Cité des Bateliers

The Cité des Bateliers is a museum in Longueil-Annel, France, dedicated to the history and culture of boating. It was opened to the public in July 2000 and offers visitors a unique insight into the world of boating. The museum is located in a region known for its rich boating history, making it a significant cultural site for those interested in maritime history.

Museum Structure

The Cité des Bateliers museum is structured around three main areas. The first is the museum house, which highlights the importance of the village of Longueil-Annel in the world of boating. The second area is the hold of the barge "Freycinet", where visitors can experience the daily life of a sailor, including the supply, loading and unloading of goods, and the challenges of a nomadic lifestyle. The visit concludes with a walk along the canal, marked by five sound kiosks that provide information about the places and activities of boating.

Visit Duration

Visitors should plan for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to explore the indoor exhibits at the Cité des Bateliers museum. Including a walk along the canal banks, a complete visit to the museum and its surroundings can take up to half a day. This allows ample time to fully appreciate the exhibits and the beautiful setting of the museum.

Guided Tours

At the Cité des Bateliers museum, group visits are accompanied by retired sailors. These guides provide a unique perspective, answering questions about the daily life of a sailor and sharing personal anecdotes from their experiences on board. This offers visitors a deeper understanding of the sailor's lifestyle and the history of boating.