Saint-Nazaire

The city of Saint Nazaire is situated in the Loire-Atlantique department in western France. This bustling seaside town guards the estuary of the Loire, France’s longest river.

Thanks to its strategic location, Saint-Nazaire holds a long tradition of fishing and shipbuilding and is the birthplace of many legendary ocean liners. From 1862, regular shipping lines stopped off in Saint-Nazaire and the city became a transatlantic harbour for liners on their way to and from America.

MSC Cruises guests will be delighted to learn that St Nazaire holds a special appeal, as many MSC cruise liners have been built and inaugurated here!

Visitors to St Nazaire can increase their nautical knowledge with a trip to Escal'Atlantic, the International Ocean Liner Museum, the city’s heritage museum or the submarine ‘Espadon’ – all are ideal for families and those keen to learn more about ocean-going vessels.

We always strive to please all guests, which is why our excursions cover a diverse array of vacation activities: choose to spend your day away from the ship on one of St Nazaire’s 20 beaches or simply enjoy the best that this French city has to offer with its colourful markets and chic French boutiques.