• 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
  • 7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle
La Rochelle

7-day sailing course departing from La Rochelle

5/5 (4 reviews)
Réf : KKYTBB

In summary

  • Sports
    Sailing
  • Duration
    8 days
  • Level
    Intermediate

    Levels

    Sailing
    Beginner
    For those who have never sailed and wish to discover sailing over a short weekend.
    Intermediate
    For those wishing to complete their Level 1 "first tacks" certification and discover the various crew roles and basic maneuvers.
    Confirmed
    For those who have completed an FFV-affiliated sailing course within the past two years, OR for those who have sailed for more than five days on a sailboat over 8 meters in length within the past year, having participated in routine maneuvers and docking operations.
    Advanced
    For those who have already completed a 4- or 5-day advanced training course at an FFV-affiliated center. You have already sailed for more than 10 days on a sailboat over 8 meters in length, having participated in docking maneuvers, sail trimming, chart navigation, and course tracking (including dead reckoning). A coastal boating license and an FRR (radio certificate) are not mandatory but are recommended.
    Expert
    For those who have already completed an intermediate-level course (*stage évolution*) at an FFV-affiliated center. You have sailed for more than 20 days on a sailboat over 8 meters in length, having participated in: docking maneuvers, sail trimming, chart navigation, course tracking and dead reckoning, and watch-keeping. OR For those capable of single-handed maneuvers (reefing, tacking, gybing) or who have sailed as skipper (charter or private). The coastal license, CRR (Short Range Certificate), and offshore license are recommended for this level but are not mandatory.
  • Destination
    Charente-Maritime / La Rochelle
  • Age
    From 15 - 75 years
  • CO₂-Emissions
    96.05 kg CO2
  • Type of stay
    This group trip is perfect for travelers who want to experience a sporting adventure with other enthusiasts and be guided.
    Type of stay
    In a group
  • Languages
    French
    English

In a few words

Affiliated with the French Sailing Federation , the Open Sail school offers courses adapted to all levels , teaching you how to sail on modern sailboats , whether monohulls or multihulls . Supervised by state-certified instructors who are both skilled and experienced , you will progress quickly thanks to personalized advice tailored to your experience and goals.


These courses are an excellent stepping stone to becoming self-sufficient on board a sailboat , acquiring solid technical skills and a good understanding of modern equipment . Whether you're aiming to charter , buy a boat, join a cruising crew , or simply enjoy sailing safely , you'll be trained to achieve your ambitions.

The highlights

  • You're the captain on board!
  • Explore the islands of Yeu, Aix, Oléron, Ré, Noirmoutier, Fort Boyard, and Les Sables d'Olonne
  • Become self-sufficient on a sailboat
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Decathlon Travel Benefits
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Free cancellation more than 30 days in advance
Payment in 2 installments
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Photos

Sport

Level

Sailing

Intermediate

Levels

Sailing
Beginner
For those who have never sailed and wish to discover sailing over a short weekend.
Intermediate
For those wishing to complete their Level 1 "first tacks" certification and discover the various crew roles and basic maneuvers.
Confirmed
For those who have completed an FFV-affiliated sailing course within the past two years, OR for those who have sailed for more than five days on a sailboat over 8 meters in length within the past year, having participated in routine maneuvers and docking operations.
Advanced
For those who have already completed a 4- or 5-day advanced training course at an FFV-affiliated center. You have already sailed for more than 10 days on a sailboat over 8 meters in length, having participated in docking maneuvers, sail trimming, chart navigation, and course tracking (including dead reckoning). A coastal boating license and an FRR (radio certificate) are not mandatory but are recommended.
Expert
For those who have already completed an intermediate-level course (*stage évolution*) at an FFV-affiliated center. You have sailed for more than 20 days on a sailboat over 8 meters in length, having participated in: docking maneuvers, sail trimming, chart navigation, course tracking and dead reckoning, and watch-keeping. OR For those capable of single-handed maneuvers (reefing, tacking, gybing) or who have sailed as skipper (charter or private). The coastal license, CRR (Short Range Certificate), and offshore license are recommended for this level but are not mandatory.
For those wishing to complete their Level 1 "first tacks" certification and discover the various crew roles and basic maneuvers.

The expert's opinion

The sailing school is affiliated with the French Sailing Federation and is open to all levels: you will progress thanks to the advice of our state-certified, pedagogical and experienced instructors who will adapt their instructions according to the experience and objectives of each individual during our courses.

