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La Rochelle
La Rochelle Cruise Excursion to Green Venice & Wine Tasting
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shore excursions
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Sightseeing
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07 hours
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Small Groups ( 2~8 )
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Relaxed
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Multi-languages
English Français
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Promotion on this Tour !
Use the special code SUMMERVIBE26 and get 10.00% discount
This code is valid for travel dates between
2026/06/19 and 2026/12/31
2026/06/19 and 2026/12/31
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Private Shore Excursion from La Rochelle to visit the Mysterious Poitevin Marais followed by a wine tasting session in a local, carefully selected winery. Take part in an unusual boat ride followed by a tasting of local wines.
Highlights
- Local Tour Guide, Expert of the Region
- Local Food & Wine tasting in a charming village
- Small Group Boat Ride in the wetlands
- Visit the Green Venice National Park
What is Included / Excluded for this tour
Program & Itinerary
La Rochelle Shore Excursion to Marais Poitevin – Green Venice & Food Tasting Embark on a vibrant shore excursion from La Rochelle Port of Call and visit the mysterious Poitevin Marsh, the famous “Green Venice” of France, on board a traditional flat-bottomed boat. Departing from La Rochelle Cruise Port, this Atlantic Coast half-day private tour takes you into the heart of the Marais Poitevin Regional ...
La Rochelle Shore Excursion to Marais Poitevin – Green Venice & Food Tasting
Embark on a vibrant shore excursion from La Rochelle Port of Call and visit the mysterious Poitevin Marsh, the famous “Green Venice” of France, on board a traditional flat-bottomed boat. Departing from La Rochelle Cruise Port, this Atlantic Coast half-day private tour takes you into the heart of the Marais Poitevin Regional Natural Park in Charente-Maritime.
Pick up at your cruise ship in La Rochelle
Your English-speaking driver-guide will meet you directly at your ship in La Rochelle Cruise Port. After a short welcome and overview of the itinerary, board your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and set off toward the Marais Poitevin, one of the largest wetland areas in France.
Boat ride in the Marais Poitevin – France’s Green Venice
Reach the Marais Poitevin, the second-largest wet marsh zone in France, also called “Venise Verte” (Green Venice), a unique landscape shaped by both nature and centuries of human ingenuity. Travel to the charming village of Coulon, considered the capital of Green Venice, where you will board a traditional flat-bottomed boat.
Glide silently through a maze of canals lined with poplars and ash trees as your guide uses a long pole (pigouille) to navigate. Listen to local tales and legends while you admire wild irises, hidden marshes, and historic churches, and watch for birds and other wildlife that thrive in this peaceful ecosystem. A highlight of the experience is the famous “water on fire” demonstration performed by your boatman.
After the boat ride, enjoy free time in Coulon to browse local shops or visit the Maison du Marais Poitevin for deeper insight into the area’s history, fauna, and flora.
Food & wine tasting in Coulon
In the heart of Coulon, continue your discovery with an authentic food and wine tasting that showcases the flavors of the region. Relax in a charming local venue and sample regional specialties such as artisanal cheeses, rustic pâtés, freshly baked bread, and other delicacies, paired with carefully selected local wines. Your host will share stories about local culinary traditions and production methods, adding even more depth to your tasting experience.
This Marais Poitevin shore excursion from La Rochelle is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and food and wine enthusiasts looking for a relaxing, immersive day in France’s Green Venice before returning comfortably to their cruise ship.
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La Rochelle Cruise Terminal – Private Shore Excursion Departure
Meet your English-speaking driver-guide at the La Rochelle cruise terminal and travel by private vehicle toward the Marais Poitevin. The journey leads from the Atlantic coast into the tranquil waterways and rural landscapes of western France.Meet your English-speaking driver-guide at the La Rochelle cruise terminal and travel by private vehicle toward the Marais Poitevin. The journey leads from the Atlantic coast into the tranquil waterways and rural landscapes of western France.Read moreRead less -
Marais Poitevin – Traditional Flat-Bottomed Boat Experience
Enjoy a boat experience along the peaceful canals of the Green Venice. Glide through a quiet maze of waterways beneath overhanging trees and beside lush vegetation, discovering the serene natural character of the Marais Poitevin from the water.Enjoy a boat experience along the peaceful canals of the Green Venice. Glide through a quiet maze of waterways beneath overhanging trees and beside lush vegetation, discovering the serene natural character of the Marais Poitevin from the water.Read moreRead less -
Coulon – Traditional Canal Village
Explore Coulon, a picturesque village at the heart of the Marais Poitevin. Traditional flat-bottomed boats rest beside canals bordered by flowers and village houses, offering a vivid glimpse of local life in this historic waterway landscape. Enjoy a food & wine tasting session.Explore Coulon, a picturesque village at the heart of the Marais Poitevin. Traditional flat-bottomed boats rest beside canals bordered by flowers and village houses, offering a vivid glimpse of local life in this historic waterway landscape. Enjoy a food & wine tasting session.Read moreRead less -
La Rochelle Cruise Terminal – Return to Your Ship
Return by private vehicle to the La Rochelle cruise terminal after exploring Coulon and the Marais Poitevin.Return by private vehicle to the La Rochelle cruise terminal after exploring Coulon and the Marais Poitevin.Read moreRead less
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Practical Information
Know before you book
- This is a private shore excursion from La Rochelle.
