Learning Expedition to the Port of Cherbourg (France) - Autumn 2026

Learning Expedition to the Port of Cherbourg, 13–15 October 2026

The France Ireland Chamber of Commerce (FICC), in partnership with Ports de Normandie and Communauté d'Agglomération du Cotentin, is delighted to invite you to an exclusive Learning Expedition to the Port of Cherbourg from 13 to 15 October 2026.

Designed for senior business leaders and decision-makers, this immersive three-day programme offers a unique opportunity to discover one of France's most strategic maritime hubs and explore new business opportunities between Ireland and Normandy.

Why join?

This Learning Expedition has been designed to foster strategic dialogue and business development between Ireland and Normandy in transport, logistics, offshore wind, energy transition and the maritime sector.

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Discover the Port of Cherbourg and gain an in-depth understanding of its infrastructure, capabilities and future development projects.
• Learn about cross-Channel trade flows and the port's strategic role in connecting Ireland and continental Europe.
• Meet key public and private stakeholders from the Normandy region.
• Identify concrete business opportunities and potential partnerships.
• Expand their Franco-Irish network and explore new suppliers, clients and markets.
• Take part in tailored visits aligned with their sector and business interests.

Why Cherbourg?

As France's leading port for maritime connections with Ireland, Cherbourg plays a pivotal role in cross-Channel trade and European logistics.

Its strengths include:

• Direct ferry connections to Dublin, Rosslare, Portsmouth and Poole.
• A major multimodal logistics platform combining sea, road and rail transport.
• Expertise in Ro-Ro freight, passenger transport and heavy cargo.
• A leading role in offshore wind, hydrogen and energy transition projects.
• Strong ambitions to develop new European supply chain corridors.

Programme Highlights

Tuesday, 13 October

• Afternoon departure from Dublin with Irish Ferries.
• Private cabin and access to the Club Class lounge and workspace.

Wednesday, 14 October

• Welcome networking lunch upon arrival.
• Presentation of the strategic development plans of Ports de Normandie and the Port of Cherbourg.
• Guided tour of the port facilities.
• B2B meetings and networking with public and private stakeholders.
• High-level evening networking dinner.

Thursday, 15 October

• Tailored site visits based on participants' sectors and interests.
• Return journey to Ireland by ferry or via train and air.

Please note that the programme may be adapted according to the profile and interests of the delegation.

Who should attend?

This programme is aimed at:

• CEOs and senior executives
• Transport and logistics companies
• Energy and offshore wind businesses
• Industrial and infrastructure companies
• Fishing and maritime sector organisations
• Companies looking to expand their business between France and Ireland

Registration Fee

From €600 per participant

The fee includes:

• Ferry crossing from Dublin to Cherbourg (outbound) with Irish Ferries
• A curated 1.5-day business programme
• Lunches, networking reception and dinner
• One night's accommodation in Cherbourg in a minimum three-star hotel

About the organisers

• France Ireland Chamber of Commerce (FICC)

The FICC is the leading Franco-Irish business network, supporting companies in developing business opportunities between France and Ireland through events, networking and market insights.

• Ports de Normandie

Ports de Normandie operates key regional ports including Cherbourg and plays a central role in maritime transport, logistics, energy transition and international trade. 

Register here: https://franceireland.odoo.com/survey/a0c717c5-46ad-4b7c-9cd9-ba35dc27f8ba

For further information, please contact: estelle.maurin(@)franceireland.ie