A question often comes up: How to cross to the island of Groix? Well, simply by boat. And most often from Lorient or Lomener/Ploemeur. In fact, to go to Groix you can cross with the Compagnie Océane or Escal'Ouest boats. Otherwise you can also come visit the island of Groix by your own means: by sailboat or with your motorboat.
In the majority of cases, you will come to Groix via one of the Lorient piers. Here are the means of transport for go to the Gare Maritime de Lorient.
Access the Lorient ferry terminal to go to Groix
The Lorient SNCF station is located a 30-minute walk from the pier to take the Groix boat. Otherwise, the footbridge at the end of the station platforms will allow you to access the bus lines in front of the interchange station. There line 112 will transport you directly to the Lorient ferry terminal.
Once you arrive in Lorient by car, follow the road signs leading to the Gare Maritime with the indication “Embarcadère – Île de Groix”. You can leave your car in the free 250-space car park (unsupervised). As this car park is quickly overcrowded in season, you will have to head towards the paid car parks in Lorient located 10-15 minutes away on foot.
Lorient airport (Lann-Bihoué) is located in the town of Ploemeur, 15 minutes from Lorient and 30 minutes from the boat to Groix. To date, there is no bus connection between the airport and the Lorient ferry terminal from where the Oceane company boat departs. You can get there by taxi or by renting a vehicle from one of the airport agencies.
Companies that make the crossing by boat to Groix
With the means stated, you will be able to reach the Gare Maritime and take the boat towards the island of Groix from Oceane Company. It is the main shipping company which operates crossings every day of the year. Or, you will have the choice of going to Lorient La Base to board the shuttles Escal’ouest. This Lorient company operates crossings between Lorient and Groix all year round.
Laïta Cruises
From the typical port of Lomener to Ploemeur, the company offers maritime connections to Port-Tudy on the “ Touellen » , 48-seater ship.
Many Lorient <> Groix ferries are scheduled every day. The company Ocean can also help you get through.
Escal’Ouest
Escal'ouest makes the crossing to the island of Groix from Lorient La Base in season: from Easter to September, every weekend + every day in July and August.
The crossing also takes 40 minutes. You will also be able to benefit from additional connections on Saturdays in July and August as well as additional boats all summer. Allow €30 for a round trip per adult. There is a promotional rate of €22 for a round trip as well as family rates. You can buy your tickets online or in the local points of sale. Free parking is available.
Note that the Escal'Ouest boat stops at Port-Louis before heading towards the island of Groix.
– Departure times from Lorient-La Base: 09:00 and 16:30
– Departure times from Port Louis: 09:20 and 16:45
– Departure times from Port-Tudy de Groix: 10:15 a.m. and 17:45 p.m.
Details of crossing times and prices: Escal’Ouest website
Details on timetables and stops for the T2 bus serving the Lorient – La base stop: Moovitapp
Before taking the boat to the island of Groix, it is recommended to check times and weather conditions. In the event of bad weather, some crossings may be canceled or postponed. Do not hesitate to contact shipping companies for the latest information relating to navigation conditions.
Some advice for your crossing
Here are some tips to ensure that your crossing takes place in the best conditions:
- Remember to arrive at the ferry terminal in advance, at least 30 minutes before the boat leaves.
- In high season, book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Bring warm, windproof clothing, even in summer, as the crossing can be cool.
- Take a plastic bag for your waste, to preserve the environment and the cleanliness of the island.
Go to Groix by sailboat or motorboat
You can of course come to Groix on your own, whether by motorboat or sailboat. Port Tudy on the island of Groix has places for pontoon boats and buoys. Furthermore, do not hesitate to contact the Groix captaincy before your arrival by sea: 02 97 86 54 62.
Now you have all the information to make the crossing to Groix island ! All you have to do is consult the accommodation solutions for your stay.
Finally, do you want to know more about our little island of Ponant? Go to the home page of the site.