- The excursion visits the Marais Poitevin, known as Green Venice.
- The itinerary includes a boat experience through the marshland.
- The tour combines countryside scenery, waterways and local heritage.
- The visit is designed around your cruise ship’s port call.
Know before you go
- Meet your driver-guide at the La Rochelle cruise ship terminal.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around the marsh villages.
- Bring a light waterproof layer for changing weather conditions.
- Dress in layers for comfort during the drive and boat experience.
- Follow your guide’s instructions when boarding and leaving the boat.
Additional information
- Food included: Food & drinks tasting in Coulon
If you want to share your tour with others, you can put it on Cruise Critic. Most of the time this gives good results. You must do this yourself as we are not accepted on their site as a professional business. We accept split payment transactions by credit card.
This private La Rochelle shore excursion is ideal for cruise passengers, private groups, and travellers who enjoy scenic landscapes, quiet waterways, and authentic regional heritage. It is particularly well suited to guests seeking a relaxed way to discover the Marais Poitevin, known as Green Venice, through a combination of private vehicle travel and a boat experience in its peaceful marshland setting.
Voucher info
- Please note: This tour is timed to your ship’s schedule. Your guide will meet you just outside the cruise terminal after disembarkation holding a sign with your name. In case of any last‑minute changes by the cruise line, please check your ship’s daily program and contact us as soon as possible so we can adjust timings accordingly.
Meeting point /
Gare Croisieres Sorata
La Rochelle
Departure
Pick up at Cruise Ship – La Rochelle
Please proceed to exit where your guide will be waiting for you with a sign bearing lead traveler name.
Please proceed to exit where your guide will be waiting for you with a sign bearing lead traveler name.
Return
Drop off at Cruise Ship – La Rochelle Port of Call
Reviews
5.0/5 (1 reviews)
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The Hippodrome Casino
27, Jun 2022
Bonjour,
It was fantastic. Everyone was pleased.
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Included / excluded
Included
- Small group option – maximum 8 people per group
- Transportation in A/C vehicle
- Boat ride in the marshlands
- Tasting of local specialties in Coulon
Excluded
- Meals, drinks unless mentioned in program
- Personal travel insurance & expenses
- Gratuities for the driver/guide
FAQ
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How will I meet my guide on the day of the excursion?
Your guide will meet you at the La Rochelle cruise ship terminal, holding a sign with your name -
What is the main highlight of the From La Rochelle to Green Venice Private Shore Excursion?
The main highlight is the exploration of Green Venice National Park's beautiful wetlands and canals while enjoying a small-group boat ride -
How many participants can join the excursion?
The excursion is designed for a maximum of eight participants ensuring a personalized experience -
What can I expect during the boat ride?
You can expect a serene experience gliding through lush landscapes and a chance to learn about the unique flora and fauna from your guide -
Is there a tasting experience included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a tasting of local specialties in the charming village of Coulon -
How comfortable is the transportation provided?
Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle prioritizing your comfort throughout the trip -
When should I book this excursion?
It’s best to book the private shore excursion in advance to secure your spot aligned with your cruise schedule -
What should I wear during the excursion?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the towpaths and village streets -
What is the cancellation policy for this excursion?
You can get a full refund if you cancel up to 48 hours before the activity, but there’s no refund for cancellations within 48 hours or no-shows -
Is this excursion suitable for nature lovers?
Absolutely, this excursion is ideal for nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful alternative to busy city tours
Secured payments
easy cancellation
