Étoile du Roy tall ship
Step aboard L'Étoile du Roy, a stunning replica of an 18th-century frigate, and immerse yourself in Saint-Malo's rich corsair history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday break
Étoile du Roy tall ship
Best Time
Avoid midday break
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step aboard L'Étoile du Roy, a stunning replica of an 18th-century frigate, and immerse yourself in Saint-Malo's rich corsair history.
"An extraordinary and educational experience, highly recommended for history enthusiasts and families!"
🎯 Check Opening Hours
The ship closes for an hour between 13:00-14:00. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment!
💰 Value for Money
Some visitors feel the ticket price is high for the limited open area. Consider if it aligns with your expectations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The King's Star Frigate
Saint-Malo Port
Step aboard a stunning replica of an 18th-century frigate, a true piece of maritime history.
Corsair History Immersion
Onboard L'Étoile du Roy
Learn about Saint-Malo's rich pirate and privateer past through engaging exhibits and crew stories.
Interactive Crew Experience
Onboard L'Étoile du Roy
Engage with a friendly and knowledgeable crew who share insights into life at sea and the ship's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
What to Expect Onboard
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Hours
The ship closes for an hour between 13:00-14:00. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment!
💰 Value for Money
Some visitors feel the ticket price is high for the limited open area. Consider if it aligns with your expectations.
👨👩👧👦 Family Adventure
A fantastic spot for father-son bonding or family fun, sparking imagination and pirate adventures.
📚 Educational Experience
Gain insights into maritime life and Saint-Malo's history; highly recommended for history buffs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Hours
The ship closes for an hour between 13:00-14:00. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment!
💰 Value for Money
Some visitors feel the ticket price is high for the limited open area. Consider if it aligns with your expectations.
👨👩👧👦 Family Adventure
A fantastic spot for father-son bonding or family fun, sparking imagination and pirate adventures.
📚 Educational Experience
Gain insights into maritime life and Saint-Malo's history; highly recommended for history buffs.
🧢 Bring a Hat
Protect yourself from the sun while exploring the decks of this historic vessel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often describe L'Étoile du Roy as an extraordinary and educational experience, particularly for history enthusiasts and families. The ship's authentic atmosphere and knowledgeable crew are frequently praised. However, some reviewers feel the ticket price is high for the limited open space onboard.
"Ship closes for an hour between 13:00-14:00. Went to visit at 11:30 and got rudely told that we couldn't enter because she was on break, even though there where other visitors walking around. The ticket expense wasn't worth it after that, so we chose visit something else."
Snor Emans (Tom)
"The visit of L’Etoile du Roy was an extraordinary experience, not only exciting but also incredibly educational. The ship's historic atmosphere, paired with detailed insights into maritime life and seafaring made the stay (round about 1h) truly special. The "crew" (espacially Jorge, Marie and Emerick - many thanks to the warm welcome abord and the kind words to the three of you) was friendly and knowledgeable, and it's clear how much dedication goes into preserving and presenting this floating piece of history. Highly recommended for history enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting to immerse themselves in another era!"
Sven H.
"I brought me 16-year-old lad to Saint-Malo for some father-son bonding, and what better way to do it than aboard a full-sized, honest-to-Neptune pirate ship! L’Étoile du Roi—“The King's Star” they call it, but I be thinkin’ she’s more like “The Black Pearl's Well-Mannered Cousin.”
She’s a grand vessel, all ropes and cannons and enough timber to make a Viking weep. As soon as we set foot on deck, me son turned into Jack Sparrow and I became Captain Dad-beard. I even attempted a pirate accent, which made him pretend not to know me. A proud parenting moment.
We climbed the rigging (with our eyes, not our limbs—insurance doesn’t cover spontaneous swashbuckling), explored the captain’s quarters, and gazed wistfully at the cannons wondering if we could fire just one. (Spoiler: ye may not.)
The crew—museum staff dressed like landlubbers but friendly enough—answered our questions without even once making us walk the plank for our dad jokes. They told tales of naval battles, the corsairs of Saint-Malo, and the general hygiene conditions of the 18th century, which convinced my son that he would’ve lasted about six minutes in the real pirate era. “No Wi-Fi and dysentery? I’m out.”
The ship be a beauty, restored with care and polished until ye can see your reflection and regret that second croissant.
In short: if ye find yerself in Saint-Malo with a teen who needs a break from TikTok and ye long for the sea breeze in yer face and the faint aroma of historical wood polish in yer nostrils, L’Étoile du Roi is the place. Avast ye boredom!
