The Thau lagoon, a step not to be missed on the Canal du Midi
Relating Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea, the Canal du Midi has many waterways accessible to boats and barges without a permit. Several departure bases and itineraries are available for a weekend, short or long stay. And among the essential steps, which are really worth the detour and a break of a few hours or days, you find the Etang de Thau. Covering 7500 hectares, it is the largest in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. Basin oyster and mussel, it is characterized by its moderately deep waters, warm and slow movement. Considered an "inland sea", it is home to many animal and plant species. It is also the ideal place to practice some nautical activities, even if they are regulated in order to preserve this magnificent space.
A lagoon known for its exceptional biodiversity
Etang de Thau has a great natural and ecological richness. More than 400 plant species and 100 animal species have taken up residence there. There are clam, seahorse, sea urchin, sea bream, sole, oyster and mussels of course, and also seaweed and flowering plants. A rare biodiversity that must be protected. Therefore, when navigating with your boat or barge without a license on this lagoon, we ask you to respect the regulations in force. For example, shellfish farming areas are prohibited to navigation when others are regulated (the river channel for example). Speed is also limited - 5 or 25 knots maximum - and in some places mooring is prohibited.
A body of water conducive to water activities
During your step on the Etang de Thau, you can take advantage of it to dock in the ports of Mèze, Sète or Marseillan and discover the many charms of these communes. It's also a good time to enjoy some sweets and enjoy some specialties such as tielle, fish soup, oysters from Bouzigues or brazier mussels. Several water activities are also offered such as sailing, sea kayaking, kitesurfing and windsurfing. But here too, be vigilant and respect the rules in place to avoid harming biodiversity. And if you are interested in the main activities of the communes located around this magnificent basin, go to the museum of Etang de Thau in Bouzigues.
To learn more about this river cruise stage on the Canal du Midi, do not hesitate to contact our team. We will be able to inform you about the conditions of navigation in boat or barge without license.
