An extraordinary experience on the site of the former shipyards. Discover amazing machines: Giant Crab, Pirate fish, Reverse Propulsion Squid, Manta Ray, Jellyfish.
A genuine 360° theatre, nearly 25m high and 22m in diameter has been implanted on the banks of the Loire. Its 3-tier concrete lace design under a big top is decorated with pediments and guarded by 16 fishermen from every ocean in the world. You climb onto an incredible sculpture where you are spectator to strange and worrying sea creatures in a colossal 3-tiered cake. Witness the sea every which way, from the depths of the bottom, through the abysses, right up to the surface of the sea.
See also
Nantes is transforming
Nantes has been getting a major makeover since 2024.
The city is currently undergoing extensive public works, particularly around Île de Nantes (Quai de la Fosse and the Pont Anne-de-Bretagne bridge). Tram Line 1 will be temporarily suspended from mid-June to late August 2026. The city centre and Parc des Chantiers – Machines de l’Île will remain accessible, thanks to replacement buses and to the pedestrian and cycling routes that will continue to be open. Park-and-ride facilities are available to drivers.
For further information
2 Bd Léon Bureau, 44200 Nantes
How to get there?
Parking(s) nearby: Parking Les Machines, Parking Les Nefs
Public transport: Prairie au Duc, Quai des Antilles, Chantiers Navals
Self-service bicycles: Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Grue jaune (n°103), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Machine de l'île (n°43), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Brunelière (n°41), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Gare maritime (n°42), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service René bouhier (n°76), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Antilles (n°104)
Accueil Vélo – Cyclists Welcome certified
Click here for detailed schedules
Annual closure in January.
Due to construction on the pont Anne-de-Bretagne bridge, the Machines de l’Île may sometimes need to adjust their opening hours at last minute. For your own convenience, please check the Machines de l’île website for updates before your visit.
In the event of very high temperatures (+36°C / +96.8°F): For everyone’s comfort and safety, some sites are likely to temporarily close. Decisions to close venues will be taken at the last minute so as to keep them open as long as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience if the site is closed during your visit.
Free for PASS Nantes holders
Book PASS Nantes
For Pass Nantes card holders : free access to the Carrousel and to the Machines Gallery. Ride on the Great Elephant not included in the Pass Nantes.
Book
Mode Forain (free visit with a tour)
Full price 12€
Reduced price 10€ (disabled people / 13-17 years old, students, unemployed please provide proof) - 8€ children aged 4 to 12 years old
Extra tour 3€
Discovery mode (guided and animated tour)
Full price 12€
Reduced price 10€ (disabled people / 13-17 years old, students, unemployed please provide proof) - 8€ children aged 4 to 12 years old
Free admission for children under 4 years old, accompanying adults of people with diabilities and Pass Nantes holders.
