11-Day Sailing Voyage along France’s Atlantic Coast
Step aboard the Eendracht for an unforgettable voyage along France’s magnificent Atlantic coastline, where maritime traditions, charming islands, outstanding cuisine, and world-renowned sailing events come together.
Our journey begins in Rouen, just as the final ships depart following the spectacular Armada Rouen, France’s largest gathering of tall ships. As some Armada guests will still be on board during the first part of the passage, we will travel by coach from Rouen and join the ship halfway down the Seine. From there, we continue under sail towards the open sea before setting course south along the Atlantic coast to Bordeaux, where another maritime highlight awaits: the start of The Tall Ships Races.
Along the way, we visit some of the most beautiful islands and coastal towns France has to offer. We sail past the Channel Islands, drop anchor off Île d’Oléron and Île de Ré, and call at the historic port of La Rochelle, where a lively maritime festival takes place during our visit. Our voyage concludes in Bordeaux, where the city comes alive with the famous Bordeaux Fête le Vin, held alongside the festivities surrounding the departure of The Tall Ships Races.
This voyage strikes the perfect balance between a relaxed sailing holiday and an active sailing adventure. To cover the distance, we will occasionally sail through the night, while still allowing plenty of time to explore picturesque harbours, islands, and coastal towns ashore.
What can you expect?
From Armada Rouen to The Tall Ships Races. Rarely are two major maritime events connected as seamlessly as they are on this voyage. We depart immediately after the closing of Armada Rouen and arrive in Bordeaux as preparations for the start of The Tall Ships Races are in full swing during Bordeaux Fête le Vin. It is a unique opportunity to experience two of Europe’s most celebrated maritime events in a single voyage.
Island hopping along the French Atlantic coast. Our route takes us past a collection of remarkable islands, each with its own distinct character. From the rugged coastlines of Guernsey and Jersey to the sun-drenched beaches and charming villages of Île d’Oléron and Île de Ré, every stop offers something different. Whenever conditions permit, we will go ashore to explore these beautiful destinations.
La Rochelle and its maritime heritage. One of the highlights of the voyage is our visit to La Rochelle. This historic harbour city is widely regarded as one of France’s finest maritime destinations. During our stay, the city hosts a maritime festival, filling its quays with traditional vessels, maritime heritage, and a lively nautical atmosphere.
The flavours of France’s Atlantic coast. This voyage is equally rewarding for lovers of French cuisine. Along the route we encounter renowned oyster-growing regions, traditional fishing ports, and bustling local markets. Fresh seafood, regional wines, and the relaxed pace of French coastal life combine to create a memorable culinary experience.
Active participation under sail. The distances covered make this a genuine sailing voyage. Guests are encouraged to take an active role on board by steering the ship, assisting with navigation, handling the sails, and standing watch — including during overnight passages. No previous sailing experience is required; our professional crew will guide you every step of the way.
Time to relax. There is, of course, plenty of opportunity to simply enjoy life at sea. Find your favourite spot on deck, admire the ever-changing coastline, and soak up the unique atmosphere that develops during a longer voyage under sail.
Possible itinerary
Our exact route will always depend on the wind, weather, and tides, but may include: Rouen, Honfleur, Guernsey, Jersey, Île d’Yeu, Île d’Oléron, La Rochelle, Île de Ré, Royan up to Bordeaux. The wind, weather, and tides ultimately determine where we sail. It is precisely this flexibility that makes every voyage unique.
Why choose this voyage?
Two major maritime events in one unforgettable journey. Sail from the closing celebrations of Armada Rouen to the excitement surrounding the start of The Tall Ships Races in Bordeaux.
Discover France’s most beautiful islands. Explore the unique character of the Channel Islands and the idyllic Atlantic islands along France’s west coast.
Maritime heritage and exceptional cuisine. Enjoy historic harbour towns, regional delicacies, outstanding wines, and the warm hospitality for which France is renowned.
The perfect balance between active sailing and relaxation. This voyage covers more sea miles than a traditional sailing holiday while offering more opportunities ashore than one of our fully active sailing voyages.
Full board throughout the voyage. Delicious meals are prepared on board every day, while there are plenty of opportunities ashore to sample local specialities.
Suitable for both novice and experienced sailors. Whether you are stepping aboard a tall ship for the very first time or already have experience on longer offshore passages, this voyage offers an enjoyable and rewarding challenge for every level.
Safety always comes first. Our experienced professional crew will ensure that you can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable voyage along one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines.
Read our travel preparation guide carefully to ensure you are fully prepared for your voyage.
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