Bassin du Paradis Old Harbor
A historic harbor in Calais offering excellent facilities, convenient access to local amenities, and a charming maritime atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the harbor's activity
Bassin du Paradis Old Harbor
Best Time
Enjoy the harbor's activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic harbor in Calais offering excellent facilities, convenient access to local amenities, and a charming maritime atmosphere.
"Best showers we have ever encountered in a marina!"
🚿 Top-Notch Showers
Enjoy incredibly clean, hot, and powerful showers – a highlight for many visitors! :shower:
⏰ Laundry Timing is Key
Start laundry before 7 PM to ensure machines finish before power is cut at closing. :washing_machine:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Marina Showers
Marina Facilities
Experience some of the best marina showers: hot, powerful, clean, and adjustable for ultimate comfort.
Historic Old Harbor Charm
The Harbor Basin
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a historic port, a wonderful sight with a rich maritime past.
Convenient Local Access
Near the Marina
Just a short walk from restaurants, shops, and a vibrant market, making exploration easy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Harbor
Understanding Marina Services
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚿 Top-Notch Showers
Enjoy incredibly clean, hot, and powerful showers – a highlight for many visitors! :shower:
⏰ Laundry Timing is Key
Start laundry before 7 PM to ensure machines finish before power is cut at closing. :washing_machine:
Expertise in demand: Route from Calais to Paris?
Driving down from the ferry at Calais. Good fuel stops+things to see and do enroute?
📞 Lock Gate Communication
Call Calais PORT on your radio to request the lock gate to be opened for entry/exit. :radio:
🚶♀️ Walk to Amenities
Restaurants, shops, and a great market are just a short walk away. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚿 Top-Notch Showers
Enjoy incredibly clean, hot, and powerful showers – a highlight for many visitors! :shower:
⏰ Laundry Timing is Key
Start laundry before 7 PM to ensure machines finish before power is cut at closing. :washing_machine:
📞 Lock Gate Communication
Call Calais PORT on your radio to request the lock gate to be opened for entry/exit. :radio:
🚶♀️ Walk to Amenities
Restaurants, shops, and a great market are just a short walk away. :shopping_bags:
💰 Bridge Sailing Fine
Avoid sailing under the bridge when the lock is open; it can incur a hefty fine. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bassin du Paradis Old Harbor for its exceptionally clean and powerful showers and friendly staff, making it a comfortable stop. Its convenient location near shops and a market is also a significant plus. However, some guests note an unpleasant odor from the seawater within the basin and advise caution regarding laundry machine usage due to power cut-offs at closing time.
"Best showers we have ever encountered in a marina 🙂. Hot and powerful as well as clean and adjustable.
Very friendly crew. Many facilities present.
Only downside might be the seawater inside the bassin, which does not smell to well.
Highly recommended to pay a visit!"
Sanne bast
"Okay marina ? Or not ! Not even placed the office the right place at the map. 😖
#1 No breakfast to ordre or bye, in the office, so you have to walk 700 meters x 2, to find a bakery. .
#2 DO NOT START YOUR LAUNDRY AFTER 7 PM ? as THE OFFICE turn OFF THE elecbricity/power, when THE THEY CLOSES at 8 pm. Then you have to wait until THE DAY AFTER, when they open the office again, and YOU have to ASK them if they will turn ON the POWER to the LAUNDRY so the machine can finish the wash
:-( VERY BAD SERVICE :-( or NO service..) (But The BOSS is nice and very service-minded)
And then it is also forbidden to sail under the bridge (also in rowboat) when the bridge is down and the lock is open. It MAY cost you a 500 € fine. NO ENTEY PROHIBITED SIGNING. NO CLOCKLETTER. NO INFORMATION. NOT ANYTHINGS ABOUT it’s prohibited to sail under the bridge.
( It’s NOT like in Dunkirk. Where They are werry nice and service-minded.)"
