After exploring the tugboat Entreprenant and the lighthouse ship Sandettié, we continued our journey through Dunkirk’s maritime heritage with the Péniche Guilde, the third and final vessel of our visit. Unlike the first two ships, the Guilde is a historic barge designed for navigating canals and transporting goods, yet it tells an equally rich story about commerce and river transport in the region.
Docked in the port, the Péniche Guilde immediately impresses with its long, low silhouette, typical of 20th-century cargo barges. Onboard, every detail reflects the daily life of the crew: modest yet functional cabins, workspaces for loading and unloading, and the wheelhouse used to navigate narrow and winding waterways. Walking along the deck, it’s easy to appreciate the discipline and skill required to operate these barges, as well as the simple but demanding life of their crews.
What struck me most was the authenticity preserved throughout the vessel. Volunteers and maritime heritage enthusiasts have done an incredible job maintaining every element in its original state. You can touch the wooden cabins, examine the old engine mechanisms, and imagine a time when these barges were the lifeblood of local commerce.
The Péniche Guilde offers a unique perspective compared to the first two ships: it highlights the importance of cargo transport and trade, connecting Dunkirk’s port to inland waterways. It demonstrates how maritime heritage is not only about seafaring vessels, but also the smaller, hardworking boats that supported the regional economy.
Visiting the Guilde completes the experience of Dunkirk’s historic ships. It gives a tangible sense of life on the water from a practical and economic perspective while allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of these historic barges. Walking aboard the third ship, I felt as if I had truly journeyed through Dunkirk’s maritime history, understanding the different roles each vessel played — guiding, protecting, and transporting.
The Péniche Guilde is a living testament to Dunkirk’s river and port heritage, providing an immersive experience that connects visitors to the lives of the sailors and merchants who shaped the city’s maritime history, and it closes our three-ship exploration in an unforgettable way.
Visitor Tips
✨ Address: Dunkirk Maritime Museum, 9 Quai de la Citadelle, 59140 Dunkirk, France
✨ Tickets: Get the combined Museum + Boats ticket to access all three historic ships
✨ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience
✨ Accessibility: Museum is accessible; some areas of the barge may be narrow
✨ Parking & Transport: 10-minute walk from Dunkirk train station; parking available near the port
✨ Combine Visits: Explore all three historic ships, then take a stroll along the harbor for panoramic views
