french sailing yachts

French Sailboat Brands (Complete List)

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

August 30, 2022

France is home to many sailing organizations and individuals that want to experience life on the water. There are many excellent French sailboat brands too.

Whether it is a monohull or multi-hull, there are plenty of great choices to consider if you are looking for one. So what French sailboat brands come to mind?

You are likely familiar with popular French sailboat brands such as Beneteau, Jeanneau, and Fountaine Pajot. However, other French brands like Amel, Dufour, and Pogo definitely stand out. In addition, you cannot forget about RM, Bali, Excess, Garcia, Lagoon, Nautitech, Outremer, and Windelo.

Each brand has something a little bit different to offer to help create the best sailing experience. While no brand is absolutely perfect, some are making a strong case.

According to experts in the sailing realm, there are some French sailboat brands that happen to have the best sailboats in the world. While this is heavily debated and different for each individual, there are a few that rise above the rest.

Table of contents

‍ French Sailboat Brands to Check Out

Many French sailboat brands strive to be the best, so it will take some time to pick and choose the top of the line for your situation. Taking a look through all the brands is the only way to do it.

Many will pick one French sailboat brand over another due to a variety of factors. These include price, the reason for that particular sailboat, and comfort.

Beneteau and Excess

Beneteau is a one-of-a-kind sailboat brand that has found a way to combine racing and cruising without compromising comfort. They are one of the most popular sailboat brands in the world, offering many variations to fit sailors' needs.

For example, the Beneteau First 36 is an excellent full-scale sailboat that provides sailors an opportunity to get on the water safely and in style. Their stable hulls and light weight make them fast and reliable.

The brand has put together timeless classics for around 136 years now. From the living spaces, to the craftsmanship, you cannot go wrong with a Beneteau.

An elegant take on catamarans has been brought to customers by the Excess brand . They have one of the most intricate details with increased sailing area to provide sailors with the best possible experience.

Beneteau owns Excess, but both seem like independent versions of sailboats. Either way, both are excellent in their own categories.

Back in 1973, Alubat began production with their aluminum sailboats. They are the leading aluminum blue water sailboat brand and have served France proudly.

Since it is 100 percent aluminum, the hull is light and welded together. This creates a unique advantage compared to other fiberglass hulls that try to challenge weight.

In addition, Alubat uses lifting keels that allow you to take your adventure onto the beach. They have one of the best craftsmanship and put together a unique design.

Privilège/Kirie

The Kirie sailboat brand has been around since 1912 when they began building sailboats in Rue de la Forêt. While starting out on smaller sailboats, they eventually turned their production to racing boats.

Their most popular models include Feeling, which has a handful of variations based on size capabilities. In 1987, this boat received boat of the year honors.

You will likely have a hard time finding one of these boats now, especially since the brand was bought out by Privilège. This brand also makes top-of-the-line sailboats, but they are typically custom ordered and not mass produced.

Privilège has a few in their lineup that they make for the public. These are their Signature Series catamarans. You can expect quality builds and some of the best catamarans here.

Wauquiez is determined to help sailors get out on the water. Over the last 20 years, they have established excellent sailboats with modern interiors and elegant hulls.

They offer three popular models known as Pilot Saloon, Centurion, and Optio. Each one has plenty of room due to the design of the deck layout.

They are all catered to fit the needs of sailors that want to experience blue water sailing at different levels. Whether you want an easier sailing boat as a beginner or want a larger boat to race, Wauquiez offers them all.

One of the more prestigious families in French sailboats, Jeanneau offers one-of-a-kind sailboats to anyone. Their most popular sailboat is the classic Sun Odyssey 380.

Starting in the 1960s, Henry Jeanneau was looking to go fast on the water. He was able to develop a powerboat to compete in the 6-hour Paris race and won.

This particular design has everything down to the last detail to offer customers the best experience on the water. Just like many of their designs, you can count on efficiency, ease of use while sailing, and excellent sail area.

Fountaine Pajot

Fountaine Pajot is all about helping you create memories while in luxury. They are known for their beautiful catamarans, most notably the Astrea 42.

Their inverted bows are easy to spot, making them appealing to look at while you glide across the water. They even made sure the interior was as comfortable as possible, with some models having large windows below the deck.

Dating back to 1976, they have become a standard for French sailboat brands. Whether you want an entry-level catamaran or a luxury one, they have options to get you going.

Amel is one of those brands that has stood the test of time. They have put together one of the most comfortable, yet easy-to-sail boats that everyone can enjoy.

Over the last five decades, Amel has been able to set itself apart from other competitors. They have made themselves the standard when it comes to French sailboats. One of their best models to check out is the Amel 50, which is a powerful and comfortable ride.

They pride themselves on safety, having reliable hulls, and offering fun on the water. You can count on Amel to create a quality boat and honor the French.

Dufour has been in the business for over 60 years and provided sailors with some of the best sailing yachts. These boats have an assertiveness like no other and you can quickly tell them apart from the rest.

The newer Dufour 32 offers a classic spin on style and comfort, all while giving sailors peace of mind when it comes to handling. They even have an aft sunbathing area that can be adjusted in minutes if needed, which means they have thought of everything when it comes to comfort.

Dufour has partnered with Fountaine Pajot to be a part of the ODSeaLab to be more environmentally sound for bodies of water near France like the Atlantic Ocean. By 2030, they hope to have net carbon-neutral cruising sailboats.

Pogo Structures has been around since 1987 building cruising sailboats and racers. It was not until 2017 that they debuted their own line of powerboats using the same name. As for sailboats, they began building them in 2000.

While they are primarily still a shipyard producing close to 60 boats a year for other clients, they have reputable sailboats to look through over the years. These include the Pogo 40, Pogo 10.50, and Pogo 44.

They have served a lot of sailors throughout France, primarily in Combrit where they have their headquarters. You can likely find these sailing on the Atlantic coast.

RM Yachts is another quality shipyard in France that has doubled as the maker of many sailboats for other brands and created their own. They have focused on making their own for the last 20 years, with some custom accommodations along the way. They are known for their easy-to-handle boats that are not only comfortable but of high quality.

Back in 1989, they came up with their first design of the RM900. This was an epoxy-soaked plywood boat that had metal reinforcing the inside. Not too much has changed, other than having fiberglass sandwiched in between.

They continue to provide opportunities for sailors in La Rochelle that want to get on the water, as they produce roughly 50 yachts per year. RM Yachts can have either two keels or a lifting one, giving sailors customized options that best fit their needs.

Bali sailboats offer a little something for those that love catamarans. Not only are these some of the most beautiful catamarans on the market, they are also well built.

They have a partnership with Catana shipyard, located in France at Canet en Roussillon. This is one of the most famous shipyards out there, providing top-of-the-line yachts and catamarans.

This French sailing brand has listened to what customers want for luxury, which includes rigid cockpits, sunbathing areas, sliding windows, and plenty of room on the roof to lounge. It is no wonder this brand has quickly risen to the top since 2014.

Garcia yachts were started back in 1974 by two brothers, Jean-Louis and Jean-Pierre Garcia. Both were metalworkers and they played around with the idea of building steel boats.

They are an excellent shipyard in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France, where they have also built a line of their sailboats. These include the Exploration series and the Explocat.

Lagoon is another beautiful catamaran brand that thrived along the coast of France. They are easily recognizable for their racing sailboats.

From 1984, they quickly developed a huge following for their offshore catamarans. The Lagoon 55 and 47are two perfect examples of their craft.

They are easy to maneuver, fast, and have the awards to back up their performances in races over the years. They are part of the very popular Beneteau Group, so it is no surprise that they are widely recognized.

Nautitech is aiming to provide sailors the capability of traveling around the world in a catamaran. While you may not want to travel full-time on the water, these sailboats are meant to handle anything.

Previously owned by French sailboat brand Dufour, the company was sold in 2002 to Bruno Voisard. They eventually moved their operations to La Rochelle, France, and dominated the market for catamarans along the coast.

One of their more famous designs is the Nautitech 40 Open. It is an award-winning yacht that has an open concept and is easy to sail.

Outremer is another French sailboat brand that wants to help sailors live out their dreams of living on the water. Dating back to 1984, there are well over 400 of these catamarans sailing across the world.

Sailors love what Outremer has been able to do in their designs, especially the Outremer 55. It is a completely livable catamaran that is easy to operate even if you are short-handed. No matter which model you find yourself in, Outremer is an excellent French sailboat brand.

