La Flotte, Ile de Ré: Sailing Catamaran Cruise

If you’re considering a boat trip around Ile de Ré, this sailing catamaran cruise from La Flotte is one experience that catches the eye with its promise of eco-friendly sailing and stunning views. We’ve gathered some insights from travelers who’ve done it, so you can get a real sense of what to expect.

What immediately appeals to us about this outing is its environmentally conscious approach—the boat is powered solely by the wind, so it’s a gentle, sustainable way to explore the coast. Plus, the chance to take in the small harbour atmosphere and see landmarks from the sea makes it feel intimate and authentic.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that weather can make or break this kind of trip. One review pointed out that a rainy day left the experience feeling very minimalist and somewhat aimless, even though weather isn’t the tour’s fault.

This cruise is best suited for those wanting a relaxing, scenic ride with a bit of local flavor—ideal for first-timers or anyone craving a breather on the water without a high price tag.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly sailing makes for a sustainable, peaceful experience.
• The small harbour setting adds to the charm and intimacy of the trip.
• Expect to see notable landmarks like the abbaye des chateliers and the Vauban ramparts from the sea.
• The two-hour duration is perfect for a quick, relaxed outing without feeling rushed.
• Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy onboard, since these aren’t included.
• The skipper’s local knowledge helps bring the scenery and landmarks to life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Sailing Experience

We love the idea of a slow, wind-powered cruise—it’s a gentle way to see the coast, especially if you’re after a peaceful escape rather than a high-energy adventure. After meeting at the Pontoon G in La Flotte Harbour, you’re greeted by your friendly skipper, ready to set sail under the green lighthouse.

The itinerary can vary depending on the wind conditions, which is quite typical for sailing adventures. Usually, you’ll be heading toward Baie de Loix and following the famous Vauban ramparts of Saint-Martin de Ré. This means the views aren’t just beautiful—they’re historically interesting, especially the abbaye des chateliers and the fortifications of Saint-Martin.

The boat itself is described as perfect for a peaceful trip, and the reviews mention how friendly the guides are, adding a layer of warmth and local expertise that makes the experience more engaging. While the exact program might shift with the weather, you’re generally in for a scenic ride that lets you appreciate the coast from a different perspective.

The Experience Itself

The two-hour cruise offers a nice window of time—long enough to relax and enjoy the landscape without getting bored. You’ll be sailing in a small group, which feels more personal and less commercial than larger tours. This is part of what makes the experience stand out.

One reviewer raved, “A pure moment of happiness… the boat is perfect for enjoying a peaceful trip to the sea, and our guides are super friendly. All 4 of us loved it.” That’s a good indicator that if you value a calm, friendly environment, this trip hits the mark.

However, not everyone had the same experience. Another traveler pointed out, “The weather! Non-stop rain! No one’s fault! But even so, the trip lacked commentary and interest.” This highlights how weather can significantly influence your enjoyment, especially if the boat’s itinerary doesn’t include additional narrative or activities.

The fact that you can bring your own picnic is a nice touch, turning the cruise into a laid-back floating lunch or snack break. Just remember, food and drinks (besides water) aren’t supplied, so pack accordingly.

Analyzing the Price and Its Value

At around $50 per person, this cruise is quite reasonable. The price reflects a two-hour, eco-friendly sailing with a knowledgeable skipper—something that feels fair for the experience. You’re paying for the tranquility, beautiful scenery, and the chance to see some landmarks from a unique vantage point.

Unlike more commercial tours that might include a lot of extras, this trip is straightforward. The value comes from the peacefulness and the chance to relax without the hustle of larger crowds. If you’re after a sustainable, scenic way to spend a couple of hours, it’s a good deal.

Practical Details & Tips

• Meeting Point is at Pontoon G at the end of the dike in La Flotte Harbour, under the green lighthouse. Look for the boat marked “BLUE NOTE BY KAPALOUEST.”
• Duration is about 2 hours, but departure times can shift by up to an hour depending on the tide.
• What to Bring: sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, jacket (for wind or rain), and your own snacks or drinks.
• Weather: The trip goes rain or shine, so dress for the weather and check the forecast.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly.
• Language: The guides speak French, so some language skills might help if you want to chat more.

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Who Should Consider This?

This cruise is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxing, eco-conscious way to see Ile de Ré. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy small-group outings, gentle sailing, and scenic views. It’s also a good choice for travelers wanting a quick escape from land-based sightseeing, with the chance to enjoy a peaceful boat ride.

However, if you’re expecting a detailed commentary or a lively, activity-packed trip, this might not be your best bet. Also, if weather isn’t cooperating, the experience could feel a bit underwhelming, so keep that in mind.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for those who can handle being on a boat for two hours. It’s not explicitly family-focused, but older children who enjoy calm boat rides would likely be fine.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own small picnic or snacks. Drinks other than water aren’t included, so bring what you want to enjoy onboard.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers—bring a jacket just in case the wind picks up. Sun protection (sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen) is also recommended, especially in summer.

How flexible are the departure times?
Departure times depend on the tide and can shift by 30 minutes to an hour. It’s best to check the specific schedule when booking.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly.

What is the main highlight of this cruise?
You get a peaceful sail that offers unique perspectives of Ile de Ré’s landmarks and coastline, all while enjoying sustainable, wind-powered sailing.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the La Flotte sailing catamaran cruise offers a charming and tranquil way to see parts of Ile de Ré’s coast and landmarks. Its eco-friendly approach and small-group atmosphere make it stand out for travelers seeking a gentle, scenic escape. While weather can influence your experience, when the sun’s out, you’re in for a lovely, peaceful ride with great views and a friendly skipper to guide you.

If you’re after a laid-back, authentic sailing experience without a hefty price tag, and you’re okay with the unpredictability of weather and simple amenities, this cruise is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy the coast at a slow pace and soak in the atmosphere of this charming island from a different angle.

Remember to pack your essentials, check the weather forecast, and enjoy the calm, wind-filled journey across Ile de Ré’s waters. Happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: