The Argonaute’s Journey: From Naval Service to Museum Ship
Construction and Naval Service
The Argonaute (S636) is an Aréthuse-class submarine, conceived in the post-World War II era to serve French strategic interests in the Mediterranean. Built at Arsenal de Cherbourg, it was launched in 1957 and commissioned in 1959, serving as flagship of the Toulon submarine squadron. Over 24 years, Argonaute logged more than 210,000 nautical miles, specializing in surveillance, reconnaissance, and anti-submarine operations.
Decommissioning and Preservation
Decommissioned in 1982, the submarine was preserved thanks to advocacy by maritime heritage organizations. In 1984, the French Ministry of Defence authorized its transfer to Paris, entrusting it to the Association des Amis du musée de la mer for conversion to a museum. (uk.tourisme93.com)
The Transfer to Paris
Transporting Argonaute from Toulon to Paris was a feat of engineering. The vessel traveled by barge around Gibraltar to Le Havre, up the Seine to Gennevilliers, and through the Canal Saint-Denis, negotiating locks and shallow waters with the aid of flotation balloons. Once at Parc de la Villette, massive cranes placed the 400-ton submarine on land, where it was restored for public access. (uk.tourisme93.com, cite-sciences.fr)
Restoration and Museum Adaptation
The submarine’s interior was meticulously preserved, maintaining authentic control panels, crew quarters, and operational equipment. Educational panels, audio guides, and multimedia displays were added to interpret submarine life and naval technology for visitors. (cite-sciences.fr)
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Visiting Hours
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry 30 minutes before closing)
- Closed Mondays and select public holidays
- Note Seasonal variations or special closures may apply. Check the official website before visiting. (Wanderlog)
Tickets and Reservations
- Entry Included with the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie ticket (typically €12-€16 for adults; discounts for children, students, and seniors)
- Reservations Strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Timed entry slots every 15 minutes help regulate visitor flow.
- Purchase Online or at the museum entrance
Note: The Paris Museum Pass does not include the Argonaute. (ParisEater)
Accessibility
- Physical Access Due to steep ladders, narrow hatches, and confined corridors, the submarine is not accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, wheelchairs, or strollers. Children under two years old are not permitted.
- Assistance Alternative experiences, such as virtual tours and external displays, are available for those unable to access the interior.
- Safety Visitors receive safety instructions at entry, and staff are present throughout the tour.
Visitor Guidelines
- Photography Allowed for personal use; flash and tripods are prohibited.
- Conduct No eating, drinking, or smoking inside. Please respect the historic equipment and follow staff instructions.
How to Get to the Argonaute Submarine Museum
- Address 30 Avenue Corentin Cariou, 75019 Paris, France
- Metro Line 7 to “Corentin Cariou” or “Porte de la Villette” (short walk)
- Bus Lines 75, 151, 249 serve the area
- Car Limited parking at Parc de la Villette; public transport is recommended (Wanderlog)
The Onboard Experience: What to Expect
Tour Options
- Self-Guided Tours Informational panels in French and English detail the submarine’s history, technology, and crew life.
- Audio Guides Available for an additional fee; provide in-depth stories and technical explanations.
- Occasional Guided Tours Led by museum staff or former crew, offering personal anecdotes and expert insights.
Interior Layout
- Main Compartments Torpedo room, control room, crew quarters, galley, engine room
- Authenticity The submarine is presented as it was during service, with original fittings and operational equipment.
- Sensory Features Ambient sounds, tactile surfaces, and multimedia displays enhance the visit.
Duration and Flow
- Recommended Visit 30–45 minutes inside the submarine
- Capacity Control Timed entry ensures comfort and safety; brief waits may occur during busy periods.
Technical and Historical Highlights
- Length 49–50 meters
- Displacement Approximately 400 tons
- Crew 40 men
- Propulsion Diesel-electric, silent underwater operation
- Speed & Endurance Max speed 14 knots; endurance up to 150 nautical miles at low speed
- Hull High-elasticity steel, designed for deep-water pressure resistance
- Armament Four forward torpedo tubes (cite-sciences.fr)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays and public holidays.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Entry is included with Cité des Sciences ticket (€12–€16 for adults, discounts for others).
Q: Is the submarine accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The interior is not accessible to wheelchairs or visitors with significant mobility restrictions. Virtual alternatives are available.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, yes. Audio guides are offered for regular visits—check the museum site for schedules.
Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Yes, but no flash or tripods.
Q: Are strollers or large bags permitted?
A: No. Lockers are available at the museum entrance.
Nearby Attractions in Paris
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie Europe’s largest science museum, with hands-on exhibits for all ages
- Philharmonie de Paris Concert hall and music museum
- Grande Halle de la Villette Cultural events and exhibitions
- Parc de la Villette Expansive urban park with gardens, playgrounds, and walking trails
- Canal de l’Ourcq Picturesque setting for walks or picnics (Wanderlog)