Windelo is a revolutionary French sailboat brand leading the market in clean sailboat energy. Their catamarans are equipped with electronic motors that are able to swap over to hydrogen generation.

These are definitely ahead of their time, especially when they produced the Windelo 50 Adventure. With all of those clean energy options, it does not comprise luxury or the performance of these catamarans.

These are also easy to handle even if you are short-handed. If you are wanting a catamaran that can handle anything and use clean energy, Windelo makes an excellent option.

History of Sailboats in France

France has a long history of boats due to its geographical location. Generations have developed models and tweaked designs to get it right.

Over time, it has grown into a large economic output with over 20 French sailboat brands or shipyards. These companies are responsible for employing over 20,000 people, so the economy of France depends on sailboats.

The oldest French sailboat brand is Beneteau, which dates back to 1884. At that time, Benjamin Beneteau started his boat building company with a focus to make sailboats and powerboats for French fishing fleets.

Throughout the years, demand for sailboats, racers, and cruisers all popped up with different French brands meeting those demands. Today, the marine industry is quite busy along the French coast.

Chantiers de l'Atlantique is one of the largest and most popular shipyards in the world. It is located in Saint-Nazaire, France, and they handle just about every boat you can think of.

What is it Like to Sail in France?

France is a unique location in the world that has a rich history. Sailing happens to be intertwined within that history, so naturally, you will see sailing as a common occurrence.

There is over 2,000 miles of coast to explore, meaning you have more than enough room to check things out. This alone makes it an interesting travel destination on the boat.

Sailing Options

France has four different bodies of water surrounding the country. These are the Atlantic Ocean, North Sea, English Channel, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Since there are many locations to sail, you can have fun no matter where you are. Rivers and canals are perfect for smaller sailboats. The Atlantic side offers many opportunities for larger boats.

Social Clubs

There are also over 400 boat clubs that have different options for sailors. Each one will have different levels of expertise and groups of people to communicate with.

Depending on which one you choose can help you save time and money on select membership perks. Some will let you dock for free or offer other incentives if you a member.

Perfect Weather

The climate in France is nowhere near as consistent as sailing in Florida year-round, but it is another factor that allows sailors to enjoy their time on the water. France typically has cool winters and mild to moderate summers.

While the temperatures do show up around freezing, the summers are not that hot. If you can handle the temperature ranges then sailing in France will be a breeze.

What is the Market Like for French Sailboat Brands?

Since sailboats are a symbol of luxury in France, many are proud to own one that can afford it. The sailboats you will likely see are typically all made in Poland or France.

Depending on the brand and size, the prices can range between $14,000 all the way to $16 million, if not more. For mega yachts, these are well above $40 million.

The average selling price for French boats comes in around $240,000 according to Yacht World for used and new French sailboats. The most common brands that were researched were Beneteau, Jeanneau, and Sunseeker.

It is important to know how much a particular sailboat is worth before committing to buying it. Check the brand you have in mind and find out all price points based on age, condition, and location so that you can determine the best deal possible.

Why are French Sailboat Brands Popular?

The French had a passion to follow their dreams and design something that they loved. While this sounds like a familiar story for most successful brands, it is a little bit different in France.

Since the competition is so tough, you have to be able to make top-quality sailboats in order to survive. If your product is lacking in any way, you will be out of business quickly.

Some French sailboat brands have a generation or two of the family business under their belt, while others are new to the game. Either way, you still have to be able to impress the customer, which many have done so.

In fact, if you were to ask a sailor what their top five favorite sailboat brands are, they will likely choose a French one somewhere on that list. The most popular one so far is still Beneteau, which also happens to be the most common French sailboat out there. The next in line is Amel, which is up for a bit of a debate.

How to Buy a French Sailboat?

If you are interested in buying a French sailboat from one of the brands mentioned, there are some variables in play that you need to be aware of. While many of these brands are popular, they may not be available to you depending on your location.

In addition, some sailboat brands only make so many models per year and it might be difficult to obtain a particular one. If you do your research ahead of time, it could save you a lot of steps in trying to track one of them down.

Depending on where you are currently at, buying a French sailboat is going to be tricky. If you are in the United States, you will either need to find a dealer that can ship one to you there or buy a used one already in a marina.

There are some locations that have a market for French sailboats. It might be beneficial to make phone calls first or check online before just showing up.

Budget Friendly

Just like any major purchase, you need to make sure you have the correct amount of funds available to you. This means getting a loan set up in advance, saving more money, or selling something to help fund this purchase.

French sailboat brands do not typically cost more than other sailboats. However, the brand and size of the boat will make a huge difference.

You have to ask yourself if having 10 or 15 feet more is worth the extra thousands of dollars. If you can go smaller, this would also save you money.

Straight from the Source

If you find a French sailboat brand that you like, you could always try to purchase one online. By visiting their website, you can check out the next steps in the buying process.

They could help you in locating a dealer or find a way to ship it to you. This could save you time and money if they are able to work out a deal.

What to Look for in a French Sailboat?

Looking for a French sailboat is just like looking for another sailboat brand, unless this is your first time. You need to make sure you understand your sailing goal first before buying one too soon.

Sailing goals include your purpose of sailing, how much you want to spend, and how long you plan to do it. If you can confidently answer those questions, then you are on the right path to what a good French sailboat brand is.

If you are aiming for comfort, you need to see if it can accommodate what you have in store. You need to find out if it has room for guests if you can live on it full time or the extra features that separate it from the rest.

The living space and other features make a huge difference for boats that aim for comfort and simplicity. You need to find one that does not compromise comfort for performance.

Monohulls have the capability of righting back up after the motion swings back and forth. Catamarans, or multihulls, have more stability and it will be a smoother ride.

If you plan on using your French sailboat for quite some time, you want to make sure you have the safest option of all. Both sailboat types have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is up to you to decide which to favor.

Ease of Use

Do you want a sailboat that comes equipped with everything you need to sail full time? What about one that is easy to handle by yourself or just two people?

These are basic questions to ask yourself, but you must do the research thoroughly before buying. Staying ahead of the game when looking for French sailboats will help you out in the long run.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Top 15 French Sailboats (and Catamarans) for 2022

France is undoubtedly one of the homelands of sailing. Monohull or multihull, every year the French shipyards present models that are successful all over the world. This is why we decided to select our top 15 French sailboats (and catamarans) for 2022; we choose them between the new ones and the slightly older ones. And you? What’s your favorite model?

Top 15 French sailboats for 2022: monohulls

Allures 51.9.

The Allures 51.9 innovates with its full-beam aft owner’s cabin. This model disrupts the codes of the yard also outside with its cockpit of 6 meters long with sunbath and swim platform for comfort; the navigation space can be protected by a hardtop to navigate in any security. The boat has a length of 51.9 feet (15.8 meters) and a beam (width) of 15.4 feet (4.7 meters). It is equipped with a fixed keel and a composite hull, which provides good stability and seaworthiness. The Allures 51.9 is available in a variety of configurations, including a three-cabin layout with a spacious owner’s cabin and two guest cabins, or a two-cabin layout with a larger owner’s cabin and a smaller guest cabin. It is also equipped with a well-equipped galley, a large saloon, and a navigation station. The boat is designed to be comfortable and easy to handle, with a simple sail plan and a self-tacking jib. The Allures 51.9 is a popular choice for sailors looking for a high-quality, reliable, and seaworthy yacht for extended cruising. Allures official website .

With this 15-meter unit , the La Rochelle shipyard opens the Amel concept to a new category of clients, thanks to more accessible dimensions. While they are not abandoning the emblematic ketch design of the La Rochelle shipyard, Amel has chosen the sloop for this unit. However, this is not a new format as such, as a number of sloops have already left the shipyard in the past. Among the innovations on this new model, the choice of a straight, powerful bow is a break from the shipyard’s habits. The waterline is extended to improve performance, making the front part of the boat more spacious. The addition of a bowsprit makes it possible to tack an additional sail such as an asymmetric spinnaker or a code-0. Amel official website .

Beneteau First 36

The Beneteau First 36 has a mission to bridge the gap between high-tech development in the world of racing and mainstream racer-cruisers. To be specific, even the standard version of First 36 will fully plane in a moderate breeze. Positioning six winches, steering wheels, and other deck gear was thoroughly tested on several mock-ups and a full-scale testbed sailboat to enable the sailing experience promised on the previous page.