Management

During this stay, several supervisors will be present to guide and assist you, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the trip.
Band : 1 supervisor for 1 to 6 people
Languages ​​spoken:
French
English
César
César

Many years in the Cyclades and a few transatlantic crossings, State-certified sailing instructor and Yachtmaster Offshore.


With his ever-present and relaxed laugh, he puts all generations at ease. A big heart who fears nothing and will never leave anyone behind.

Eric
Eric

As a state-certified instructor (BEES 2°) and FFVoile-approved coach, I particularly enjoy leading courses at all levels and sharing my passion.



All passionate, competent and skilled instructors, they will help you progress so that you can enjoy yourself safely on the sailboat.

Management

Security

Automatic life jackets are provided. During the safety briefing, you will learn about the dedicated equipment and specific maneuvers.
Learn more about supervision

Program

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
  • map

    La Rochelle

    • Activity Sailing
    • Breakfast not included
    • Lunch not included
    • Dinner not included

    Trainees are welcomed at 4 p.m., a shopping list is made together, provisions are taken, and the first evening is spent on board.

    Day 1

Note

Stopovers may vary depending on weather conditions.

Accommodation

During this stay, you will sleep in several different accommodations.
🚢 Sailing cruise ship - Days 1 to 8
  • 🚢 Sailing cruise ship - Days 1 to 8
  • 🚢 Sailing cruise ship - Days 1 to 8
  • 🚢 Sailing cruise ship - Days 1 to 8
  • 🚢 Sailing cruise ship - Days 1 to 8
  • 🚢 Sailing cruise ship - Days 1 to 8
🚢 Sailing cruise ship - Days 1 to 8
🚢 Sailing cruise ship
  • 🚢 Sailing cruise ship
  • 🚢 Sailing cruise ship
🚢 Sailing cruise ship

Access

Departure
La Rochelle, France
Day 1 : 16h00
End of stay
La Rochelle, France
Day 8 - 09h00

You will receive a detailed map of the port with the precise location.

Go to the starting point

Access by train
Take the train toLa Rochelle

La Rochelle train station (3.2 km from the base – 8 minutes by car, 20 minutes on foot)

Access by plane
The nearest airport isLa Rochelle
Access by car
Travel to the place of stay with parking available

Enter the Minimes harbour master's office into your GPS

Would you like to travel on other dates?
Create an alert and we'll notify you by email if new departures are added.
Notify me of upcoming availability

Bonus: You can also let us know the date that interests you and we will do our best to offer it to you!

Price details

The price includes

  1. 7 nights in shared double cabins
  2. The provision of the boat
  3. The state-certified instructor
  4. Insurance
  5. The linens on board (fitted sheets + kitchen towels + pillowcases)
  6. Boat cleaning at the end of the course (you won't do the cleaning on the last day so the fun can continue until the end!)
  7. The FFVoile passport

The price does not include

  1. The onboard kitty (food, port fees and consumables such as fuel or gas): approximately €20/day - mandatory

Options

  1. Flex fare and insurance

Practical information

Specific formalities

Specifics

Before you leave, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website (https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/).


In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.


ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.

Equipment

Equipment provided on site

Open Sail provides automatic life jackets, undersheets, pillowcases, kitchen towels, and end-of-course housekeeping.

Equipment to bring

For this internship, we recommend that you bring the following equipment:

  1. Sunscreen with the highest SPF, sunglasses
  2. Lightweight sleeping bag
  3. Toiletries, small synthetic bath towel (which rolls up and dries quickly)
  4. Earplugs (the presence of a snorer on board can happen ;)
  5. Clothespins
  6. Swimsuit
  7. A headlamp + batteries
  8. Personal and labeled water bottle


Clothing to bring

  1. You mustn't get cold, so bring warm clothes.
  2. You need to be waterproof, so bring along marine clothing such as oilskins or windbreakers, top and bottom.
  3. Sailing gloves
  4. Closed shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes with white non-slip soles, or better yet, breathable boots)
  5. Thin fleece pull
  6. Cap (and possibly a fleece hat)


They traveled with us

Discover the authentic experiences of our travelers
5/5
(4 reviews)
At Decathlon, the reviews are reliable.
Reviews displayed in reverse chronological order
P

Pierre - 26 ans

september 2026 In a group
Translated from French
The trip went very well with a very professional and friendly skipper. I highly recommend it.
Published on 26/09/2026
DT
Decathlon Travel's response
Translated from French
Hello Pierre, Thank you so much for your message. We're delighted that your sailing course departing from La Rochelle went so well and that you had such a great experience at sea. See you soon for more nautical adventures! The Decathlon Travel Team
r

roger - 61 ans

august 2026 In a group
Translated from French
At 62, my first sailing course. Amazing, a real wow factor, exhilarating, a true adventure! The beauty of the places we visited, learning sailing techniques, the incredibly friendly atmosphere… Our captain, Olivier, jovial and highly competent, was attentive to each participant. Thank you to all the teams for this fabulous adventure!
Published on 19/08/2026
DT
Decathlon Travel's response
Translated from French
Hello Roger, What a pleasure to read your post! It's truly fantastic that you experienced such a "wow" moment with your very first sailing course, especially at 62! We can easily imagine the beauty of the places you visited and the incredibly friendly atmosphere you describe. This is the kind of adventure that motivates us to offer you even more sporting experiences, in complete safety, so that everyone can get started and learn with our expert instructors. We are delighted that our local team was able to support you with such enthusiasm and competence. See you soon on the water for more sailing adventures! The Decathlon Travel Team
B

Benjamin - 51 ans

may 2026 In a group
Translated from French
A superb experience aboard a Pogo 36. We were able to test all five sails and surf at 15 knots! The Pogo's responsiveness really helps fine-tune our sail trim and provides a fantastic feel at the helm. The program was tailored to each individual, with theory sessions between each sail. A huge thank you to our skipper for this course!
Published on 13/06/2026
DT
Decathlon Travel's response
Translated from French
Hi Benjamin, Thank you for your feedback. It's fantastic to read that you successfully completed your sailing course by testing all the sails and surfing at 15 knots! We're delighted that the program and the support from our local team were up to par for such an amazing experience. Keep sailing! The Decathlon Travel Team

They traveled with us

Discover the authentic experiences of our travelers
5/5
(4 reviews)
At Decathlon, the reviews are reliable.
Reviews displayed in reverse chronological order
P

Pierre - 26 ans

september 2026 In a group
Translated from French
The trip went very well with a very professional and friendly skipper. I highly recommend it.
Published on 26/09/2026
DT
Decathlon Travel's response
Translated from French
Hello Pierre, Thank you so much for your message. We're delighted that your sailing course departing from La Rochelle went so well and that you had such a great experience at sea. See you soon for more nautical adventures! The Decathlon Travel Team
r

roger - 61 ans

august 2026 In a group
Translated from French
At 62, my first sailing course. Amazing, a real wow factor, exhilarating, a true adventure! The beauty of the places we visited, learning sailing techniques, the incredibly friendly atmosphere… Our captain, Olivier, jovial and highly competent, was attentive to each participant. Thank you to all the teams for this fabulous adventure!
Published on 19/08/2026
DT
Decathlon Travel's response
Translated from French
Hello Roger, What a pleasure to read your post! It's truly fantastic that you experienced such a "wow" moment with your very first sailing course, especially at 62! We can easily imagine the beauty of the places you visited and the incredibly friendly atmosphere you describe. This is the kind of adventure that motivates us to offer you even more sporting experiences, in complete safety, so that everyone can get started and learn with our expert instructors. We are delighted that our local team was able to support you with such enthusiasm and competence. See you soon on the water for more sailing adventures! The Decathlon Travel Team
B

Benjamin - 51 ans

may 2026 In a group
Translated from French
A superb experience aboard a Pogo 36. We were able to test all five sails and surf at 15 knots! The Pogo's responsiveness really helps fine-tune our sail trim and provides a fantastic feel at the helm. The program was tailored to each individual, with theory sessions between each sail. A huge thank you to our skipper for this course!
Published on 13/06/2026
DT
Decathlon Travel's response
Translated from French
Hi Benjamin, Thank you for your feedback. It's fantastic to read that you successfully completed your sailing course by testing all the sails and surfing at 15 knots! We're delighted that the program and the support from our local team were up to par for such an amazing experience. Keep sailing! The Decathlon Travel Team
F

Florence - 56 ans

august 2025 In a couple
Translated from French
Excellent course with a very good instructor, a good team and weather conditions which allowed us to test all the sails.
Published on 07/09/2025
O
Decathlon Travel Partner

Our partner team

4.4/5 (12 reviews) • 15 stays
Specializing in high-end and dynamic sailing, our partner sailing school boasts a fleet of modern, high-performance sailboats that combine speed and cruising comfort. The school offers renowned vessels such as the Pogo and RM monohulls, and the TS, ORC, and NEEL multihulls. Operating in the Mediterranean and along the Atlantic coast, the agency also extends its operations to the Caribbean during the winter, providing exceptional sailing opportunities year-round.
Discover their team and their trips
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