Questions, answered.

The 9th Armada runs for ten days, from Thursday 17 June to Sunday 27 June 2027, on the quays of the Seine in Rouen, Normandy. The Grande Parade closes the event on the final Sunday.

Access to the quays and boarding the ships is completely free. You only pay for the things around it — accommodation, food, river cruises, guided tours and day trips. Some special activities or concerts may be ticketed.

As early as possible. In 2023, rooms sold out months ahead and prices rose sharply. Book a free-cancellation room now to secure a good rate, then refine your plans closer to the date. See our Where to Stay guide.

Rouen is about 1 hour 25 minutes by direct train from Paris Saint-Lazare. Both Paris airports connect by train or coach in roughly 2–3 hours. During the event, park-and-ride plus public transport is far easier than driving into the centre. More in Plan Your Visit.

Expect 40 or more vessels: historic tall ships and three-masters, naval and military ships, and international sail-training vessels. The official ship list is released closer to the event — join the list and we'll send it as soon as it's confirmed.

Weekdays are noticeably calmer than weekends. The opening days and the closing Grande Parade are the busiest and most atmospheric. Arrive early in the day to walk the decks before the crowds build.

Yes. You can watch from the Rouen quays at no cost, or head downstream to quieter, spectacular viewpoints like Pont Flaubert, La Bouille, Sahurs, Duclair and Jumièges. For a view from the water, book a cruise early — they sell out.

Very. It's free, open-air, and full of ships to explore, street food, music and fireworks. Go early in the day with younger children, plan toilet and food breaks, and keep an eye on the river's edge in the crowds.

Yes — that's what our concierge service is for. Tell us your dates, group size and budget, and our Rouen team will plan hotels, tours and unique experiences and come back within 24 hours.