Île Tatihou, located near Cherbourg, France, offers snorkeling opportunities around its rocky coastline. The site is particularly noted for the rocky areas surrounding the Vauban tower, a UNESCO-listed structure that provides a habitat for various marine organisms. Water temperatures at this site vary between 9C and 18C throughout the year. Access to the water is possible via both shore and boat entries. This location is suitable for beginners, with a snorkel rating of 3 out of 5. Divers and snorkellers should be prepared for the temperate water conditions characteristic of this region.

Anse du Brick is a sheltered rocky cove located on the northern coast of the Cotentin Peninsula near Cherbourg. This site features shallow rocky reefs accessible directly from the shore, making it suitable for beginners. Depths start at 2 metres and vary across the reef. Water temperatures fluctuate between 10C and 18C throughout the year, requiring appropriate thermal protection. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of potential rip currents and the cold water conditions. Facilities at the site include parking and a cafe for visitor convenience.

Anse du Brick is a sheltered sandy cove located on the Cotentin Peninsula near Cherbourg. The site features rocky outcroppings on its flanks, providing a defined area for surface snorkeling. It is suitable for beginners, though conditions vary and users should be aware of potential surf and moderate currents. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, equipment rental, a cafe, and first aid services. Water temperatures range from 10C in the winter months to 18C in September.

Fort de Chavagnac is an offshore 19th-century fort located 3000 metres from the shore near Cherbourg. The site features artificial rocky foundations that function as an artificial reef, attracting interest from divers and snorkellers. Diving depths range from 4 to 14 metres. Access to the site is by boat only, and guided tours are available. Conditions include moderate currents, though divers should be aware of the potential for strong currents in the area. Water temperatures fluctuate between 10C and 18C throughout the year. The site is suitable for intermediate divers and offers a 4/5 rating for snorkelling.

Landemer Cliffs near Cherbourg offers dramatic underwater topography defined by Green Siltite rock formations. This site features both reef and wall structures, reflecting the strong influence of the Atlantic. Snorkellers should be aware that this is an advanced site due to challenging conditions, including surf, rip currents, and strong currents. Water temperatures range from 10C in the winter to 18C in late summer. Access is via the shore, starting from the Sentier des Douaniers. Given the exposure to open water and variable currents, this location is best suited for experienced snorkellers comfortable with cold water and dynamic marine environments.

The Leopoldville is a technical wreck dive located off the coast of Cherbourg, France. Resting at depths between 38 and 65 metres, this site is reserved for advanced divers. Access is strictly by boat, and the site is characterised by strong, unpredictable currents. Divers must navigate an overhead environment with significant entanglement risks. Visibility typically ranges from 5 to 15 metres, and water temperatures remain cold, between 9 and 13 degrees Celsius. A drysuit is essential for this dive, and careful gas management is required due to the depth and conditions. Divers should plan their entry around slack water and consult with their charter skipper regarding current conditions.

Port du Hable in Cherbourg, France, is a rocky reef site accessible from the shore. The topography is defined by large boulders and deep gullies that offer shelter for various marine life. Snorkellers can observe common species including sea hares, European green crabs, and snails. Less frequently encountered inhabitants include conger eels, spiny spider crabs, rock crabs, sea stars, brittle stars, sea squirts, and shannies. Water temperatures at this site fluctuate between 10C and 18C throughout the year. Due to the nature of the terrain, this site is best suited for intermediate-level snorkellers.

The Brittany & Normandy Wreck is a multi-faceted site featuring a wreck, reef, and kelp forest located 1900 metres offshore from Cherbourg. The site spans depths from 12 to 33 metres, with an average depth of 9 metres. Divers must access the site by boat to avoid dangerous surf and shore breaks at the coastline. Conditions are characterised by moderate currents and variable visibility, requiring strong buoyancy control and careful monitoring of tidal flows. Water temperatures range from 9 to 15 degrees Celsius, necessitating a 7mm wetsuit in summer and thicker gear with gloves and booties during other seasons. This site is suitable for intermediate divers.