Details like an offshore hatch on the foredeck or removable cockpit benches show the priority of sailing functionality over style used throughout the design process. Standard aluminium rig and cast iron keel were chosen to keep the boat accessible. Yet, Sam Manuard brought his experience and focused on perfecting the shape and design of these two key ingredients for a great sailing experience. The draft of 2,25 m was chosen as a compromise between performance and ease of use.  Beneteau official website .

The new Dufour 32, designed by  Umberto Felci,  has been developed in the same spirit as all the  latest models  in the Dufour range: it’s a sporty, innovative yacht that is easy to handle, both with a crew and single-handed. All the spaces have been completely redesigned to create a multitude of playful and intelligent uses. For the first time on a 32-foot  sailboat , you can now enjoy an aft sunbathing area … sheltered by a fabric shade that can be adjusted in moments. The inflatable and removable aft door of the cockpit folds down to complete this large friendly space. Dufour official website.

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 380

Designed by naval architect Marc Lombard with interior styling by Piaton Bercault, the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 380 complete with the award-winning walk-around deck, follows the same design trend of its predecessors the Sun Odyssey 410, 440, and 490. On the interior, while the design features the hallmarks of this line, careful consideration was given to the perception of space and the simplification of lines, with the objective of creating sensations of peace and calm. Jeanneau official website .

For this fast cruising yacht , the shipyard has once again entrusted the Finot-Conq naval architecture firm to apply the very successful design of the Pogo 36 to a larger model. As for the hull, the Pogo 44 features a wide, chine hull, which guarantees high performance in planning and comfort when sailing at all speeds. The bow has a large volume, which is reminiscent of the Pogo 3. The keel of the Pogo 44, still made with a vacuum infused Monolithic Fiberglass veil and a lead ballast, receives the same hydraulic system as the Pogo 12.50 or Pogo 50. Pogo official website .

The French yard is well known not only among ocean sailors but also to those who love short-handed sailing and are looking for seaworthy and easily driven boats, both safe and comfortable. This last aspect is where Fora Marine has made great progress in the last few years, shedding some of the spartan image that characterized their products for many years.

What has not changed, and what is still the RM range’s defining characteristic, is the twin-chined hull, made of Okumé plywood impregnated with epoxy resin (the deck is in fiberglass sandwich). Below the hull, the yard offers two options, a single deep keel or double shoal draft keels. The RM are designed by Marc Lombard , probably one of the architects most able to transform the fashionable chine into an important element in cruising design. A chined hull, when properly drawn, gives both better hull shape and interior volumes. RM Yachts official website .

Top 15 French sailboats for 2022: catamarans

The new  Bali  4.4 offers interesting living spaces, both inside and outside. With an optimized sail plan, sailing should gain in performance. The French shipyard is constantly developing its range and, after the 5.4, the fleet’s flagship, and the recent 4.2 and 4.6, the Bali 4.4 joins this renewed family. The Bali 4.4 replaces the 4.3 and 4.5 from the Bali catamaran range. With the same origins (designer Olivier Poncin, architect Xavier Fay and Lasta Design for the interiors) the Bali 4.4 has the DNA of the last models with slender bows, a silhouette lightened by the presence of long hull portholes and vast living spaces. The latter are divided between the spacious rigid forward cockpit between the two hulls, the flying bridge with its saloon and solarium, and finally the tilt-and-turn door joining together the cockpit and saloon. Bali official website .

Excess 15 (bluewater sailing configuration)

The  bluewater  sailing configuration of the  Excess  15 consists of twin  Deep Blue  50 kW electric saildrives in cooperation with ZF, two Deep Blue high-capacity lithium-ion BMW i3 batteries, and a full energy management system for harvesting green energy and charging the boat’s batteries while underway. On the yacht’s long test sail, the hydro generation system easily provided enough electricity to power one hundred percent of the onboard hotel loads at a cruising speed of seven to eight knots. Adding solar photovoltaics, planned for phase two of the Excess 15 with Deep Blue Hybrid project , will extend the system’s range and provide even more hybrid power and comfort on board. Excess Catamarans official website .

Fountaine Pajot Isla 40

The 12m Isla 40 embodies the spirit of French yard  Fountaine Pajot  and is distinguished by invigorating lines. The catamaran features inverted bows and a particular saloon where the chart table is accessible from the entrance. Her performance is complemented by optimal liveability with the option of three or four double cabins plus the possibility of a skipper’s cabin if required. Olivier Racoupeau Yacht Design , in collaboration with the engineers at Fountaine Pajot, has designed this new model, taking inspiration from the strengths of the other models in the range, and giving this 40-foot catamaran even more space and storage. Fountaine Pajot official website .

Garcia Explocat 52

The Garcia Explocat 52 is custom made with aluminum hulls and structures and fiberglass composite deck roofs. Aluminum shipbuilding has been Garcia’s strength for over 40 years. In Normandy (France), the Garcia shipyard has built more than 300 monohulls, catamarans, and trawlers up to 102 feet in length. Garcia Explocat 52 is specially designed for owners who want to walk in high latitudes and / or in the tropics. In addition to the three versions offered, the aluminum structure allows the yard to customize the yacht to meet all the expectations of the owner. Available in 3 or 4 cabin versions, each Explocat 52 is uniquely adapted to fit your cruising dreams. Garcia Yachts official website .

With nearly 6,000 units produced since the French shipyard began in 1987, Lagoon remains by far the world leader in the multihull market. To celebrate this international success, the shipyard launched last year the Lagoon 55. Designed by the VPLP team on the naval architecture side, this 16.56-meter long and 9-meter wide multihull was designed by Patrick le Quément for the exterior and Nauta Design for the interior. This 55’ model is equipped with an extra-large 25 m2 (269 sq ft) cockpit, including a large dining area; two large loungers at the stern, a comfortable deck chair in the shade of the roof; as well as a bar area perfectly equipped to ensure comfort on board.  Lagoon official website .

Nautitech 40 Open

The redesigned roof enhances the streamlined silhouette and “Open Concept” of this award-winning yacht. The remodeled structure with large windows has optimized the helmsman’s 360-degree view from both helm stations. A skylight window in the cockpit roof provides the helmsman a clear view of the mainsail’s trim. The lounge area with a U-shaped sofa can now be found on the port side. And for those who don’t want to lose touch with the office on long trips, a desk can be included in the lounge area, if so desired. Nautitech official website .

Outremer 55

The Outremer 55, a liveaboard catamaran, is easy to maneuver, whether short-handed or even solo. The Outremer 55 features twin helms but they can be switched from on deck in a new double helm seat with full outdoor visibility for fun sailing, or switched down into the cockpit for fully protected sailing in bad conditions. The Outremer’s design team from VPLP have used CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) to reduce drag ad forward resistance, while allowing for higher carrying capacity hen blue water cruising. At just 13.5t and combined sail area of 172 sm (Mainsail & Genoa) sailing in light winds will be a joy, but if needed the twin 60hp diesel motors are ready to engage. Outremer official website .

Windelo 50 Adventure

Designed in partnership with the architects Christophe Barreau and Frédéric Neuman, this fast blue-water cruising catamaran features an electric propulsion system that includes great hydro-generation facilities, solar panels, and the possibility to work under generator when it’s a necessity. With the development of an eco-composite in basalt fiber and PET foam, this is definitely an eco-friendly boat. Behind the mast, the forward cockpit has two helm stations protected from the wind and spray, a good view of the sails and the bows, and all the running rigging at hand. At anchor, the cockpit can be well protected from the elements and opens up to the stern. The self-tacking facilitates maneuvers also with limited crew; the lifting daggerboards are placed at the center of the hull to optimize their hydrodynamic performance. Windelo official website .

So, this is the selection of our top 15 French sailboats (and catamarans) for 2022. And you? What’s your favorite model?

Five Best Places Where To Sail At Least One Time In Your Life

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Sailing Yachts Dufour

Dufour yachts dna.

Constantly looking to the future, Dufour as a boat Manufacturer , designs each new model to provide pleasure and feel in complete serenity, whatever your cruising project and however you use your yacht. For over 60 years, we have been designing and building innovative, high-performance sailing boats . Marked by an assertive character and an identity recognisable among the crowd, Dufour yachts suit your desires and your boating programme to offer you amazing and comfortable sailing experiences and the pride of owning an elegant and safe yacht from an emblematic brand…

Our range of sailing yachts

The Dufour range of sailing boats comprises 9 iconic models, designed to suit every sailing programme. For long-term family cruising, or enjoyable weekends along the coast, or for racing and pushing the experience of heeling to the max. For over 60 years, Dufour yachts has a boat manufacturer have demonstrated their adaptability and versatility through beautiful innovations.