Jan Hansen
"👙🩳🧥 We loved Calais Marina, Good showers, toilets, excellent laundry facilities and the staff are super helpful.
🥫 Calais marina is just a short walk from restaurants, shops and a great market.
Prices for the marina are very reasonable and we would definitely go back. 🌀
Just remember to call Calais PORT on your radio to open the lock gate. 🔐"
Good Deeds Sailing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bassin du Paradis Old Harbor is located in Calais, France. If arriving by boat, you'll need to contact Calais PORT on your radio to open the lock gate. For land access, it's a well-known marina area within Calais, accessible by car or public transport within the city.
Yes, Calais is part of cycling routes, and the harbor area is generally accessible by bicycle. However, be aware of the specific rules regarding sailing under bridges within the port area.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, marinas typically have associated parking areas. It's advisable to check with the marina management for the most up-to-date parking information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As a harbor and marina, general access to the public areas is usually free. However, if you are docking a boat, there will be berthing fees.
The marina office typically operates during standard business hours, but it's crucial to note that power for facilities like laundry may be turned off at closing time, so plan accordingly.
The primary restriction involves navigating under the bridge when the lock is open, which can result in a significant fine. Always check local signage and regulations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can expect excellent showers, clean toilets, and good laundry facilities. The marina also offers friendly crew assistance and is a pleasant place to visit.
Some reviews mention that the seawater inside the basin can have an odor, which might be a downside for some visitors.
The marina is conveniently located within a short walking distance to restaurants, shops, and a local market, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and dining.
The historic nature of the old harbor and the maritime activity make it a picturesque location for photography, especially during daylight hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no on-site dining options for breakfast or ordering food directly from the office. You'll need to walk to nearby bakeries or restaurants.
A bakery is located about a 700-meter walk from the marina, offering breakfast options. Plan your morning accordingly to make the most of your time.
The area surrounding the marina is close to various restaurants, providing diverse dining choices for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the essence of the old harbor by photographing the boats, the historic architecture, and the general maritime atmosphere. The surrounding area also offers scenic views.
Daytime offers the best light for capturing the vibrant activity of the harbor. Early mornings can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful of the marina's operational hours, particularly for laundry, to avoid disruptions. The potential for an odor from the seawater within the basin might also be a consideration for sensitive individuals. Ensure children are supervised around the water and aware of any restricted areas.
⚓ Boaters and Sailors
Pay close attention to the regulations, especially the prohibition against sailing under the bridge when the lock is open, as fines are substantial. Plan your laundry and other facility usage around the marina office's hours to ensure uninterrupted service.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
However, be aware of potential costs associated with fines if regulations are not followed, such as sailing under the bridge. Planning your activities around the marina's office hours will help you avoid inconveniences that might lead to unexpected expenses or delays.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Marina: Lock Gates and Regulations
Beyond the lock gates, there are specific regulations to be mindful of. A notable rule is the prohibition of sailing under the bridge when the lock is open. Violating this rule can result in a substantial fine of 500 euros. Visitors should look for any signage or inquire at the marina office to ensure they are fully informed about these restrictions.
Understanding these operational procedures and regulations is key to a smooth and hassle-free experience at the Bassin du Paradis Old Harbor. Community feedback suggests that clear communication and adherence to rules are paramount for all users of the facility.
Marina Facilities: A Traveler's Perspective
Laundry services are also available and generally well-regarded, though with a crucial caveat. Several reviews point out that it's vital to start laundry cycles before 7 PM. The marina office reportedly turns off the electricity at closing time (8 PM), which can interrupt the washing process. This means laundry must wait until the next day, requiring visitors to re-engage with the office to have the power restored.
Beyond these core amenities, the marina boasts friendly and helpful staff who contribute to a positive overall experience. The proximity to local amenities, including restaurants, shops, and a market, further adds to the convenience and appeal of the Bassin du Paradis Old Harbor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit