Discover the captivating bay of La Rochelle on a thrilling 3-hour sailing adventure. Departing from the historic old port, you’ll explore the region’s picturesque coastline and monuments aboard the maxi-sailboat Columbus. Enjoy the invigorating feel of the wind and sea, chat with the knowledgeable crew, and enjoy panoramic views of the natural beauty. This unique and memorable sailing experience offers insights into the local history and environment, making it an ideal activity for families, groups, and solo travelers of all ages. But the true magic lies in what you’ll encounter on the open waters – a journey that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In La Rochelle.

Key Points

La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise - Key Points

  • Offers a 3-hour maxi-sailboat cruise departing from La Rochelle’s historic old port, allowing visitors to admire the picturesque bay and its monuments.
  • Provides panoramic views of the captivating coastline and an invigorating feel of the wind and the sea, with insights from knowledgeable crew.
  • Sails on the 18-meter monohull sailboat ‘Columbus’, originally built for ocean racing and later converted into an expedition sailboat.
  • Includes safety equipment, allows bringing own snacks and drinks, and keeps the price affordable for a customizable sailing experience.
  • Suitable for all traveler types, including families, groups, and solo travelers, and caters to all ages and interests.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Cruise Details

La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise - Cruise Details

The cruise offers a 3-hour sailing experience departing from La Rochelle’s historic old port, where guests embark on the maxi-sailboat Columbus to navigate between the nearby islands and coastline, admiring the picturesque bay and its monuments along the way.

This immersive journey allows travelers to relax and enjoy the feel of the wind and the sea while chatting with the knowledgeable crew, who’ll share insights about the Columbus and the local history.

The 18-meter monohull sailboat was originally built in La Rochelle for ocean racing before being transformed into an expedition vessel for environmental causes. Safety equipment is provided, though food, drinks, and hotel transfers aren’t included.

Highlights

La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise - Highlights

Travelers can admire panoramic views of the captivating coastline during this sailing cruise. Guests will relax and enjoy the invigorating feel of the wind and the sea as they sail through the picturesque bay.

Cruisers can also chat with the knowledgeable crew to learn more about the Columbus and the local history of the Pertuis sites they’ll pass by.

This sailing adventure offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty of La Rochelle’s islands and coastline. Whether it’s marveling at the stunning vistas or gaining insights into the local maritime heritage, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience for all travelers.

About the Sailboat

La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise - About the Sailboat

In an article titled ‘La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘About the Sailboat’.

The 18-meter monohull sailboat Columbus was originally built in La Rochelle for ocean racing, before being transformed into an expedition sailboat for environmental causes. Now, it’s used to raise awareness among the public.

The Columbus boasts several impressive features:

  • It was originally built for ocean racing
  • It was later converted into an expedition sailboat
  • It’s now used to educate the public on environmental issues
  • It provides a unique and memorable sailing experience for visitors

The sailboat’s rich history and current purpose make it a captivating vessel to experience during the 3-hour cruise around La Rochelle’s picturesque coastline and islands.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Aside from the impressive sailboat itself, the cruise package includes essential safety equipment, but excludes food, drinks (beyond water), and transportation to/from the meeting point.

While the cruise doesn’t provide meals or beverages, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the 3-hour voyage.

The meeting point is at the Kapalouest pontoon in front of the old port, so you’ll need to make your own way there.

However, the lack of inclusions keeps the price affordable and allows you to customize your experience.

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Important Information

La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise - Important Information

The activity is non-refundable, so participants should ensure their schedule allows for the full 3-hour cruise.

Rain or shine, the sailboat departs from the Kapalouest pontoon in front of the old port, with a possible 30-60 minute variation in departure time due to tides. Travelers can meet the crew at the designated meeting point, as hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included.

This sailing cruise is suitable for all traveler types, offering a chance to:

  • Admire panoramic views of the coastline
  • Relax and enjoy the feel of the wind and the sea
  • Chat with the crew to learn about the Columbus and local history
  • Pass the famous Pertuis sites

Travelers should come prepared for an enjoyable and informative sailing experience, rain or shine.

Meeting Point

La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise - Meeting Point

Participants meet the crew at the Kapalouest pontoon in front of the old port, as hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included. This convenient meeting point allows you to easily find the maxi-sailboat Columbus and board the vessel.

Situated directly in the heart of La Rochelle’s historic harbor, the Kapalouest pontoon offers easy access to the cruise departure point.

Be sure to arrive on time, as the cruise departs rain or shine, with a possible 30-60 minute variation in departure due to tidal conditions.

The crew will be there to greet you and provide any necessary instructions before setting sail on your 3-hour sailing adventure along the beautiful French coastline.

Duration and Timing

La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise - Duration and Timing

Typically, the 3-hour sailing cruise departs from La Rochelle’s old port, with a possible 30-60 minute variation in departure time due to tidal conditions.

The cruise operates rain or shine, allowing visitors to admire panoramic views of the coastline, relax, and enjoy the feel of the wind and the sea.

Some key highlights of the sailing experience include:

  • Embark on the majestic 18-meter maxi-sailboat, the Columbus
  • Navigate between the islands and coastline, passing the famous Pertuis sites
  • Chat with the knowledgeable crew to learn about the sailboat’s history and local landmarks
  • Soak in the tranquility of the bay and its monuments

Activity Suitability

This sailing cruise appeals to a wide range of traveler types, from families and groups of friends to solo adventurers. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing afternoon on the water or a chance to learn about nautical history, the 3-hour excursion aboard the Columbus sailboat has a lot to offer.

Traveler Type Suitability
Families Excellent
Groups Excellent
Solo Excellent
Seniors Good
Children Good

The sailboat’s design and amenities cater to all ages and interests. With safety equipment provided and the option to learn from the knowledgeable crew, this cruise is an ideal way to experience the beauty of La Rochelle’s coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions

La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise - Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Capacity of the Columbus Sailboat?

The Columbus sailboat has a capacity of 18 meters. As a monohull, it was originally built for ocean racing in La Rochelle but has since been transformed into an expedition sailboat for environmental causes.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?

There’s no minimum age requirement to participate in the sailing cruise. Children are welcome, though parents should supervise their little ones. The activity is suitable for all traveler types, including families.

Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations Available?

The cruise tour offers some accessibility accommodations, though visitors should contact the operator in advance to discuss their needs. Wheelchair users can typically board the sailboat with assistance, but the experience may not be fully accessible for all travelers.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on Board?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on board, but the cruise operator provides water only. Bringing snacks and beverages is allowed and can enhance the experience, though they’re not included in the tour price.

Are Pets Allowed on the Cruise?

Pets are generally not allowed on the sailing cruise. The cruise operator likely enforces this policy to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Travelers should check with the cruise company prior to booking if they have any special needs regarding pets.

Recap

This sailing adventure around La Rochelle’s picturesque coastline is an ideal way to take in the region’s natural beauty and history.

Aboard the maxi-sailboat Columbus, passengers can enjoy panoramic views, feel the invigorating wind and sea, and learn about the local environment from the knowledgeable crew.

Suitable for all ages, this unique and memorable experience offers a fantastic opportunity to discover the captivating bay of La Rochelle.

You can check if your dates are available here: