Look at an ocean and some will see a barrier separating them from the vastness of the world. Others will gaze at a symbol of liberation, of the vastness of possibility. Some just see them as dumps. I’ve always preferred the second metaphor and thankfully, the latter wasn’t the case when I last visited one.
These nine pics were taken in Normandy this past April, the one at top and the first five below facing the Atlantic just north of the city of Carteret, and the bottom three on the English Channel west of Cherbourg. La Manche, or Mor Breizh in Breton, is an arm of the Atlantic, so technically fits just fine in a post on World Oceans Day.
You don’t need me telling you about the crisis state that our oceans are in, about their rising levels, or about the island of plastic garbage floating in the north Pacific that for whatever reason has finally attracted some attention in recent months.
Think instead about the vastness of possibilities that the oceans represent. And enjoy your weekend.

On the horizon, the Channel Isle of Sark

Near La Hague, France, 12-Apr-2012

West of Cherbourg, France, 12-Apr-2012

West of Cherbourg, France, 12-Apr-2012
Oceans are also this week’s travel theme on tireless Ailsa’s popular blog, Where’s My Backpack. Check out plenty of other posts here.






Truly beautiful photos, Bob. Those cottages nestled in the hills by the ocean are spectacular. Great info on stateoftheocean.org too, thanks for the link.
PS I love that you call me tireless, makes me feel like the Energizer Bunny
You mean you’re not?
the seagull really caught my eye
Gorgeous photos. I love looking at water – whether ocean, lake, sea, river……
what a great series of images Bob…I don’t think i could pick a favourite…ohyes I can…the animals do it for me everytime and this one is a beauty
a beautifully composed and seen series of photos!
Merci! And thanks for stopping by.
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Wow … these are great shots, especially that second one. Now I want to go there!
Thanks! You should – early spring is a good time, not crowded at all.
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Lovely photos, I know this is strange but I didn’t know there was a day for oceans.
All beautiful pictures!!!
These photos are stunning! What an array, each one perfection.
Wow! Many thanks!
Wonderful ocean pics. Love that perky looking seagull.
Love your photos, Normandy truly is a beautiful place with lots to see and do, and some excellent landscapes. I visited the Chausey Islands a week or so ago, and have posted some photos on my blog, I can recommend a visit, a day well spent, and some excellent photo opportunities, keep up the good work. Mark
Thanks! Spring was a nice time to visit, and pleasant weather helped as well. Will check out your pics now.