France Atlantique

Welcome to the Atlantic Coast of France

Derek Barnard of Yacht Tangaroa kept in the Viliaine is our Chapter Captain.

We have just one or two events a year, but aim to keep members up to date with useful information regarding access to the wonderful ports and rivers in our area.

As things get back together and we journey to France to check our boats, Alan King of ‘Anadyr’ suggests an end of season ‘bash’ at La Roche Bernard and a cruise up the River Vilaine to Rieux and back. An outline of the mini cruise is below and Alan would be grateful if you could email him with your intentions so that the appropriate Capitaineries and Restaurants can be warned, perhaps booked. Alan advises this could be one of his last cruises as he reaches an older age, so let us make it happen for him.

Sorry but this event was CANCELLED

Safe sailing

Events Proposed for 2021

Events for 2025
June 3rd – 5th.Loctudy 25
August 15thArzal Fest Noz

Tips for cruising the France Atlantique

Free bus services– many of the Islands and some cities offer a free bus service, allowing visitors to travel within the locality without charge?  Where several circuits are on offer, (eg Ile de Noirmoutier), you can hop from one circuit to the next.  These services are usually available during July and August.  Ask at the Tourist Information Centre as these free services can prove very useful when ‘marina-bound’, due to inclement weather etc.

SNCF travel– Stuck in Les Sables, or La Rochelle? then visit the local railway station – last year there were some excellent offers available for travelling within the Region.

Arzal Lock – boats entering the Vilaine are always given priority so the Lock times shown relate to the opening of the lock.  Boats leaving the Vilaine usually enter the lock 15 to 20 minutes past the times advertised.

Arzal – Camoel Marina – new pontoons have been added to the Camoel side.  If visiting this marina then request a berth on the Camoel side where it is more sheltered and quiet.

If you have any advice/tips on cruising the Morbihan, Loire Atlantique, Vendee and Charente areas then let your Captain know by emailing France.atlantique@moodyowners.org.  Also, of any events that may be of interest.

Have a great sailing season and hopefully will see you on the water.

Derek Barnard

Captain France Atlantique Chapter