Every year, crew members calling at Pointe de Floride, where Le Havre's cruise ships are berthed, represent over 25% of those on board (i.e. 156,976 crew members in 2023, for 436,609 passengers).
In contact with passengers, they become our ambassadors. A warm welcome will encourage them to share their experience ashore, and to help visitors discover the emblematic sites and nuggets of our destination.
Some return regularly and know our city well; they visit and shop like cruise passengers. They buy souvenirs in the cruise terminal boutique, which has adapted its range to meet their expectations. The latest study (2018) indicates that crew members spend an average of €22 ashore, making a significant contribution to the local economy. Another good reason to offer them a warm welcome!
To facilitate their access to the city centre, GIP Le Havre Croisières, the cruise terminal operator, offers them free transfers on the shuttles. Their favourite places in Le Havre are the city centre and the beach. When their service allows it, some also take advantage of their proximity to Paris to group together and take a cab ride to bring back a selfie with the Eiffel Tower!
Whenever possible, the GIP Le Havre Croisières facilitates the organization of soccer matches between crew members and shore teams. The most recent match took place in April, between sailors from the Renaissance and a local team.
The Seamen's Club, recently installed in the ferry terminal, near the Pointe de Floride, is a member of the Cruise Club, coordinated by the GIP Le Havre croisière. The GIP also made a financial contribution of €10,000 to the fitting-out of the new Seamen's Club premises, a sign of the importance attached to welcoming sailors to Le Havre.
The Seamen's Club attaches great importance to the well-being of the sailors it welcomes. It has taken advantage of the total renovation of its new premises to add a cosy touch, with modern, comfortable furniture... and even a massage chair! On the leisure front, in addition to a pool table, a football table and karaoke, there are plans to offer sporting activities. On the practical side, the Seamen's club offers currency exchange, free Wi-Fi access and, for some time now, a parcel collection point.
The Seamen's Club, alongside GIP Le Havre Croisières, takes part in the plaque exchange ceremonies on the occasion of inaugural calls onboard cruise ships. This is an opportunity for discussions with the officers and crew members, and introduce them to a destination where welcoming maritime visitors is a priority.
The future cruise terminals, to be completed by 2026, will offer common spaces dedicated to strolling, culture, sport and events, creating even stronger links between crew members and the destination Le Havre!