Dunkirk, France Cruise Port

Probably best known for the part it played in World War II—the great battle and following evacuation—Dunkirk is a commune in the Nord department of Northern France. Today, its port is a bustling outlet of the famed English Channel that lies mere miles from the France-Belgium border. As France’s third largest harbor, the city’s industry is built on steel, food processing, oil refining, and shipbuilding. Despite the heavy-duty industry angle, Dunkirk remains a popular tourist site offering beautiful landscapes, beaches, and museums featuring excellent paintings, sculptures and other works of art. The history museum, located in a former tobacco warehouse, provides a guided history to the ancient port. There is also daily ferry service to Dover, England with no baggage restrictions making an impromptu international trip plausible and easy. Beyond the harbor, Dunkirk has many places to traverse, shop, and experience the decadent French cuisine.

• Those interested in military history will appreciate the Musee Dunkerque which tells the story of France’s coastal defense during the Second World War and really goes into detail about the widely-remembered Battle of Dunkirk.
   
• For further remembrance of conflicts past, visit the Commonwealth War Graves and witness this stunning, well-maintained tribute to many fallen soldiers from times before.
   
• Discover an intimate, yet thorough collection of maritime life at the Aquarium Municipal. Despite its size, the inventory is sizeable and the species are unique and vibrant.
   
• Explore some unique artistic beauty at the Jardin des Sculptures. This strategically laid out park contains a winding trail to give the spectators an optimal view of the wonderful sculptures that adorn the area.