Escal’Atlantic

How about leaving dry land behind for a change, and diving—figuratively, of course—into the fascinating world of ocean liners? It’s a unique experience, and yes, it does come with an entrance fee, but it’s well worth it. Saint-Nazaire and ocean liners go hand in hand. From 1862 until the eve of the Second World War, the city was both a major transatlantic port and a powerhouse of shipbuilding. Regular routes to Central America and the Caribbean set sail from here, aboard enormous vessels built to carry passengers, cargo, and even troops. The shipyard thrived—especially thanks to the vision of the Pereire brothers, prominent businessmen who helped launch Saint-Nazaire and France into the industrial age during the Second Empire. Among the legendary ships that took shape here were the Normandie and the France, two iconic liners that cemented the city’s reputation as the cradle of French ocean travel.Today, this rich maritime legacy lives on at Escal’Atlantic, a museum unlike any other, housed inside the former submarine base. Since its opening in April 2000, it has offered visitors an unforgettable voyage into the golden age of ocean liners. Inside, you’ll find rare collectible objects from legendary ships, interactive multimedia displays, and full-scale reconstructions of cabins, lounges, and other onboard spaces. It’s a fully immersive journey—one that lets you walk in the footsteps of past passengers, as if you were really crossing the Atlantic in style.To top it all off, your visit ends with a symbolic descent… in a lifeboat. The perfect way to disembark from this incredible voyage through time.