When I visited the Port Museum of Dunkirk, I didn’t just walk through a museum — I travelled through centuries of maritime history. Standing on the quay, facing the calm waters, the first boat that captured my attention was the remorqueur Entreprenant, the first of three remarkable historic ships I planned to explore that day.
Docked right in front of the museum on 9 Quai de la Citadelle, 59140 Dunkerque, France, the Entreprenant carries decades of history within its steel hull.
Built in 1965 in Dunkirk, this tugboat played an important role in guiding vessels safely through the busy port waters for more than thirty years. It wasn’t just a work machine — it was a trusted companion to sailors and captains, helping them maneuver through weather, tides, and the demands of maritime life.
Walking aboard, I was immediately struck by the authentic feel of the ship. The bridge, the control levers, the engine room, even the narrow corridors — all of it whispered stories of countless port operations. You can really sense the daily life of the crew who once worked here, from the steady routine to the moments of intense focus as they guided heavy cargo ships and passenger vessels alike.
What makes this experience even more special is the careful restoration by passionate volunteers. You can see the respect and dedication in every detail — from the polished metalwork to the preserved equipment that has been maintained for visitors to truly understand what life was like on a working tugboat. This dedication doesn’t just preserve history — it brings it to life.
What I loved most about visiting Entreprenant was that I wasn’t surrounded by crowds — just space, silence, and the vessel itself, letting me absorb every detail at my own pace. It was like stepping into a moment frozen in time, where the stories of the ship’s past had room to resonate.
This incredible boat is just the first of three, and I couldn’t wait to continue my journey to the other vessels moored alongside — the Péniche Guilde and other historic ships — each with their own tale to tell.
Visitor Tips — Plan Your Visit Right
✨ Location: 9 Quai de la Citadelle, 59140 Dunkerque, France — right along the historic port.
✨ Museum + Boats Ticket: You can combine your entry to the museum with access to all the boats, including Entreprenant.
✨ Best Times to Go:
- Arrive early in the day when it’s quieter and the light on the water is beautiful.
- Note that access to boats often closes about 1 hour before the museum closes, so plan accordingly.
✨ Getting There: The Dunkirk train station is about a 10‑minute walk from the museum, or you can park nearby and enjoy a short stroll along the harbour.
✨ Accessibility: The museum itself has accessible features, but some boats may be more difficult to explore for visitors with reduced mobility — check ahead if needed.
✨ Combine Experiences: After visiting Entreprenant, explore the other historic boats and even the nearby Risban Lighthouse for panoramic views of the North Sea.
