A growing but controversial practice
Since 2015, La Rochelle has allowed dockside boat rentals via platforms like Airbnb. This exception has enabled the development of an original tourist offer, representing up to 20,000 overnight stays per year. However, this practice has led to neighborhood conflicts and negative impacts on port activity.
Serious consequences for the port
The marina points out several problems linked to these rentals:
- Neighborhood disputes between renters and traditional boaters.
- Premature wear and tear of infrastructure due to intensive use.
- Environmental risks related to uncontrolled discharges into water.
- Safety and insurance issues floating tourist accommodations are difficult to cover.
These issues have led the port to announce the end of this activity as of June 2025.
Unhappy owners
This decision is seen as brutal by boat owners, who used to rent out their boats to finance maintenance or amortize the high cost of berths.
Pascal, a sailboat owner, regrets this unilateral decision:
" A compromise could have been envisaged, such as limiting the number of rental weeks. This ban goes beyond what was necessary. "
Carinne, another landlady, says she was devastated by this measure, which provided a complementary source of income while offering enriching interactions with tenants.
A necessary measure to protect port activity
The Port of La Rochelle, Europe's largest marina with 5,100 berths, stresses that this decision is aimed at refocusing its activity on its primary vocation: welcoming yachtsmen in transit or active boats. Quayside boat rental is still rare in France, but its rapid growth in La Rochelle illustrates an emerging trend. The question of how to manage it remains open in other ports, where the reconciliation of tourism and pleasure boating could take alternative forms.
