Sailing Course - In the heart of the 3 islands of Oléron, Ré and Aix - 2 days
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationCharente-Maritime / Oléron Island
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AgeFrom 18 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions15.95 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Experience a unique maritime immersion in the heart of the Pertuis Charentais during an intense weekend. Departing from La Rochelle , this coastal sailing trip takes you to discover the three jewels of the Atlantic: Oléron, Ré and Aix .
You will sail aboard a POGO 8.50 , a modern sailboat renowned for its speed and fun-to-ride experience. Under the expert guidance of your professional skipper , David, you will actively participate in life on board. Whether you are a novice or an experienced sailor, this course is designed to teach you the essentials of sailing maneuvers , sail trimming, and understanding weather patterns.
On Saturday, you'll sail around Île de Ré for an authentic overnight stop in Saint-Denis d'Oléron . On Sunday, after cruising along the rugged coastline, you'll pass by the famous Fort Boyard before exploring the waters around Île d'Aix. This shorter format is the ideal solution for those new to cruising or looking to hone their skills without time constraints. Between technical instruction and breathtaking views, enjoy a refreshing break where sharing and a passion for sailing are paramount.
The highlights
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Sailing in the heart of an exceptional marine territory between the islands of Oléron, Ré and Aix
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Aboard a POGO 8.5, a fast, seaworthy monohull sailboat with modern equipment
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Under the supervision of David, professional skipper, sailing instructor, 20 years of experience
Photos
Barbara - verified review - september 2026
Barbara - verified review - september 2026
Barbara - verified review - september 2026
Barbara - verified review - september 2026
Sport
Level
Sailing
The expert's opinion
This course is open to beginners as well as more experienced people.
In figures
Sailing
- Average duration/day: 8h
Management
French
English
This internship is supervised by David.
Oléronnais and sailor from generation to generation, professional skipper, passionate about offshore racing and multi-support regatta sailor, he is keen to pass on to you his unique knowledge of this marine territory as well as his know-how in terms of high-performance navigation.
With over 20 years of experience teaching sailing on multiple types of boats (cruising sailboats, dinghies, windsurfing boards), he will build your confidence and help you progress whether you are a beginner or already experienced.
His qualifications:
- State-certified sailing instructor
- Multi-platform coach
- Professional Skipper
- Holder of the BACPNV
- Deckhand
- Currently training to become a Captain 200
Program
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Navigation along the island of Ré
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Accommodation Sailing cruise ship
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Departing from La Rochelle, we'll sail along the coast of Île de Ré, passing under the bridge and circumnavigating the island depending on the weather. Then we'll cross the Pertuis Breton strait for a well-deserved overnight stop in Saint-Denis-d'Oléron.
On board, and throughout the course, you'll take the helm, participate in maneuvers, and discover the routing software we'll be using. David will also explain the influence of currents and local weather in the Pertuis Breton. He'll show you how to trim the sails, from basic to optimal settings. Right-of-way rules and safety at sea will also be covered. David will also explain the operation and usefulness of the onboard instruments (autopilot). Finally, you'll learn how to calculate tides and plot a position on a chart.
Day 1 -
Sailing along the island of Oléron and around the island of Aix
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Departure from Saint-Denis d'Oléron to travel along the east coast of the island of Oléron, see Fort Boyard and take a tour of the island of Aix (with possible anchoring depending on weather conditions) before returning to La Rochelle.
On board, and throughout the course, you'll take the helm, participate in maneuvers, and discover the routing software we'll be using. David will also explain the influence of currents and local weather in the Pertuis Breton. He'll show you how to trim the sails, from basic to optimal settings. Right-of-way rules and safety at sea will also be covered. David will also explain the operation and usefulness of the onboard instruments (autopilot). Finally, you'll learn how to calculate tides and plot a position on a chart.
Day 2
Note
The program is indicative and subject to David's discretion. It may be modified if weather conditions require it, and this at David's sole and absolute discretion.
Accommodation
During the stopover on Saturday evening in Saint Denis d'Oléron, you will be accommodated on board our sailboat.
You may have to share your cabin with another intern.
The Port of Saint Denis has quality sanitary facilities which will be made available to you (showers, toilets, sinks) during your stopover.
You will also find a bakery and a mini-market about a 5-minute walk away, as well as several bars and restaurants on the port.
Access
Departure from Saint Denis d'Oléron is also possible, on request and depending on availability (times, tides).
Possibility to sleep on the sailboat the night before departure (a contribution of €20 per person is requested).
The exact departure and arrival times are subject to the tides, and will be communicated to you once the booking is confirmed.
Go to the starting point
Parking available at the Port des Minimes
Price details
The price includes
- Stopover and shipping costs in Saint Denis on Saturday evening
- Theoretical and practical training over 2 days
- Supervised by David, a certified sailing instructor.
- Accommodation on board the sailboat on Saturday night
- Port fees, diesel fuel and mooring
- Passenger navigation insurance
The price does not include
- Meals on board (a collection box is available) - payable locally, approximately €10-15/day
- Transportation to the starting point
- Personal expenses during stopovers
- Personal equipment (shoes, raincoat, etc.)
- Extra activities
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, 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
- Life jackets & lanyards
Equipment to bring
Upon registration, we will send you a checklist of items to bring for your stay.
Clothing to bring
Upon registration, we will send you a checklist of items to bring for your stay.
They traveled with us
Barbara
- 29 ans
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
september 2026
In a couple
The David team
Based in Saint-Denis d'Oléron, our local expert's agency was co-founded in 2024 by David and Cynthia. David, a seasoned sailor and state-certified instructor, makes sailing accessible and safe, while Cynthia provides responsive and supportive logistical management. Specializing in sailing courses and cruises on an 8.5m Pogo, our local expert offers tailor-made itineraries to the Île d'Yeu or the Pertuis islands, prioritizing personalized instruction limited to four participants.
