Set against the ramparts of the Ville Close, Concarneau’s historic harbor is a landmark of the city, both historic and modern. It plays a central role in the economic and social life of the blue city, and attracts thousands of visitors every year. A place not to be missed during your weekend or week in Concarneau at our Concarneau Le Cabellou Plage campsite.
The history of the port of Concarneau
Thehistory of the port of Concarneau dates back to the Middle Ages, when Concarneau was a small fishing village and a simple natural shelter where boats could take shelter from storms.
Over the centuries, the port of Concarneau became increasingly important, thanks to thefishing industry. Local fishermen began to specialize in tuna fishing, an activity that enjoyed great success in Concarneau in the 19th century.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Concarneau was France’s leading tuna fishing port. The town enjoyed a period of prosperity thanks to this activity, which enabled the development of the canning industry and the construction of numerous vessels.
However, tuna fishing declined in the 1960s and 1970s due to overfishing, and the port of Concarneau turned to other activities, notably inshore fishing, yachting and tourism.
Today, Concarneau is a lively marina, with over 600 berths for pleasure boats and numerous restaurants and shops nearby. Nevertheless, the port remains very attached to its past as a fishing port, and organizes the annual Festival des Filets Bleus to celebrate this tradition.
Port of Concarneau activities
Today, the port of Concarneau is home to a wide range of economic activities. First and foremost, fishing remains an important activity in the port, with a wide variety of species caught, from tuna and sardines to lobster and langoustine. Fishing techniques are equally varied, ranging from nets to lines to traps.
The port is also home to industrial activities, with several companies located on the site. These include canneries and fish-processing plants, as well as companies specializing in shipbuilding and boat repair.
Finally, the port of Concarneau is also a major tourist attraction, with several activities on offer to visitors. Boat trips, guided tours of the town and port, exhibitions on fishing and sailing, festivals and concerts are just some of the many activities organized throughout the year in this emblematic part of the town.
Current challenges facing the port of Concarneau
The Port of Concarneau is currently facing a number of economic and environmental challenges. International competition in the fishing industry, dwindling fish stocks and growing environmental pressure are all factors weighing on the port’s future. To meet these challenges, a number of development projects have been launched, aimed in particular at modernizing infrastructures and reinforcing site safety.
Future prospects for the port and the city
Despite these challenges, the port of Concarneau remains an important part of the town’s economic and social life, and plays a key role in its development. Its privileged location on the Atlantic coast, its long history and the wealth of its activities make it an attractive place for visitors and businesses alike. For the future, it is essential to continue developing the port within a sustainable framework, reconciling economic, social and environmental issues.
