View the tide times for Le Havre in Seine Maritime, Normandy. The average tidal range of 4m creates dynamic coastal conditions, revealing rock pools and sandy stretches at low tide while offering excellent conditions for water sports at high tide.
Our comprehensive tide tables for Le Havre include precise high and low tide times, real-time coefficients, and weather forecasts. The 4m tidal range requires careful planning for shore fishing, sailing, and beach activities. Check the daily schedule before heading to the coast.
Average tidal range: 4.0 metres
Ephemeris for Saturday 18 July
Tidal Characteristics at Le Havre
Le Havre experiences a moderate tidal range of 4m, producing noticeable changes in water level between high and low tide. At low water, rock pools and sandy areas are exposed — perfect for exploration and shore fishing. The tidal currents remain manageable, but it is still important to check the tide schedule before heading out.
Water Sports & Activities
Swimming
Check the tide times at Le Havre to find the best swimming conditions. At high tide, the water is deeper and more accessible from the beach. Always swim in supervised areas and be aware of currents, especially during spring tides.
High tide
Calm sea
Sea Kayaking
Kayaking at Le Havre requires careful attention to tide times. Launch at high tide for easier access and deeper water. The 4m tidal range creates varying paddling conditions. Watch for tidal currents, especially near headlands and channels.
High tide ± 2h
Light wind
Shore Fishing
Shore fishing at Le Havre follows the tide schedule closely. As the tide drops, rock pools and sandbanks are exposed, revealing shellfish and crabs. The 4m tidal range at spring tides opens up the richest foraging grounds.
Low tide
Variable
Surfing
Surf conditions at Le Havre depend on tide times and swell direction. Mid-tide often provides the best waves as the tidal range of 4m shapes the break. Check forecasts for optimal sessions.
Mid-tide
Offshore wind
Sailing
Sailing from Le Havre requires awareness of the tide times. The 4m tidal range affects harbour access and channel depths. Plan departure and return around high water for the easiest navigation.
High tide ± 3h
Moderate wind
Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding at Le Havre is best around high tide when the water is calm and deep. The 4m tidal range means low tide may expose rocks and shallow areas. Check conditions before heading out.
High tide
Calm sea
Shore Fishing
Shore fishing at Le Havre is closely tied to the tide schedule. The best opportunities come as the tide drops, exposing rock pools, shellfish beds, and sandy flats. Common species found during low-tide foraging include clams, cockles, mussels, razor clams, and crabs. Always check the tide times and coefficients before heading out — spring tides with high coefficients reveal the richest foraging grounds. A valid fishing permit is required, and minimum size regulations must be respected to protect marine resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tides
What time is the next high tide at Le Havre?
Check the real-time tide schedule at the top of this page for the next high tide at Le Havre. The calendar shows precise times for the coming days. Remember to also check the weather forecast and water temperature to plan your coastal activities safely.
Does the wind affect tide times at Le Havre?
High and low tide times at Le Havre are calculated astronomically and do not change with the wind. However, weather conditions do influence actual water levels: a strong offshore wind can lower high tide levels by 10-30cm, while an onshore wind can raise them. These variations should be considered during spring tides.
How do I read a tide table?
The tide table for Le Havre shows alternating high and low tides throughout the day. Coefficients (shown for each high tide) indicate the amplitude: with a tidal range of 4m, a coefficient of 100 will produce much larger water level changes than a coefficient of 40. Use these figures to plan your activities safely.
Why do tide times change every day at Le Havre?
Tide times shift by approximately 50 minutes each day because the Moon takes 24 hours and 50 minutes to complete one orbit relative to any point on Earth. Coefficients also vary with the alignment of Earth, Moon, and Sun: when aligned (full or new moon), tides are amplified — these are spring tides.
What is the tidal range at Le Havre?
The average tidal range at Le Havre in Normandy is 4 metres. This represents the typical difference between high and low water levels. During spring tides (coefficient above 90), the range can be considerably greater, while neap tides produce smaller differences.
Understanding Tides
The tides at Le Havre follow a semi-diurnal pattern, with two high tides and two low tides each day, shifting approximately 50 minutes later every 24 hours. The English Channel acts as a funnel, amplifying tidal movements as the oceanic tidal wave is squeezed between the coasts of France and England. This resonance effect explains the particularly large tidal ranges observed in this region. Spring tides (coefficients above 90) produce the most dramatic water level changes.
Spring Tides
During spring tides at Le Havre (coefficients above 90), the tidal range can exceed the average 4m significantly. Take these precautions: always check the tide times before walking on the foreshore; never turn your back on the sea; be aware that the incoming tide can advance very rapidly, potentially cutting off your return route; stay well away from sea walls and harbour edges where waves can overtop; keep children under close supervision. In case of difficulty, call emergency services on 196 (sea rescue).
Nearby Ports
Practical Information
Average tidal range
4 metres
Department
Seine Maritime (76)