Dufour 37 sailboat

Dufour 390 sailboat

Dufour 430 sailboat

Dufour 44 Sailboat

Dufour 470 sailboat

Dufour 530 sailboat

Dufour 56 sailboat

Dufour 61 Sailboat

Dufour Virtual marina

Just as if you were really there… Embark aboard the model of your choice from the Dufour sailing yacht range thanks to an immersive tour that begins on the pontoons of the new Dufour Virtual Marina, offering the most realistic visiting experience ever! Exterior views of the range, visits from the deck of the boats to the interior by choosing the Vintage and the version that suits you… Everything is brought together to offer you a complete and interactive opportunity to discover the range from the comfort of your own home…

Dufour Sailing boats experience

Owners of Dufour sailing boats are sailing all the seas of the world… Because their stories are our greatest pride and joy… Because these sailing stories are for us the best proof that the Dufour experience is both unique and shared… We invite you to discover, through real stories, Instagram photos or even from the Dufour community site, a glimpse of what life on board a Dufour Yacht is all about…

Environmental commitments

Dufour is committed to preserving the oceans and marine wildlife, and is launching with Fountaine Pajot, its own collaborative innovation platform #ODSeaLab . An accelerator of technological solutions whose goal is to transform production processes and the choice of materials, and mainly to implement innovations in renewable energy production , electricity storage and the electrification of propulsion and life on board..

News and Boat Shows

• All the news

Miami International Boat Show starts today!

Dufour nautic days online 2023, dufour 530, an incomparable 16-meter yacht.

• All the boat shows

Salon Nautique de La Ciotat

Dufour cup | marseille, palma international boat show, follow the dufour experience.

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Sailing Catamarans

Motor Yachts Catamarans

Dufour Yachts

• Commitments

History & Expertise

Team management

Sailing towards carbon neutrality

A global signature, heading to carbon-neutral cruising, catamarans, motor yachts & sailboats.

Enjoy extraordinary experiences and share precious moments aboard your Fountaine Pajot sailing catamaran…

Motor Yachts

Choose the refinement of a motor yacht, with the luxury of space and comfort… A new horizon of experiences is opening up before you…

Dufour Sailboats

Step aboard legendary sailing yachts, synonymous with fast cruising and pleasure at the helm… A unique line bearing the Dufour signature…

More than half a century of passion and innovation

Inspired by a passion for sailing and a love of the oceans, Fountaine Pajot has been combining vision, expertise and innovation to design the very best boats for over half a century.

08 Mar 2024

Alégria 67 – The Flagship Catamaran Star at the International Multihull Show – La Grande-Motte

How does Smart Electric technology work? Answer on video…

Smart Electric: a complete overview of this technology, its origins, how it works and its everyday benefits… #Broadcast

Tailor made solutions to acquire a flagship catamaran : charter management , customization, all the Ownership tips

How do you buy a flagship? What types of ownership are there? How do I get proper support? Find out all you need to know in this broadcast…

20 Feb 2024

A new way to experience Motor Yachts

What is the future of hydrogen in recreational boating?

Discover the challenges of implementing Hydrogen, thanks to our experts…

16 Feb 2024

The Thíra 80 nominated in the “Multiyacht” of the Year category by Multihulls World magazine

Isla 40 and Astrea 42, the perfect models for starting out in the world of catamarans?

Isla 40 and Astréa 42, find out all about these catamarans through two testimonials…

The Tanna 47, a multi-purpose boat that ticks all the boxes?

Tanna 47: a program to find out all about this model…

25 Jan 2024

A brand-new experience… Welcome to the new Fountaine Pajot sites!

15 Jan 2024

Exclusive Events | Which Motor Yachts to visit in 2024 ?

Posidonia seagrass beds, the blue lung of the Mediterranean sea? WWF explains us everything

07 Dec 2023

The aura 51 catamaran wins the 2024 boat of the year award

Stay connected for the latest Fountaine Pajot news

Follow the adventures of Fountaine Pajot Owners, discover the latest news and upcoming events, and take part in the development of the Boat of tomorrow!

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French yacht builders: the top 8 brands

Have you ever dreamed of cruising around the French coasts with a yacht? Read this blog post and discover the best French yacht brands.

French yacht

The French have a long and glorious history of crafting some of the world’s most beautiful, luxurious, and well-crafted yachts.

From the elegant, timeless lines of the Nautor’s Swan to the modern, stylish designs of Beneteau, the top 8 French yacht builders have earned a worldwide reputation for quality and craftsmanship.

For those looking for the best in comfort and style, these brands offer a wide range of models to suit every taste and budget.

Whether you’re looking for a classic sailing vessel, a modern powerboat, or a luxurious superyacht, French yacht builders have something to offer.

With their impressive attention to detail and commitment to quality, these brands guarantee that their yachts will provide years of enjoyment – and make a lasting impression on the open seas.

Nautor’s Swan – classic, timeless designs

Nautor’s Swan is one of the world’s leading yacht builders and the name behind some of the most famous yachts in history. A family-owned company based in France, Nautor’s Swan, has been crafting beautiful wooden yachts for more than 40 years.

Each of their yachts is built to order and made from the highest quality materials available. Their designs are timeless; classic yachts are described as “timeless elegance and style.”

Their custom-made yachts are built using the finest mahogany wood and feature a sleek profile and elegant lines. Their yachts are designed to be easily sailed by one or two people without compromising luxury.

Nautor’s Swan offers both sailing yachts and power yachts.

Beneteau – modern and stylish designs

Founded in 1968, Beneteau is one of the most popular French yacht builders, known for building high-performance, stylish and modern boats.

With over 60 years of experience in the marine industry, Beneteau is one of the top French brands for powerboats. Their yachts are designed to be easy to use and comfortable to sail, with simple controls and an intuitive layout.

Their yachts are made with an emphasis on style, design and comfort, with modern materials and innovative technology. Beneteau offers many models, from sailing yachts to powerboats and superyachts.

Their sailing yachts are designed for long-distance cruising and have a spacious, luxurious interiors and an elegant, timeless design. Their power yachts are designed for performance and provide speed and comfort for short- and long-distance sailing.

Sunseeker – performance and luxury

Sunseeker is one of the top yacht builders in the UK, with a French parent company based in Cherbourg. They are known for building high-performance and luxury yachts with a focus on comfort and ease of use.

Their yachts are designed to provide speed, comfort and performance and are built using the latest technology and materials. Their yachts are built to order, providing customers with a high level of customization.

Sunseeker offers various models with various designs and layouts to suit different tastes and budgets.

Jeanneau – value and quality

Founded in 1977, Jeanneau is a leading French yacht builder that focuses on building affordable and high-quality vessels. Their yachts are designed to be easy to use and maintain and provide a high level of comfort.

Jeanneau’s wide range of models includes sailing yachts, power yachts and catamarans, with various designs and layouts to suit different tastes and budgets.

Their yachts are built with a focus on quality and value for money, providing a lifetime of enjoyment for their owners.

Fountaine Pajot – catamarans and sailing yachts

Fountaine Pajot is a French yacht builder specializing in catamarans and sailing yachts. They are best known for their Pajot sailing yachts, designed to be both comfortable and fast.

Their yachts are built using high-quality materials, including carbon fiber and lightweight wood, to provide strength and durability. Fountaine Pajot offers various models, with various designs and layouts to suit a wide range of tastes and budgets.

CNB – bespoke, custom-made yachts

CNB is a unique French yacht builder that specializes in bespoke, custom-made yachts. They are renowned for their innovative designs, luxurious interiors and elegant styling.

Their yachts are built with the highest quality materials and provide a lifetime of enjoyment for their owners. CNB offers various models with various designs and layouts to suit different tastes and budgets.

They also provide custom-made services, allowing customers to design their yachts from scratch and use the latest technology and materials.

CNB Lagoon – innovative catamarans

CNB also builds catamarans, a hybrid between a sailing yacht and a powerboat. These hybrid vessels combine the best features of both types of boats, with the simplicity of a powerboat and the elegance of a sailing yacht.

They are designed for cruising and fishing, with a large deck, plenty of storage and a spacious and luxurious interior.

