. From our campsite on the Arcachon Basin, several boarding piers are within easy reach, including the one in Andernos.

Here are 8 cruises to set sail on.

The Grand Tour of Île aux Oiseaux: The Stilt Houses

This guided tour takes you to the heart of the Arcachon Basin, past the oyster beds and oyster-farming villages of Cap Ferret. You’ll approach Île aux Oiseaux with the Dune du Pilat as a backdrop. It’s the most popular cruise in the Arcachon Basin!

Visitors’ favorite: the two cabins perched on stilts, unique silhouettes rising from the water.

Practical info :

• The tour lasts about 2 hours and includes commentary on board.
• Multiple departure points, including the pier at Andernos-les-Bains.
• Operator: Union of Arcachon Boatmen.
• Dogs are allowed on board for a small additional fee.

From the campsite, it takes a few minutes to reach the Andernos-les-Bains pier and board the boat:

The Traditional Cruise: A Stop at the Oyster Farmers’ Shores

Aboard a traditional boat, you’ll cruise past Île aux Oiseaux and the oyster beds. The route then follows the Cap Ferret peninsula. The outing includes a one-hour stop in the village of Le Canon.

A visitor favorite: sampling fresh oysters in an oyster shack, with your feet practically in the water.

Practical info :

• Duration: approximately 3 hours, including a 1-hour stopover.
• Departure from the Arcachon marina.
• Operator: Union of Arcachon Boatmen.
• Tastings are arranged on-site, depending on the participating huts.

A Day Trip to the Dune du Pilat and Banc d’Arguin: Heading South

This day trip takes you to the southern part of the Bay and its two natural giants. You’ll travel along the Banc d’Arguin Nature Reserve, a bird sanctuary, and then past the tallest dune in Europe. Approaching these sites from the sea offers a completely different perspective.

A visitor favorite: the Dune du Pilat as seen from the water—a massive wall of sand facing the ocean.

Practical info :

• Daily rate, during the summer season.
• Departure from Arcachon.
• Operator: Union of Arcachon Boatmen.
• Be sure to bring a picnic, water, and sunscreen.

The Ocean Cruise: Entering the Basin by Catamaran

This hybrid catamaran is heading toward the Côte d’Argent and the channels of the Bassin. Making little noise, it glides close to the water’s surface toward the entrance to the body of water. Your gaze then turns toward the ocean and the ebb and flow of the currents.

Visitors’ favorite spot: the strait where the Arcachon Basin meets the Atlantic Ocean.

Practical info :

• Duration: approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Departure from Arcachon.
• Operator: the Arcachon Boatmen’s Association.
• The perfect outing on a clear day with calm seas.

The Evening Cruise: The Bassin at Sunset

At the end of the day, this cruise takes advantage of the soft light of the setting sun. The water takes on an orange hue while the huts stand out against the horizon. It’s the most peaceful cruise on the Arcachon Basin.

Visitors’ favorite sight: the sun sinking behind the Cap Ferret peninsula, reflected on the Bassin.

Practical info :

• Duration: approximately 1 hour.
• Departure from Arcachon.
• Operator: Union of Arcachon Boatmen.
• This outing is offered mainly during the summer.

The dinner cruise: lunch with a view of the Bassin’s scenery

Here, dining comes aboard while you’re out on the water. You can enjoy a leisurely lunch as the boat glides past Île aux Oiseaux and the oyster beds. The dining experience combines exquisite cuisine with views of the water.

A visitor favorite: a meal served as the boat glides along the water, with the ever-changing landscapes of the Bassin providing the backdrop.

Practical info :

• Duration: approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Departure from Arcachon.
• Operator: Union of Arcachon Boatmen.
• Booking is recommended; seating is limited on board.

The Grand Tour of the Basin in a Private Pinasse: Tailor-Made

This private tour combines Île aux Oiseaux, Banc d’Arguin, Dune du Pilat, and Cap Ferret. The skipper tailors the itinerary to the tides and the group’s pace. A stop for an oyster tasting at an oyster farm can be added to the itinerary.

A visitor favorite: a gourmet stop at an oyster farm, featuring oysters and local white wine.

Practical info :

• Duration: 4 to 6 hours, depending on the tide.
• Departures are available from Andernos, Arcachon, and Cap Ferret.
• Private boat for up to 12 passengers, with a professional skipper.
• Operator: Compagnie Maritime de la Presqu’île.

A Pinasse Boat Ride with Oyster Tasting: The Spirit of the Bassin

Nothing is more local than a traditional pinasse gliding across the Bassin. This private tour takes you past Île aux Oiseaux, the oyster beds, and the villages of Cap Ferret. An oyster tasting on board rounds out the experience.

A visitor favorite: 6 oysters from the Bassin served on board, with bread, butter, and a glass of white wine.

Practical info :

• 2-hour, 3-hour, or 4-hour packages, from April through November.
• Departures from Arcachon and Cap Ferret; Andernos upon request.
• Private event starting at €300 for 2 hours.
• Oyster tasting option starting at €11.50 per person.

Do you dream of visiting the stilt huts and sampling oysters from the Arcachon Basin? At Campsite Fontaine Vieille, our campsite in Andernos puts you just a few minutes away from the boarding piers. Book your stay and set off on an unforgettable cruise on the Arcachon Basin!