Sea Guernsey

Heritage - Trading



Because of Guernsey's proximity to France and England it has been an ideal trading port since Roman times. The harbour of St Peter Port is protected by Herm and Sark in the east and from western storms by the island itself. A safe anchorage is vital and the island prospered with heavy trade up the Atlantic coast of Europe.

The island's most prestigious merchant was William Le Lacheur, who, in the 19th century, set up his own shipping line carrying coffee direct from Costa Rica to London. His endeavours assured the future prosperity of this "poverty-stricken and superstitious society" in Central America and Le Lacheur became a national hero, whose ships featured on postage stamps and bank notes.

For further information on William Le Lacheur please click here.

Visit Guernsey

Visit Guernsey

There is much more to discover on the islands of Guernsey

Click Here for More

Sign Up

Sign Up

Receive regular e-mails from Visit Guernsey.

Click Here for More
Coming Up

SWAN RENDEZVOUS 2010 31 May 2010 - 04 Jun 2010

Contact Martin Ozard +44 (0) 1481 265027 or 710365 Organised by the Guernsey combined yacht Clubs - The Swan Guernsey Rendezvous forms part of a worldwide programme of sail...
more info

GUERNSEY LIFEBOAT GUILD ANNUAL DINNER 24 Apr 2010 - 24 Apr 2010

At the Duke of Richmond Hotel 7-7.30 ‘till late Tickets £45 available from the Harbour Office +44 (0) 1481 720229 Live Entertainment with City Limits. Raffle. Black Tie In a...
more info