Bring a hat, bring a sense of adventure, and prepare to call everyone “matey” until they ask you—politely but firmly—to stop.
Yours in rumless reverie,
Captain Midlife Crisis and First Mate Eye-roll (age 16)"
Gideon Martijn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
L'Étoile du Roy is located in the port of Saint-Malo. You can typically walk from the historic walled city (Intra-Muros) to the port area. Public transport options within Saint-Malo are also available, though walking is often the most scenic way to reach the ship. +1
There are several parking lots available in Saint-Malo, particularly near the port and the ramparts. It's advisable to check for paid parking options as street parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Yes, Saint-Malo is accessible from Paris by train, with direct TGV services taking approximately 2.5 hours. This makes it a feasible day trip or a starting point for exploring Brittany.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ship is generally open for visits, but it observes a daily break between 13:00 and 14:00. It's always best to confirm the exact opening hours on their official website or by contacting them directly before your visit, as these can change seasonally.
Ticket prices can vary, and some visitors have noted that the cost might be perceived as high for the experience offered. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing information.
While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time and ensure entry. Some special events, like banquets, require advance booking.
As a historical ship, accessibility can be challenging. There are stairs and uneven surfaces onboard. It's advisable to contact the ship directly to inquire about specific accessibility arrangements or limitations before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit to L'Étoile du Roy usually takes around 1 hour. This allows ample time to explore the decks, learn about the ship's history, and interact with the crew.
You can explore the decks, see the cannons, visit the captain's quarters, and learn about the life of corsairs and sailors. The crew often shares fascinating stories and historical facts.
Many visitors find the experience extraordinary and educational, especially history enthusiasts and families. However, some feel the ship has limited open areas and the ticket price might not match the perceived value.
L'Étoile du Roy is a replica of a French frigate from the 18th century, representing Saint-Malo's historical role as a major port for privateers and corsairs. It offers a tangible connection to this maritime heritage.
Yes, special events like historical banquets are sometimes organized onboard, offering a unique dining and immersive experience. These events often require advance booking.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the ship's impressive rigging, cannons, and wooden details. The views from the deck overlooking the Saint-Malo port are also picturesque. +1
Photography is generally allowed onboard, allowing you to document the historical interiors and maritime artifacts. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific restrictions posted by the crew.
Drone usage is typically restricted in port areas and around historical sites for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the fun, the ship offers an educational experience about Saint-Malo's rich maritime history and the life of corsairs. The crew's engaging stories can make history come alive for younger visitors, sparking curiosity about the past. While the ship has limited open areas, the interactive elements and the sheer presence of a real frigate replica make it an exciting and worthwhile visit for families seeking a unique activity.
🏴☠️ History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
The educational aspect is a major draw, with knowledgeable crew members eager to share insights into maritime warfare, daily life at sea, and the historical context of the corsairs. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the past on a deeper level, understanding the challenges and triumphs of seafaring in a bygone era. It's an opportunity to appreciate the dedication involved in preserving such a significant piece of maritime heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Saint-Malo's Corsairs
The ship itself is a testament to the craftsmanship of the period, meticulously rebuilt to reflect the grandeur and functionality of vessels that once sailed these waters. Exploring its decks offers a tangible experience of what life might have been like for these historical figures, from the intricate rigging to the formidable cannons. The crew's knowledge further enriches this experience, bringing the tales of naval battles and daring raids to life.
Understanding the context of Saint-Malo's corsair history enhances the visit to L'Étoile du Roy. It transforms the ship from a mere historical artifact into a portal to a bygone era of exploration, conflict, and maritime dominance. Visitors can truly appreciate the bravery and skill required to navigate the seas and engage in naval warfare during the 18th century.
Experiencing Life Aboard L'Étoile du Roy
The crew's role is pivotal in making the visit memorable. They are not just guides but storytellers, sharing anecdotes about the ship's history, the lives of sailors, and the significance of Saint-Malo as a corsair city. Their passion and knowledge create an engaging and educational experience, answering questions and bringing the ship's past to life. Many visitors highlight the friendliness and helpfulness of the crew, making the interaction a key part of the visit.
While the ship offers a rich historical immersion, it's worth noting that some visitors find the open areas to be limited. This means the experience is more about absorbing the atmosphere and historical details rather than extensive exploration of multiple decks. However, for those interested in maritime history and the era of privateers, L'Étoile du Roy provides a unique and captivating glimpse into the past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit