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Cannes Underwater Eco-Museum: A Submerged Art Experience

Explore a unique underwater art gallery off the coast of Cannes, where art meets marine conservation at Île Sainte-Marguerite.

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Discover Jason deCaires Taylor's underwater sculptures off the coast of Île Sainte-Marguerite in Cannes. This unique eco-museum features six monumental portraits submerged a few meters from the shore, accessible to snorkelers and divers alike. The sculptures, made from ecological materials, attract marine life and offer a fascinating blend of art and nature.

A brief summary to Underwater Sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor

Local tips

  • Bring snorkeling gear to fully experience the underwater sculptures; the shallow depth makes it ideal for snorkelers.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Île Sainte-Marguerite's Fort Royal and the Iron Mask Museum for a full day of exploration.
  • Wear water shoes, as the beaches and coves on Île Sainte-Marguerite are rocky.
  • Purchase ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure your spot.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The primary way to reach the Underwater Eco-Museum is by ferry from Cannes to Île Sainte-Marguerite. Ferries depart regularly from Quai Max Laubeuf in Cannes. The crossing takes approximately 15-30 minutes. From the ferry landing on Île Sainte-Marguerite, the Underwater Eco-Museum is located a short distance from the shore on the southern side of the island. Follow the signs towards the Maison Forestière; the sculptures are located a few meters offshore. Cost: Ferry tickets are approximately €18.50 for adults, €17.00 for youths (13-25) and seniors (+65), and €12.50 for children (5-12). Children under 5 travel for free. Special prices may be available for the last trip of the day.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the ferry terminal in Cannes, you can utilize the Palm Bus network. Several bus lines connect various points in Cannes to the area near Quai Max Laubeuf. Check the Palm Bus website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Cost: A single ticket on the Palm Bus costs around €1.50. Note: From Nice Airport, a direct bus (Line 81) to Cannes is available for approximately €20.50 - €20.90.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Cannes and can take you directly to Quai Max Laubeuf. Taxi ranks are located in front of the train station, Palais des Festivals, and major hotels. Cost: A taxi from the Cannes city center to the ferry terminal will likely cost between €15-€25, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. A taxi from Nice airport to Cannes has a fixed prefectural fare of €88.

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Discover more about Underwater Sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor

The Cannes Underwater Eco-Museum, created by renowned British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, offers a unique and captivating experience just a short distance from the shores of Île Sainte-Marguerite. This innovative project, the first of its kind in France and the Mediterranean, features six monumental, three-dimensional portraits submerged in the crystal-clear waters. Each sculpture, standing over two meters high and weighing approximately 10 tons, is crafted from pH-neutral materials designed to attract marine flora and fauna, promoting the rejuvenation of the underwater ecosystem. The sculptures are located between 84 and 132 meters from the shore, at a depth of three to five meters, making them easily accessible to both snorkelers and divers. The faces depicted in the sculptures are those of local Cannes residents, ranging in age from 7 to 78, and reflect the community's diversity. The recurring theme of masks connects to the island's history, notably its role as the prison for the Man in the Iron Mask, and to Cannes's famous film festival. The split mask design represents the ocean's dual nature: strength and fragility. This eco-museum not only provides an artistic spectacle but also serves as a reminder of the importance of marine conservation. The sculptures act as artificial reefs, encouraging the return of underwater life to the area. Visitors can explore this submerged gallery, witnessing the fusion of art, history, and environmental consciousness in a truly unforgettable setting.

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