Astus – high-performance dinghies

Astart is a French yacht builder that specializes in high-performance dinghies. Their designs have been used in Olympic Games and world championships, and they have won several awards for design and performance.

Astus offers several models, each designed to be fast, light and durable. Their dinghies are built using carbon fiber and other high-tech materials, providing a fast and agile boat that is both durable and lightweight.

Conclusion – excellence and craftsmanship

Nautor’s Swan and Beneteau are the best French yacht builders known for their elegant, classic designs and attention to detail.

With Sunseeker, you can enjoy the comfort and performance of a high-quality powerboat, while Jeanneau provides a wide range of quality yachts, both sailing and power.

Fountaine Pajot is the best choice when you’re looking for a catamaran, while CNB and Astus are excellent for high-performance dinghies.

These are just some of the top French yacht builders with a history of excellence and craftsmanship that spans centuries.

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Our know-how: high-quality sailing yacht building

RM Yachts are “composite” as much as the best materials are carefully selected for each part of the boat:

• Plywood for the general structure
• Epoxy stratification for the assembly
• Iron for the keel
• Polyester sandwich for the roof
• And from now on epoxy sandwich for the planking above waterline (1180).

To better visualise our plywood sailboat construction technique, think about a wooden house, with concrete foundations, a roof with tiles and window frames made of aluminium.

RM monohull yachts, available from 30 to 45 feet – approximately 9 to 14 meters –, are in constant development to improve our performance level as well as the quality of our products.

Most of our highly skilled engineers have been with us for almost 20 years, so they clearly benefit from very valuable owners’ feedback when it comes to our sailing yacht building expertise.

First step:

The hull and its structure

For the structure of our sailboats, we use high quality plywood: CTBX, full Okumé, with Class-3 gluing. Thickness varies between 12 and 15mm, depending on the RM model.

The hull itself is in marine plywood, with panels of 15, 18 or 22mm depending on the parts and of course the RM model.

The laser-cut panels arrive at our French shipyard, in La Rochelle, ready to be assembled and glued.

The assemblage is done on a template mould, integrating the iron part which will support the keel(s).

It is done « upside-down » for a better holding and an easier access.

Gluing is done with a bi-component epoxy.

Then come the plankings, made of plywood too, (except for the RM1180, our 39-foot bluewater cruiser), which are mechanically held so that they fit with the hull shape.

SECOND STEP

Just before demoulding, we run an inspection of the bulkheads. Each of them being structural, they are stratified to the hull. We make sure the joints are neat and smooth.

The hull is then craned up, and the stratification finalised.

Please note that every single piece of plywood is coated with epoxy, so that it is watertight and contribute to the overall stiffness of the sailing boat.

The hull is now ready.

INTERIOR WORKS

The inside is painted in white before we start the following:

• Electricity
• Tank installation
• Engine & accessories installation (batteries)

Depending on the yacht model, some furniture is always installed at this stage before the access becomes tricky.

FOURTH STEP

Deck preparation and installation

When the deck arrives at the shipyard, we use plywood again for the counter-moulding, and install the anti-slip painting as well as some of the deck fitting.

What makes RM’s sailing yacht building technique special is that once the deck is positioned over the hull, we apply another layer of epoxy to stratify it to the hull. This junction becomes invisible, totally watertight, and highly contributes to the global stiffness of the yacht.

From this stage, one may consider the boat is just one piece (hull + deck).

HULL CUSTOMISATION

The colour of your dreams for your family or even solo liveaboard sailboat is the result of a succession of tasks.

Back to step one, we apply epoxy on the upside-down hull and sand it.

Now we can start with a primer, thick enough to ensure the smoothness.

A second primer, thinner this time, is then applied. It improves the touch & feel.

Another sanding is then made, before the last primer – ultra-thin polyurethane – is applied. This is the last layer before we can finally spray the lacquer – the one of your dream colour for your modern customised sailing yacht!

SIXTH AND LAST STEP

The final fittings

Once the yacht has reached this final stage, we install windows, deck fitting, some added carpentry and plumbing.

Last, we crane the yacht to install her rudders (mono- or twin-rudder) and keels – whether you opt for a fin, twin or lifting keel sailboat.

A truck will come and pick her up, and once she splashes at destination, mast and rigging will finalise the building process.

Keep in Touch' Restons en contact

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French Sailing Yacht Manufacturers of the past 100 Years!

Published by sail on march 18, 2023 march 18, 2023.

France is certainly the most prolific and important nation in terms of sailing, especially sailboats production.

Here is a list of French sailboat manufacturers that have been active over the past 100 years, along with a brief description of each company’s history and current status:

Jeanneau –

Founded in 1957, Jeanneau is a leading sailboat manufacturer that produces a wide range of sailboats, from small day boats to large cruising yachts. The company is based in Les Herbiers, France, and is part of the larger Beneteau Group.

Beneteau –

Founded in 1884, Beneteau is one of the oldest and most well-known sailboat manufacturers in the world. The company produces a wide range of sailboats, from small day boats to large cruising yachts, and is headquartered in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, France.

Dufour Yachts –

Founded in 1964, Dufour Yachts is a well-respected sailboat manufacturer that produces a range of sailboats, from small cruising boats to large racing yachts. The company is based in La Rochelle, France.

Fountaine Pajot –

Founded in 1976, Fountaine Pajot is a leading manufacturer of catamarans and other multi-hull sailboats. The company is based in La Rochelle, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 36 to 67 feet.

Archambault –

Founded in 1967, Archambault is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in racing yachts. The company is based in Dangé-Saint-Romain, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 20 to 43 feet.

Wauquiez –

Founded in 1965, Wauquiez is a sailboat manufacturer that produces a range of high-end cruising and racing yachts. The company is based in Neuville-en-Ferrain, France.

Bénéteau Group –

Founded in 1977, the Bénéteau Group is one of the largest sailboat manufacturers in the world, with a portfolio of brands that includes Bénéteau, Jeanneau, Lagoon, and other well-known names. The company is headquartered in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, France.

JPK Composites –

Founded in 1989, JPK Composites is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in offshore racing yachts. The company is based in Larmor-Plage, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 10 to 45 feet.

Alubat –

Founded in 1973, Alubat is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in aluminum-hulled boats. The company is based in Les Sables-d’Olonne, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 35 to 80 feet.

RM Yachts –

Founded in 1990, RM Yachts is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in high-performance cruising yachts. The company is based in La Rochelle, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 10 to 14 meters.

Amel –

Founded in 1968, Amel is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in blue-water cruising yachts. The company is based in La Rochelle, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 50 to 74 feet.

C&C Yachts –

Founded in 1971, C&C Yachts is a sailboat manufacturer that produces high-performance racing yachts. The company is based in La Trinité-sur-Mer, France.

CNB Yachts –

Founded in 1987, CNB Yachts is a sailboat manufacturer that produces luxury cruising yachts. The company is based in Bordeaux, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 60 to 130 feet.

Dehler Yachts –

Founded in 1963, Dehler Yachts is a sailboat manufacturer that produces high-performance cruising yachts. The company is based in La Rochelle, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 29 to 46 feet.

Etap Yachting –

Founded in 1970, Etap Yachting is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in unsinkable boats. The company is based in Ostend, Belgium, but has a production facility in France.

Garcia Yachts –

Founded in 1974, Garcia Yachts is a sailboat manufacturer that produces blue-water cruising yachts. The company is based in Condé-sur-Noireau, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 45 to 115 feet.

Hanse Yachts –

Founded in 1990, Hanse Yachts is a sailboat manufacturer that produces high-performance cruising yachts. The company is based in Greifswald, Germany, but has a production facility in France.

J Boats –

Founded in 1977, J Boats is a sailboat manufacturer that produces high-performance racing yachts. The company is based in Newport, Rhode Island, but has a production facility in France.

Lagoon –

Founded in 1984, Lagoon is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in catamarans. The company is part of the larger Bénéteau Group and is based in Bordeaux, France.

Océanis –

Founded in 1985, Océanis is a sailboat manufacturer that is part of the larger Bénéteau Group. The company produces a range of cruising yachts and is based in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, France.

Outremer Yachting –

Founded in 1984, Outremer Yachting is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in high-performance catamarans. The company is based in La Grande-Motte, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 45 to 55 feet.

Pogo Structures –

Founded in 1987, Pogo Structures is a sailboat manufacturer that produces high-performance racing yachts. The company is based in Combrit, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 30 to 50 feet.

