We were attracted by our memories of the TV show form the late 90's and decided to go on a boat tour. We took a tour from the harbour by the two towers which included the approach to Fort Boyard and a stop on Ile d'Aix. This is a great combination. Apart from the TV show the history of building the Fort is incredible spanning from the 1600's to 1800's and an enourmous cost on for it never to fulfil its purpose. A short way further on the Island of Aix is beautiful and a cyclists paradise. It has a small high street with cafes, bars and shops in a tranquil and peaceful setting. It thrip costs E25 each return and a great way to see the sights. The boat is 90 mins out and an hour back with 2 hours on the island.
We rented boat with petrol engine (no permission needed) in Boyardville, which is the best location to reach the Fort Boyard. Price was $100 for 2 hours which is sufficient, journey to Fort take about 20 minutes at full throttle. Maximum distance you can reach Fort is 200 metres, we tried to get closer (50 m), but after few minutes police came to us and told us its forbidden to be so close with the boat. Recommend!
As a french myself, this Fort has been one iconic monument over the past decades. You are allowed to approach on a maximum of 200 meters, set by the Police rules! However, it is a monument that is incredibly respected among citizens and tourists..
It was very interesting to learn the history of Fort Boyard, and of course to see it, but we were a bit disapointed that we were not alowed ashore to see the fort from th inside. Make sure you pick a sunny day for this trip, that makes you able to also enjoy the boattrip, which take approx 1 hour each way. Then the boat circles around the fort for around 20 mins or so, and you get very close.Note: The boats are small with no facilities, so bring your own snacks and drinks if needed :)
I was the captain of one of the Hungarian Team of the "Fort Boyard" show in 2001. We all enjoyed the shot. It was interesting, fun and really challenging. The motor boat ride was wavy, windy and fast. The cells were small and we did not know who will go next and what will be the challenge. We did the first shot so we've had time to stay and look around in La Rochelle. We were not allowed to take pictures in the Forth, but did a lot in La Rochelle. P.S. I can not write 2001 for the date we were there, so pick the latest 2013 Aug.
We took one of the morning cruises from La Rochelle Vieux Port to Fort Boyard and had an absolutely amazing experience. We took tons of pictures. Also lots of memories from when i was a little girl.
A thing you have to see if you like the tv show or just the history, it's a nice journey by boat, kids love it!
Around the 22nd september La Rochelle gives a big display of boats and fireworks its on the closest saturday and well worth a visit in the evening!
A very pleasant ride out to see Fort Boyard. An interesting structure, quite ugly really and big. We also sailed by the island when Napoleon was exiled. A very pleasant afternoon.
My partner and I decided to go on one of the many boats that go out to see the fort . We read the info made sure we were in time - however we then realized there were certainly not enough seats . You basically go out circle the fort and come back but it is a 2.5 hour round trip . Doing this whilst sat on the very unforgiving metal floor was not pleasant . Also make sure that you read up about it before going . we presumed like in England or most other countries we have visited information would be given in a variety , thus us clearly not the case . We didn't understand a word and got rather bored . My partner even feel asleep slouched in the corner on the deck . If you have time to kill then go but get to the boat early to ensure you get a seat .