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Explore stunning locales for your dream sailing holiday adventure.
Saintes, an exquisite travel destination, is sure to captivate you with its undeniable geographical beauty, steeped in culture and filled to the brim with interesting sights and activities. This charming city nestled on the banks of the Charente river, offers sailing enthusiasts a unique experience unlike any other, teeming with rich coastal features, favourable sailing environments, and well-equipped marinas.
The allure of a sailing holiday in Saintes draws in travellers worldwide due to its historical appeal that dates back to the Roman era, the stunning natural landscapes surrounding the location, and the thriving sailing culture. This article offers you an in-depth analysis of why Saintes might just be the ideal destination for your next yacht vacation.
Being home to the Archaeological Museum and numerous Roman ruins, a sailing holiday in Saintes provides an opportunity to travel back in time whilst basking in its natural beauty. Apart from being a historical treasure trove, Saintes offers excellent sailing conditions, with the calm Charente river making it suitable for beginners and experienced sailors alike.
Saintes is easily accessible, given its well-established transportation network. The fastest way to reach is by flight to Bordeaux or La Rochelle airports, followed by a short drive. The city is well-connected to major towns and cities across France through the rail network as well.
Sailing in Saintes offers an opportunity to explore various hotspots. Start off your journey at the Port des Gonds, the most famous river anchorage in Saintes. The route from Port des Gonds to Rochefort promises an enchanting sailing experience with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. You'll view historic landmarks, gorgeous flora, and fauna on this route, making it an absolute must for anyone planning a sailing holiday in Saintes.
The period from June to September is considered ideal as the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. For individuals who prefer a quieter vacation interspersed with sailing, visiting Saintes during the spring and fall off-peak seasons could be a wise choice, offering a peaceful and serene sailing environment.
Saintes experiences a temperate oceanic climate. Summers are warm and winters are mild, rendering it a year-round destination. The sailing conditions in Saintes are favourable with the Charente river offering a calm and manageable sailing environment.
Between ventures on your yacht, turn explorer on land. Saintes boasts of a rich history and varied culture. Don't miss the Roman amphitheater and the Saint-Pierre Cathedral, both testaments to the architectural grandeur of the city. The local cuisine, dominated by seafood, will surely tantalize your taste buds.
Engage in a multitude of outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking and bird watching. Enjoy watersports such as kayaking in the gentle waters of the Charente river. Savor the nightlife by visiting local bistros and try the traditional Pineau des Charentes, a local aperitif.
The Port des Gonds is one of the best mooring spots, offering excellent facilities. Other notable marinas include the Port de Boutillac and the Marina de Rochefort.
Renting a holiday yacht in Saintes can be done with or without a skipper. Chartering a bareboat allows you to steer your holiday on your own terms. On the other hand, hiring a captain can relieve you of navigation duties, letting you focus on enjoying your holiday.
If choosing an all-inclusive, crewed yacht, you can enjoy personalized service, follow custom itineraries, and absorb local insights, all while basking in luxury and comfort during your yacht vacation in Saintes.
If you plan on charting a bareboat holiday yacht in Saintes, a valid sailing license is required. Also, one must comply with all local marine regulations.
Apart from essential clothing and personal items, consider packing waterproof jackets and trousers, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for protection from the elements. Safety items, a first-aid kit, navigational aids, entertainment options, and light snacks can also be packed.
Destination | Description |
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Terre-de-Haut Island | Known for its beautiful beaches, the harbor filled with breezy sailboats and French Creole charm of Terre-de-Haut Island is a sight to behold. |
Fort Napoleon | This historic fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Saintes archipelago. It also houses a botanical garden and a museum. |
Pain de Sucre Beach | An underwater paradise filled with diverse coral reefs and fish species, ideal for snorkeling. |
Baie de Pompierre | A gorgeous bay with calm waters, perfect for yacht anchoring and swimming. Lush tropical vegetation surrounds the bay, creating a tranquil atmosphere. |
Bois Joli | Bois Joli is home to serene beaches, vibrant-colored bungalows and breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. It is a picture-perfect destination. |
Grande-Anse | A secluded beach with clear shallow waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling in a peaceful environment. |
Les Augustins | This isolated, rocky peninsula is of high geological interest and a remarkable viewpoint, offering spectacular sunset views over the Caribbean Sea. |
Weather:
With an average temperature ranging between 25°C to 30°C, Saintes is an ideal destination for sailing holidays.Sunny Days:
Saintes enjoys around 250 to 300 sunny days a year, making it a haven for sailing enthusiasts.Currency:
Carry Euros for local transactions as Saintes is a part of overseas France.Greeting:
A simple "Bonjour" is preferred when greeting local residents.Must-Try Dishes:
Gourmet travellers should try the fresh fish and shellfish in the local Creole sauce.Geography:
Saintes is an archipelago in the Lesser Antilles, a region known for its biodiversity and clear waters.Marine Environment:
Saintes boasts marine parks and reserves teeming with colourful marine life – a treat for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.Charming Houses:
The picturesque streets of Saintes boast Creole houses with multi-colored shutters and high-pitched roofs.Gastronomy:
The local cuisine is a delightful fusion of traditional French culinary practices and Caribbean ingredients.Natural Beauty:
Saintes is renowned for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and diverse flora and fauna.Marine Life:
Home to various fish species, divers can have a close encounter with the vibrant underwater life in Saintes.Local Crafts:
The charming boutiques offer intricately designed local crafts, perfect for souvenirs.Historical Tours:
Discover the island’s history by visiting various forts, ruins and the Maritime Museum.Marine Parks:
Experience the unspoiled marine environment in the protected reserves – a pristine location for diving and snorkeling.How many holiday yacht are available for charter in Saintes?
How much does it cost to charter a holiday yacht in Saintes?
Private charter with overnight accommodation
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How many vacation yacht are available for bareboat charter in Saintes?
With overnight accomodation | Min. price per day | Avg. price per day | Max. price per day |
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Motorboat | 321 $ | 551 $ | 872 $ |
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