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Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin

FRCER🇫🇷France

Port Location

About Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin

This major French port on the English Channel handles passenger, Ro-Ro, and general cargo traffic. It accommodates vessels with a maximum draft of approximately 13 meters and is equipped with pilotage and tug services.

Background
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, commonly known as Cherbourg, is a major port city in the department of Manche, Normandy, northwestern France, established on 1 January 2016. The commune takes its name from Cherbourg, the main town of the commune, and from the Cotentin Peninsula. Cherbourg is an important commercial, ferry and military port on the English Channel.

Current Conditions

Loading current conditions…

Vessel Limits

Max Draft
13m
Channel Depth
9ft
Tidal Range
5ft
Elevation
-3m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Fixed, Mobile
Drydock
M
Repair Code
A

History

Established
2016
Operator (Wikidata ID)
Q115902802

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Identification

UN/LOCODE
FRCER
Country
🇫🇷France
Time Zone
UTC+1
Feature Type
PRT (Port)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal tide gate
Shelter
Good

Region

Subdivision
FR-50
Area
UK Coast & Atlantic
Sub-area
English Channel
Latitude
49.6469°
Longitude
-1.6222°

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
35950 →
GeoNames ID
3231119 →
Wikidata
Q21008210 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Official Site
www.cherbourg.fr →
Seamark Type
small_craft_facility
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the draft restrictions at the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
The controlling depth at Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is 13 meters. Draft restrictions should be confirmed with the port authority before arrival, as silting, dredging operations, and tidal conditions can affect available depths. Pilotage is typically required for larger vessels.
How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
The approach to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Jetée du Homet Lighthouse at 0.6 NM to the NE. Other aids include Fort Central (1.7 NM NNE), Fort de l'Ouest (1.9 NM NNW), Fort de l'Est (2 NM NE), Fort de l'Île Pelée (2 NM NE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What major shipping routes pass near the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
The Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is located within the English Channel / North Sea corridor — one of the world's busiest maritime corridors connecting the Atlantic to Northern European ports. This strategic position influences vessel traffic density, anchorage availability, and port scheduling.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
You can track vessels near Cherbourg-en-Cotentin (FRCER) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for FRCER on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
The Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin operates in the UTC+1 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.
What is the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
CHERBOURG (UN/Locode: FRCER), France is a seaport located at approximately 49.64690° N, -1.62224° E.
Where is the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin located?+
Coordinates: 49.64690° N, -1.62224° E. Nearby terminals/ports:ALDERNEY — UN/Locode: GGACI — 49.72713° N, -2.19245° EST HELIER — UN/Locode: JESTH — 49.17820° N, -2.11330° ESAINT SAMPSON — UN/Locode: GGSTS — 49.48333° N, -2.51667° E
What facilities are available at the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
Depths: maximum draft approx. 13 m.
What are the operational restrictions at the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
Entrance/operational restrictions — tide: no specific restriction; swell: no specific restriction; ice: none; overhead limits: none and other: none noted.
What are the communications and port formalities at the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
Communication & port formalities — telephone: not available; radio (VHF): not available; air services: not available; rail: not available; ETA message: not required; quarantine pratique: not available; deratting certificate: not available and first port of entry: not available. Pilotage & towage — pilotage: not available; tug assistance: not available and tug salvage: not available.
What types of vessels historically call at the Port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin?+
Vessel types historically calling: Bulk Carrier, Container, General Cargo, Offshore, Passenger, Ro Ro and Tanker.