Privilège Marine –

Founded in 1985, Privilège Marine is a sailboat manufacturer that specializes in luxury catamarans. The company is based in Les Sables-d’Olonne, France, and produces boats ranging in size from 50 to 75 feet.

Soubise Yachts –

Founded in 1987, Soubise Yachts is a sailboat manufacturer that produces high-performance racing yachts. The company is based in La Rochelle, France, and produces boats ranging

These are just a few of the many French sailboat manufacturers that have been active over the past 100 years. Each company has its own unique history, approach, and product line, and all of them have contributed to the rich and diverse world of sailing.

France is especially the land of multihulls, catamarans and trimarans.

Here is a list of French catamaran manufacturers:

• Lagoon Catamarans
• Fountaine Pajot
• Nautitech Catamarans
• Privilège Marine
• Catana Catamarans
• Sunreef Yachts
• Outremer Yachting
• Bali Catamarans
• Leopard Catamarans (part of the larger Robertson and Caine Group, with production facilities in France)
• Gemini Catamarans (part of the larger Performance Cruising Inc., with production facilities in France)
• Espace Catamarans
• Alibi Catamarans
• Infini Catamarans
• Corsair Marine (part of the larger Bavaria Group, with production facilities in France)
• Astus Boats
• McConaghy Boats (has a production facility in Cherbourg, France)
• Catathai Catamarans
• Nacra Sailing
• Dream Catamarans
• Yapluka Catamarans

Please note that some of these manufacturers may produce other types of boats in addition to catamarans.

To add more information to the above, please find more details on the most relevant catamaran yards of France.

Lagoon Catamarans –

Lagoon is one of the world’s largest catamaran manufacturers and a leader in the cruising catamaran market. Based in Bordeaux, Lagoon produces catamarans ranging in size from 40 to 78 feet.

Founded in 1976, Fountaine Pajot is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces a range of cruising catamarans. The company is based in La Rochelle and produces catamarans ranging in size from 37 to 67 feet.

Nautitech Catamarans –

Nautitech is a French catamaran manufacturer that specializes in high-performance cruising catamarans. The company is based in Rochefort and produces catamarans ranging in size from 40 to 54 feet.

Privilege Marine is a French catamaran manufacturer that specializes in luxury cruising catamarans. The company is based in Les Sables-d’Olonne and produces catamarans ranging in size from 50 to 75 feet.

Catana Catamarans –

Catana is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces high-performance cruising catamarans. The company is based in Canet-en-Roussillon and produces catamarans ranging in size from 42 to 70 feet.

Sunreef Yachts –

Sunreef is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces luxury custom catamarans. The company is based in Gdansk, Poland but has a production facility in La Rochelle, France.

Outremer is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces high-performance cruising catamarans. The company is based in La Grande-Motte and produces catamarans ranging in size from 45 to 55 feet.

Bali Catamarans –

Bali is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces innovative cruising catamarans. The company is based in Les Sables-d’Olonne and produces catamarans ranging in size from 40 to 55 feet.

Leopard Catamarans –

Leopard is a global catamaran manufacturer with production facilities in France, South Africa, and China. The company produces cruising catamarans ranging in size from 40 to 58 feet.

Gemini Catamarans –

Gemini is an American catamaran manufacturer with a production facility in France. The company produces cruising catamarans ranging in size from 34 to 105 feet.

Espace Catamarans –

Espace is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces cruising catamarans ranging in size from 37 to 58 feet. The company is based in La Rochelle.

Alibi Catamarans –

Alibi is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces high-performance cruising catamarans. The company is based in Les Sables-d’Olonne and produces catamarans ranging in size from 53 to 96 feet.

Infini Catamarans –

Infini is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces cruising catamarans ranging in size from 40 to 65 feet. The company is based in La Rochelle.

Corsair Marine –

Corsair is an American catamaran manufacturer with a production facility in France. The company produces racing and cruising catamarans ranging in size from 24 to 37 feet.

Astus Boats –

Astus is a French catamaran manufacturer that produces trimarans and catamarans ranging in size from 16 to 24 feet. The company is based in Quimper.

For a complete picture, please use our free searchable database here!

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Yachting Monthly

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Sailing the French canals: lessons learned

• Katy Stickland
• December 2, 2021

From buying a suitable yacht to negotiating 371 locks, three tunnels and travelling 1,400 miles from Fareham, Lizzy Bolan shares the highs and lows of navigating the French canals

After a harrowing first lock experience, Lizzy and Rob favoured a technique of tying off mid-cleat and motoring against it, whether against a ladder - or to the Rhone locks' easier floating bollards. Credit: Lizzy Bolan

After a fantastic holiday sailing to Cherbourg and Alderney, on our Gibsea 92, my husband Rob and I aspired to sail further afield. We had read about sailors voyaging through the French canals, into the Mediterranean , which sounded like a wonderful adventure, writes Lizzy Bolan .

The first step was to find a boat that we could comfortably live on.

After much research and viewing many different boats for sale, we began to favour the centre-cockpit design yachts, which have a lovely rear berth.

One bright, chilly Saturday in November 2015, whilst wandering a Hamble boatyard, we fell in love with Zircon , a Beneteau Oceanis 36CC.

The huge locks on the Rhône are 190m long by 12m wide. There was still plenty of room for Zircon behind this 110-m long cruise ship. Credit: Lizzy Bolan

We needed a boat that drew less than 1.8m to travel through the French canals.

The 36CC had a fin keel with a draught of 1.5 metres; shallow for the size of the boat.

We particularly liked the aft cabin, spacious galley and heads, walkaround layout, and big engine room.

‘I’m sure a reasonable offer would be considered,’ the broker advised.

Feeling very excited, we submitted an offer and to our absolute delight, it was accepted. We spent the next three years planning and preparing for our trip on the French canals.

Our upgrades included:

• Two 100W solar panels , mounted on bespoke davits that Rob made to hold our dinghy
• Four new 130Ah house batteries , battery monitor, and an inverter
• B&G Vulcan 9 chart plotter
• Forward facing sonar
• Transmit and receive AIS
• Memory foam mattress, which we cut to shape with an electric bread knife
• Wooden slats fitted under the mattress, to allow it to breathe
• 36-litre holding tank
• 20kg Rocna anchor , 30m of 10mm chain and a new windlass
• New standing rigging

Final preparations before entering the French canals

We both had our RYA Day Skipper and VHF qualifications, but we also needed to pass a CEVNI exam, (Code Européen des Voies de Navigation Interieure) which we took online – it’s like the inland waterways’ highway code.

We quit our jobs in May 2019, rented out our house, said our emotional goodbyes, and left Fareham on 1 June, bound for Haslar Marina – four miles away.

Lizzy’s Beneteau Oceanis 36CC, Zircon, crossing the Briare aqueduct. Credit: Lizzy Bolan

After all the manic last-minute planning and preparation, we needed a couple of days to relax, before setting off on our adventure of a lifetime.

We planned to enter the canals at Le Havre, and crossed the Channel to St Vaast, Normandy.

The 90-mile journey took us 16 hours.

From there, we sailed to Carentan, then Arromanches, where we spent a bumpy night at anchor , before sailing to Honfleur.

You need to purchase a Voies Navigables de France (VNF) licence to travel the French canals, even if you are not passing through any locks.

The price is subject to boat length, and daily, weekly, monthly or annual licences are available online. It cost us €137.46 per month.

On 18 June, we set off from Honfleur, eager to start our journey up the Seine to Rouen, where we had arranged to have our mast un-stepped.

We called Rouen Port Control, up river from Honfleur, to advise them of our passage, and estimated arrival time.

Mast un-stepping

The first section of the Seine is tidal, and it is recommended to travel to Rouen in one trip, as there is nowhere to stop on route.

The 62 miles took us 10 hours, at an average speed of six knots.

Rouen is the furthest you can take a yacht up the Seine, without un-stepping your mast.

Lizzy nicknamed these ‘pallet pontoons’ – when the pilot book says a marina, it doesn’t always mean an actual marina. Credit: Lizzy Bolan

After Rouen, the bridges are lower, and some routes have tunnels, so the maximum air draught for a boat to continue is 3.5 metres.

A trip up the Seine to Rouen is a fantastic way to experience the French inland waterways, without the hassle of removing your mast.

We had contacted Rouen Marina before leaving Fareham, regarding un-stepping our mast. On arrival, we discovered that they only provide and operate the crane.

