At 89 Rue des Étrangers in Bordeaux’s Bassins à Flot district, Musée Mer Marine traces maritime history through more than 10,000 objects. Its ship models range from early sailing vessels to modern warships, with especially detailed replicas of the Titanic and ocean liner France. The displays follow navigation from prehistoric times to aircraft carriers and include material on Bordeaux’s port. Temporary exhibitions bring in art and other subjects, so check what is showing during your visit. The museum is a short walk from La Cité du Vin.
A maritime collection in Bassins à Flot
Musée Mer Marine is at 89 Rue des Étrangers in Bordeaux’s Bassins à Flot district, near La Cité du Vin. Its collection brings together more than 10,000 marine objects connected with seafaring and the region’s maritime heritage.
Ship models are a major part of the visit. The collection spans different periods, from early vessels to modern ships, and includes replicas of the Titanic and the ocean liner France. Maps, atlases and navigational instruments add context to the models and the history of travel by sea.
From early navigation to modern ships
The permanent displays are arranged across three floors in chronological order. The story begins in prehistoric times, moves through seafaring peoples such as the Phoenicians, and reaches modern aircraft carriers. Visitors can also find material about Bordeaux’s port and the city’s maritime history.
The subjects extend beyond ships and navigation. The museum includes displays related to immigration, the slave trade and the sea’s fragility. Together, these topics place maritime history within the wider story of people, trade and the ocean.
Temporary exhibitions and planning a visit
Temporary exhibitions add subjects beyond the permanent collection. Past shows have included work by illustrator Jean-Jacques Sempé, ocean photography by Paul Nicklen and David Doubilet, and models of inventions based on Leonardo da Vinci’s notes and sketches. Check the museum’s website to see what is on during your visit.
Allow around one to two hours for the museum. Some labels are printed in small type, and not all sections have English information, so reading glasses may be useful. A lift is available for strollers. The museum is a short walk from La Cité du Vin, making it possible to include both in a visit to Bassins à Flot.
FAQ
How long do you need at Musée Mer Marine?
Allow around one to two hours to see the collection across its three floors.
What can you see at Musée Mer Marine?
The displays cover navigation from prehistoric times to modern aircraft carriers, with ship models, maps, navigational instruments and material on Bordeaux’s port. Temporary exhibitions vary.
Is Musée Mer Marine suitable for children?
Children may enjoy the miniature ship models and ancient objects. A lift is available for strollers.
Is Musée Mer Marine close to La Cité du Vin?
Yes. It is a short walk from La Cité du Vin.
Do you need a ticket for Musée Mer Marine?
Admission is ticketed. Check the museum’s website for current ticket information.
