The Old Port is both a fishing and a marina. To this day, it has retained all its authenticity and traditional charm of yesteryear. Protected by two piers, its basin reaches approximately 3.7 hectares of surface area. As a result, the port has the capacity to accommodate more than 300 places. In addition, its harbor master's office is at the end of the jetty to the south.

Refuelling facilities, sanitary services, as well as facilities for household waste and selective sorting are made available to boaters throughout the year.
Completely renovated, the Old Port of Saint-Raphaël is a must-see place for walks. Indeed, it offers breathtaking views of the bay, but also of the city center and the sumptuous pleasure boats.

The old Port of Saint-Raphaël has obtained the only European certification specific to marinas, that of “Clean Ports”.

Along the fishermen's quay of the Old Port, you will find traditional boats that offer their catch every morning, under the fish market. This place is also a starting point for the various sea trips, which can be taken to explore the surrounding coasts.

The first port development known as the Vieux Port of Saint-Raphaël was built in 1822. It consisted of the southern jetty, followed by the counter-jetty towards the mouth of the Garonne.
In 1842, 300 ships were anchored in the bay. The development of the port and its quays intensified between 1879 and 1917, thus giving way to a real commercial port. Indeed, the commercial growth of the port was favored by the import of cork, coal and hard coal. As for export, it mainly consisted of Dramont paving stones, bauxite and sand.

The Old Port of Saint-Raphaël is also a fishing port. In the past, boats and sailing pointus were used for fishing, while brigs and tartanes were used for coastal navigation. In the middle of the 19th century, three-masted ships and long-distance steam boats christened the route of international traffic.

During the Second World War, the south pier was partly destroyed. As a result, after the war, the Old Port of Saint-Raphaël became mainly a marina, where passenger transport, including excursions, was organised.

In 1959, two jetties were built in the port basin. Between 1976 and 1977, a large esplanade was developed after the widening of the south jetty. Furthermore, in order to secure the basin, projects were studied to extend the large dike or the offshore jetty. In order to facilitate the reception of large ships, the north pier was dug. Subsequently, developments of the old south pier provided an area for fishing as well as shops. Finally, the harbor master's office and the maritime police were accommodated in the large jetty. Furthermore, a sumptuous garden was created above the south pier, called Bonaparte Square.

The Old Port of Saint-Raphaël is a real holiday resort to share simple and pleasant moments with family. In the town of Saint-Raphaël, it is possible to practice multiple activities, such as scuba diving, kitesurfing and other water sports. In addition, this city is an ideal place for bike rides or adventure courses and zip lines.

© photos of the city of Saint-Raphael https://www.saint-raphael.com/