Harbour

Avignon

3.6France

Maximum length: 68 ft
Maximum draught: 9 ft

River port on the Rhône along the Allées de l'Oulle, on the left bank opposite the Île de la Barthelasse, in the city of Avignon.

Guide

Approach and anchoring

Reached via the navigable Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean. Max draught 3 m. The Rhône current is strong, especially during spring snowmelt. It makes a secure place to sit out a mistral, though lines and fenders work hard against the current. The bridge of Saint-Bénezet, known as Pont d'Avignon, is partly ruined and does not obstruct the navigable channel.

Practical

This is a high town quay rather than a marina, with a handful of berths often taken by hotel barges, so rafting up may be needed. Water and power are only on the upstream berths, none at the far end, and electricity is limited to about 6 amps, so carry long leads. The capitainerie is aboard the Chardonnay hotel barge and no one collects the fee, so pay ashore, about 25 to 31 euros a night or 100 euros a week. Heads and showers are on the barge, open only when it is. The fuel berth is often unmanned, so call ahead. Secure bikes and gear, as thefts have occurred.

Ashore

Palais des Papes and the Pont Saint-Bénezet, both UNESCO World Heritage since 1995, less than 500 m from the berths. The Rocher des Doms gardens rise above the palace, and the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape lie a short drive inland. Walks on the Île de la Barthelasse directly across the river. Festival d'Avignon theatre festival every July in venues across the old town.

History

Avignon was the seat of the Catholic papacy from 1309 to 1377, when seven successive popes resided at the Palais des Papes. The city remained papal territory until the French Revolution annexed the Comtat Venaissin in 1791.