Anchorage

Île des Hebihens

Shelter: NE, E, S, SE
Seabed: sand, rock, algae
Anchoring: Allowed

Tidal anchorage off the Île des Hébihens in the Baie de la Fresnaye, between Saint-Cast-le-Guildo and Saint-Jacut-de-la-Mer, Côtes-d'Armor.

Beach

Guide

Approach and anchoring

Approach from the north-west leaving the Basse du Chatry to port and the Pierre de la Massue cardinal well clear. Mixed bottom of sand, rock and kelp requires a trip line. Large tidal range, up to 12 m at springs. Sheltered from NE, E, S and SE winds; exposed to the prevailing W.

Practical

Mooring forain on sand patches between rocky outcrops, holding variable. No services on the island. Saint-Cast Port d'Armor 2 NM NW offers 800 berths, diesel, water and a 35 t travel lift. Port du Chatelet at 1.7 NM SE dries out and is reserved for small craft.

Ashore

Landing on the island at low water gives access to the Tour des Hébihens, built in 1722 by military engineer Garangeau to signal enemy ships. Footpath around the islet, 30 minutes. GR 34 coastal path on the mainland at Saint-Jacut for walks to Pointe du Chevet at 3 km.

History

The Tour des Hébihens is one of the watchtowers ordered by Vauban's successor Siméon Garangeau to protect the Rance estuary approaches after the English raids on Saint-Malo of 1693 and 1695. It was decommissioned in 1860.