The rest was down to us; including going up the mast to secure the crane strops, unbolting and removing standing rigging.

Crane hire and a month’s mast storage cost €223.

Lizzy Bolan discovered sailing aged 46 when she met her husband Rob. They quit their jobs and are currently cruising around the Greek Ionian islands. Credit: Lizzy Bolan

We arranged for our mast to be transported by lorry, from Rouen to Port Napoleon, near Marseille. This cost £1,348.

We didn’t realise that they don’t prepare the mast for transportation, or provide any protective packaging.

We managed to wrap it in some tarpaulin that we had onboard, and removed the masthead unit and spreaders.

Some people take their mast with them, and construct a wooden frame on their deck.

This saves money, but you run the risk of damage. We decided to pay for the lorry as we had heard a horror story about a boat spinning 180º in the first lock, damaging its mast as it scraped along the lock wall.

The first lock on our French canal journey

On 22 June, we left Rouen, excited to be on our way. It was 39km to the first lock in the Seine, at Amfreville.

This marked the last tidal section of the river. From there, we could enjoy the freedom of not having to consider tide times when passage planning.

The 203km route along the Lower Seine to Paris passes through six locks.

We were admiring the leafy green scenery when we noticed a large barge behind. We respectfully moved over so that it had more room to pass.

Lizzy dons gloves in a lock for dealing with some less-than-appealing securing points. Credit: Lizzy Bolan

Suddenly, there was a loud bang, and Zircon lifted up out of the water, juddering. It sounded like we had hit something hard.

Shaking with the shock, and with my heart beating fast, I took over the helm, while Rob went to check down below.

Luckily, all seemed fine, but we decided to stick to the middle of the river , as much as possible.

The large locks on the Seine are 185m long by 12m wide, operated by a lock keeper from a tower above.

Six hours after leaving Rouen, we arrived at the first lock, in Amfreville. It looked huge on approach – much bigger than I had expected, and very industrial.

Lizzy and Rob’s passage through the French canals. Credit: Maxine Heath

We soon found out that it was essential to call the lock keeper on our VHF radio, to request to pass through.

We were told in French, that we had to wait 10 minutes.

We later discovered that ‘dix minutes’ seemed to be a phrase used by most of the lock keepers, to indicate that we had to wait, but the duration could be anything from a few minutes to a couple of hours.

Hotel and working barges take priority on the French canals over leisure boats, and we were often kept waiting.

Eventually, the huge double doors of the lock slowly opened, with a loud groan, and the green light came on, indicating that we could enter.

Rob steered Zircon into this huge, cavernous space, and I looked up at the high lock walls, surrounding us.

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The first problem we encountered was that these locks were built to accommodate barges that are 110m long.

The bollards set into the lock walls were so far apart that our lines were not going to reach, to tie off Zircon ’s bow and stern.

The second problem was that, in our eagerness, we had arrived at Amfreville lock at low tide.

This meant we had to travel eight metres up the lock, instead of the four metres at high water.

Feeling nervous, but ready for the challenge, I waited on the bow, holding the line tightly, as the huge doors began to close.

Suddenly, there was a loud roaring sound, and water gushed in at an alarming rate from the lock gates in front of us.

The water level rose rapidly and my line was pulling Zircon down as I struggled to untie it, and get it on the next bollard.

I managed to secure it but we were still travelling upwards, and the process had to be quickly repeated.

A near miss on the French canals

‘Get your arm out of the way,’ Rob shouted, as Zircon ’s bow crashed into the lock wall, fortunately saved from any damage by our anchor taking the brunt of the blow.

I pulled my arm back just in time, and got the bow line on the next level, and then the next one after that.

Suddenly, I realised we were at the top of the lock, back in the sunshine, still in one piece. It had been one hell of a ride.

Despite reading books about the French canal locks, watching videos, and listening to other people’s experiences, nothing can prepare you for the moment when those doors bang shut behind you, and the water starts to flood in.

Lizzy and Rob enjoy a lunch stop before Digoin. Credit: Lizzy Bolan

We also learnt not to turn our engine off. Previously, in English locks, there had been an expectation to do so, but it seemed that the rules were different here.

First lock done, another 175 to go.

With that thought in mind, we motored along the beautiful river, considering what we could do differently.

The locks were more violent than we had expected. I dubbed them torture chambers.

As evening approached, we struggled to find somewhere to stop for the night.

We had expected to find lots of places to tie off along the river bank, but this was not so.

We ended up dropping anchor in a little cut, at the side of the river.

A couple of days and three more locks in, it was apparent that we needed to improve our technique drastically.

We spotted a rare pontoon, and stopped to discuss our options, seriously considering turning back, collecting our mast, and sailing around to the Med instead.

The bollards were too far apart for us to reach bow and stern lines, so we decided to tie off mid cleat to the ladder, as high up as possible, and motor against it.

A fresh approach

The next lock was make or break time.

Our new technique worked like a dream, and as we motored out of the lock, we were laughing, and hugging each other, with tears in our eyes, so excited.

We were on our way to Paris. What an amazing experience it was to arrive in Paris on a sailing boat.

I was blown away by the sight of the Eiffel Tower appearing, as we rounded a river bend.

The scenery just got better and better, and we looked in awe at the architecture, sculptures on the buildings and many bridges, as we passed by.

We felt proud of what we had achieved. We spent three nights in a marina , situated in the centre of Paris.

Boat and crew finally reunited with mast in Port Napoleo having successfully navigated the French canals. Credit: Lizzy Bolan

It cost €48 per night but this was the first time we had paid for a mooring since Rouen, and cheaper than a hotel room.

From Paris, it took us two days to travel 100km along the Upper Seine, passing through eight locks, to St Mammes, at the end of the river; the first opportunity to get fuel since leaving Rouen eight days ago, 303km away.

We stopped for one night, before picking up the smaller, shallower Bourbonnais canals.

We spent a further two months navigating through these waterways.

It was an eventful passage, really stressful at times, not knowing if we were going to make it through.

We broke down inside the third lock, and had to be towed back to St Mammes, and wait six days for a new part from the UK.

Once underway again at times we touched the bottom, dragging our keel through silt, as water levels dropped daily, due to a drought.

It was so nerve wracking to see our depth gauge drop to 0.1m, then 0.0m under our keel.

We got stuck for an hour at one point, before wriggling through, only to receive the news that the last shallow canal had dropped to 1.4m and was closing.

We had to turn back to Paris, through all the shallow water, and 94 locks, then navigate an alternative canal.

Thankfully, this route was not so shallow, and we were delighted to reach Port Napoleon, south of France, at the end of August, where we had our mast re-stepped.

With Zircon back to her full glory, we were ready to start our Mediterranean adventure; sailing to Spain, the Balearics, Sardinia, Sicily, Italy and the Greek islands.

Lessons Learned from sailing the French canals

• Have lots of fenders We took nine, and bought more on route. Some locks fill to the brim, so it is useful to have at least two higher and two lower each side. We had large fenders on the stern, and big ball fenders on the bow.
• VNF-run waterways The Voies Navigables de France (VNF) website can seem complicated but it contains very useful updates, and information on canal closures, warnings of obstructions and reduced depths. If we had accessed this information earlier, we would have avoided the Bourbonnais canals.
• Learn French phrases Some lock keepers don’t speak English, and you may have to call the VNF to report a broken lock or problem. We wrote useful sentences on a small whiteboard to help us.
• Don’t rush Be prepared for a long wait at broken down locks, or for holiday or working barges, which have priority. Take your time to enjoy the fantastic scenery.
• Carry fuel cans… …and a trolley to transport them. There are very few fuel stations. We often had a long walk to buy diesel from a supermarket, or fuel station in town.
• Beware pilot book ‘marina’ It could be a bank with grass-hidden bollards, a concrete wall with far apart bollards, or one pontoon. Take long mooring lines, also useful for big locks.
• Very few chandleries Many only cater for barges. Take spare service parts with you.
• Wear gloves Locks are often slimy, dirty and slippery. I hated putting my hands in cobwebby holes to tie off. Don’t wear a white t-shirt.
• Draught warning The maximum vessel draught, to navigate the canals, is 1.8m, but be aware that water levels may drop in the summer, especially if there is a drought.

