Present at the inauguration of the elevator on July 8, 1888, Alexandre Ribot, then deputy for Pas-De-Calais, said “Science today finds the hydraulic apparatus of the Fontinettes remarkable, but who can respond only in a hundred years , our grandsons will not have found better?”
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Your visit to the elevator
Discover the Fontinettes Boat Lift through five visiting areas, offering complete immersion to rediscover the very essence of this exceptional monument. Explore the repair shop, stroll along the towpath and immerse yourself in the sailors' way of life aboard a Freycinet barge.
Save the date
Throughout the season, the Arques Boat Lift offers guided tours and self-guided tours allowing visitors to delve into the fascinating history of this iconic structure. Plus, special events and workshops for children, providing an enriching experience for everyone.

the 14 May 2025 de 14:30 at 15:30
GUIDED TOUR | Boat lift, Neuffossé canal and Fontinettes lock
In the company of our mediators, explore the outside of the Fontinettes Boat Lift and contemplate the grandeur of the human engineering that made nav...
the 14 May 2025 de 14:00 at 15:30
GUIDED BOAT TOURS | Les Fontinettes and the river world
On the Neufossé canal, leaving from the Fontinettes boat lift in Arques, discover the history of river navigation and life on the canals. During th...
the 01 June 2025 in 29 June 2025
FREE VISIT | Audio-guided tour of the boat lift
Unlock the secrets of the Fontinettes boat lift, a jewel of industrial architecture. Go back in time to discover the history of this monument, the on...
Live a unique experience
Welcome to the Fontinettes boat lift, we are on August 16, 1967. You are going to meet Jacques, the caretaker, who is leaving for his last round before the lift leaves its place at the main lock.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this atypical place, relive the inauguration and climb aboard a Freycinet barge.
Frequently Asked Questions
2023 Fee Schedule
Denomination | Price including VAT |
---|---|
Full price | 5€90 |
Reduced Rate (1) | 4€90 |
Free (2) | 0€00 |
Children's workshop | 7€00 |
School rates
Denomination | Price including VAT |
---|---|
School group rates / free visit | 2€00 |
School group rates / guided tour or workshop | 5€50 |
Group rates
Denomination | Price including VAT |
---|---|
Adult group rates (>10 people) | 4€50 |
Guided tour adult group rates (>10 people) | 8€00 |
Multipurpose room rental by the day (9am-6pm) | 180€ |
Reduced rates applicable (upon presentation of proof)
(1) Children 4-15 years old / Students / Seniors (+ 60 years old) / Large family / Accompanying visitor with a disability / Tourism professionals
(2) 4 years old / Job seekers and RSA beneficiaries / People with disabilities / International Counci of Museum members / Education Pass * / Journalists / Guides-lecturers
Online: bank card.
On site: bank card, cash, bank checks, ANCV checks, ANCV Connect.
By bus (Lines 3 or 6):
Stop: Arques Center Ville (Place) Please note: no bus on Sundays and public holidays!
Information : http://mouveo.ca-pso.fr/
By train:
The nearest station is Saint-Omer station (Site TER Hauts de France)
Information : https://www.sncf-connect.com/
By email : info@ascenseurabateaux.com
By postal route: 2 Chem. de la Digue du Smetz 62510 ARQUES