Fécamp is an attractive town which can be entered at most states of the tide, though you need to be wary around LW springs. It has the further significance for yachtsmen from the UK that it is the western most port on the French coast that be reached in an easy day’s sail from the south coast of England, apart from ports on the Cotentin peninsula like Cherbourg 80 miles away. In addition it makes a useful stepping stone for beguiling destinations in the eastern half of the Baie de Seine such as Honfleur, Deauville-Trouville and Dives-Cabourg.

The best identifying mark from the sea is a group of wind turbines on the cliffs to the east of the town with a small lighthouse next to them. There are no dangers in the offing so long as you avoid the shoals off the Pointe Fagnet to the east. Proceed through the entrance, and the marina is in the Avant Port to starboard. Visitors are accommodated on “C” pontoon.

All facilities are to hand with 3 chandleries, boulangerie at the south-west corner of the Avant Port and several decent restaurants including La Marée on the quayside close to the marina (77 quai Bérigny, T 02 35 29 39 15) or the excellent value Le Vicomté just off it (4 r. Président R Coty, T 02 35 28 47 63).

If storm-bound, try the fishing museum in the Musée des Terre-Neuvas or the exuberantly decorated Palais Bénédictine, origin of the eponymous liqueur. If becalmed there is a large beach.

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