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A Guide to Sailing in and Around France

France is by far one of the world’s great sailing destinations. With more than 3,200km (2,000mi) of coastline, it is also one of great contrast – from the rugged beauty and consistent winds of the Atlantic Ocean to the warm colours and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, where brightly coloured fishing boats moor alongside modern superyachts. The French Riviera has long been a leading maritime centre, which means that along with postcard-pretty scenery, the region is well set up with sailing infrastructure. Here are some top tips to making the most of a sailing adventure in France – with the warmer climbs of the south being the main focus, of course.

Get to know the ocean around the amazing coastal towns with Culture Trip’s Sailing Trips.

What to see and do in France

If you’re looking for some real gems to explore on the southern French coast, point your compass in the direction of Les Iles de Lérins. Located just half a mile off the coast of Cannes, these islands serve as an untouched pocket of natural beauty, where it’s possible to escape the crowds along a pine-scented promenade even during the high season months of July and August. On Ile Saint-Honorat – the smaller of the two islands – a community of monks have been making wine since the Middle Ages.

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Best mooring locations in France

Serving as a harbour since pre-Roman times, Port Vauban in Antibes (VHF Channel 9) has the capacity to welcome 1,650 yachts up to 170m (557ft) in length. Today, the marina prides itself as being the “Capital of yachting in the Mediterranean” and its great spread of amenities – from modern shower rooms to marina stores and bicycle rentals – is another lure for sailors.

Further along the coast to the east, the deep harbour of Villefranche-sur-Mer is framed by two leafy peninsulas and a cascade of pastel-coloured buildings at the water’s edge. Explore the medieval citadel that flanks the old town or have a sundown aperitif at a waterfront café. Closer to Saint-Tropez, the sandy beaches of Porquerolles island are lapped by Caribbean-esque waters.

Where to eat and drink in France

Southern French food is full of flavour, with an array of local produce on offer from fresh fish to rich olive oil. It’s a sunny cuisine that pairs perfectly with a glass of pale pink rosé from vineyards around Saint-Tropez. Typical dishes to discover include socca, a thin chickpea pancake cooked in a woodfire oven, pissaladière, focaccia topped with caramelized onions and anchovies, les petits farcis niçois, stuffed vegetables and pan bagna t , a sandwich stuffed with a traditional salad niçoise.

Just behind the port in Nice, Chez Pipo serves up the best socca in the city. If you’re after somewhere a little more swanky, Restaurant Jan – on the same street and headed up by ex-superyacht chef Jan Hendrik, – offers up Michelin-star dining in a beautiful setting.

Where to get groceries in France

On the French Riviera, you’ll find at least one supermarket within walking distance of major ports – in Cannes and Antibes, it’s Carrefour City, in Nice it’s Intermarché and in Monaco, it’s Casino. Daily markets – such as Le Marché Forville in Cannes and Le Marché de la Condamine in Monaco – are a great option to stock up on fresh, seasonal produce, as well. For an extended selection, Carrefour Antibes and Carrefour Nice Lingostière are two of the region’s biggest hypermarkets, but both are located on the edge of town so a taxi service is best.

Key annual sailing events in France

Autumn is the season for sailing events, with a busy calendar that includes two regattas that showcase the power and performance of sailing yachts: the Cannes Royal Regattas in September and Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez in October. Also in September, the Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show debut new models from boatbuilders around the globe.

Climate and weather in France

Hot summers and warm shoulder seasons mean the best months for sailing along the French Mediterranean coast are between May and September. During the high season – July and August – you can look forward to long, sunny days and gentle winds but with this consistent weather, comes crowded ports and increased anchorage fees. Mild winters mean it is possible to sail all year round although the Mistral, a strong and cold North Westerly wind – which comes from the Rhône Valley – is more common in the colder months and can bring winds in excess of 65kmh (40mph).

How to get to France

With more than 30 international airports in France, chances are you won’t have too far to travel once you have landed to reach your charter yacht. For the ports of the French Riviera – including Saint-Tropez – Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is the gateway and you’ll find train, bus, tram and taxi options for your onward journey.

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See & Do

Why dijon is the perfect french weekend getaway.

Best Places to Visit in France From the UK

Food & Drink

The best food to eat in the french alps.

Must-Visit Food Markets in France

Places to Stay

The top spas to book in historic french cities.

The Top French Dishes You Need to Try

The Most Beautiful Castles to Visit in Normandy, France

Secret Alternatives to Busy Marinas in the French Riviera for Avoiding the Crowds

Amazing Day Trips to Take Around Brittany by Boat

Amazing Day Trips to Take Around Corsica by Boat

A Guide to Sailing in Charente-Maritime, France

A Guide to Sailing in Corsica, France

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French Sailing Terms + French Practice Video ⛵️

Learn the French sailing vocabulary and come on an adventure with me aboard “la Nébuleuse”, an old French sailing boat.

First, let’s study the French sailing vocabulary – scroll down for the video of my sailing boat encounter in Paimpol! Follow the link for more info about the sailing boat I boarded and sailing trips in Bréhat and Paimpol.

30 French Sailing Words

• Faire de la voile – to sail
• Faire du bateau – to navigate a boat, wether it’s a sailing boat or something else
• Un bateau – a boat (note the plural : des bateaux)
• Note that we say “un bateau à …” followed by the mode of propulsion, and “un bateau de…” followed by its function
• Un bateau à voile – a sailing boat
• Un bateau à moteur – a motor boat
• Un voilier – a sailing boat
• Un navire – another fancy way to say a boat, a ship
• Un gréement – an old fishing boat like the one you’ll see in the video below – un gréement is also a rig.
• Une goélette – schooner
• Un bateau de pêche – fishing boat
• Un bateau de croisière – cruise boat
• Un canot – dinghy
• Un canoë – canoe
• Une péniche – barge
• À bord – aboard
• À tribord – starboard side
• À bâbord – port side
• Lever l’ancre – to weigh anchor
• Prendre la mer, partir en bateau – to set sail
• Jeter l’ancre – to drop anchor
• mouiller – to moor
• être amarré – to be moored
• faire une excursion touristique – to take a sightseeing tour
• Un mât – mast
• Une voile – sail
• Une coque – hull
• Un pont – deck
• La barre – helm
• Le foc – jib
• La quille – keel
• Le noeud – knot
• Une cabine – a cabin

Are you looking for very specific French sailing terms – I suggest you visit this site which includes a very complete free French English bilingual sailing dictionary .

Master All Numbers From 0 To 999 999 999! The most in-depth audiobook about French numbers anywhere

More Details & Audio Samples

My French Sailing Boat Adventure

The other day I was swimming in the bay of Paimpol and saw a beautiful sailing ship in the distance. The sea that day was particularly calm and I had my flippers on, so I decided to investigate…

I swam all the way to the sailing boat and the crew invited me onboard. I was on “La Nébuleuse”, one of the prettiest old sailing ship of France. Captain Cédric gave me a tour! It was a wonderful experience.

I shot a “live” French practice video for you. Enjoy! If you like it, please ❤️, share, leave a comment: seeing your reactions really encourage me to keep shooting these live videos.

On the bottom right where you see the gear and CC options you may turn the subtitles on/off and select French or English. I checked them myself. Enjoy!

You may also enjoy my article about Bréhat – with another vidéo.

Camille Chevalier-Karfis

Born and raised in Paris, I have been teaching today's French to adults for 25+ years in the US and France. Based on my students' goals and needs, I've created unique downloadable French audiobooks focussing on French like it's spoken today, for all levels. Come to Paimpol and enjoy an exclusive French immersion homestay with me in Brittany .

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First Class 7.5

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Specifications

The First Class 7.5 stemmed from the close collaboration between the Fédération Française de Voile [French Sailing Federation] and Beneteau shipbuilding who knew how to combine their expertise in the field of high-performance sailing boats intended for training young sailors.  With its particularly sound performance, the First Class 7.5, sturdy, transportable and easy to maintain, constitutes an excellent springboard for sailing clubs and up-and-comers.  Designed by Groupe Finot, this modern and dynamic sports monotype was designed for crewed regattas on a level playing field: learning and improvement, high-level match racing or club racing in fleets.  Through its performance and the sensations that it evokes, it is also aimed at those who want to enjoy practising sport sailing out of competition. 

Naval designer :  FINOT Jean-Marie

exterior design

Transat AG2R la mondiale !

BENETEAU a partner in the race!

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Beneteau services.

With teams for sea trials, financing, customization, events, an after-sales service, and a network of dealers worldwide, BENETEAU delivers the help and expertise every boat owner needs throughout his boating life maintaining an enduring customer relationship.

Other boats from the range

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