The French city of Bordeaux, renowned for its charming historic center and UNESCO World Heritage Site status, is taking a decisive stance against cruise ships. After years of growing discontent from residents, the city’s mayor, Pierre Hurmic, has announced a complete ban on cruise ships docking in the city center.
The decision stems from concerns about the environmental impact and visual intrusion of the large vessels. Residents have voiced their frustrations about the ships’ pollution and their perceived ugliness, particularly in the heart of the historic city. The number of cruise ships visiting Bordeaux has doubled in the last decade, with these massive liners traveling inland from the Atlantic Ocean via the Gironde estuary.
The current docking site, Port de la Lune, is located in the heart of the city’s historical district. To address the concerns, authorities propose relocating the mooring site further north to an area along the right bank of the Garonne River, downstream from the Chaban-Delmas lifting bridge. This move would position the docking area away from the historic sites of the city center.
While the environmental benefits of the ban are widely acknowledged, the proposal has generated controversy. Some businesses worry about the potential economic impact of shifting the docking site. Cruise passengers bring significant income to the city, particularly through wine purchases. However, the mayor emphasizes the importance of preserving the city’s beauty and well-being for both residents and visitors.
Local authorities plan to implement river shuttle and bus services to transport passengers from the new docking site to the city center, mitigating potential inconvenience. The ban represents a significant shift in Bordeaux’s approach to tourism, prioritizing the city’s heritage and environmental integrity over solely economic considerations.
