Biscay

The Biscay coast of France offers superb cruising, with peaceful anchorages, charming islands, beautiful beaches, and the rare chance to moor right in the heart of historic towns like Vannes, La Rochelle, and Saint-Martin-de-Ré.

Beginning in Biscay is the ideal introduction to sailing south of the Chenal du Four. Whether you’re planning to return to your home port, explore the region at a leisurely pace, or continue onward toward the Mediterranean, this seminar will equip you with the essential knowledge to make the most of your voyage.

For many sailors, crossing the Bay of Biscay is one of the longest and most challenging passages they’ve attempted. While summer generally offers more favourable conditions, careful preparation is key to ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. 

This  all day seminar will introduce the essential resources to help you plan your crossing and will feature first hand accounts from Cruising Association members who will share their own experiences and lessons learned from making the passage.

This years Biscay rally will be held at Port Haliguen near the tip of the Quiberon Peninsula.  This is a covenient all weather port to get to if you are based in Brittany or passing through on your way heading South or North.  

PLEASE NOTE we have had to make a slight change to the original planned rally dates to Friday June 13^th to Sunday June 15^th.  

Our Annual Fitting out Supper, this is your chance to catch up with fellow CA members before you set off for this seasons adventures.

Venue:  La Cale Sèche, Arzal Marina

Date/Time: Saturday 24th May 1900 for 1930

For many mariners, crossing the Bay of Biscay requires a longer passage than they have previously taken and although conditions in the Biscay are kinder during summer than other seasons, careful planning will increase the chances of a successful and more comfortable passage. The seminar will cover the resources available to help you plan your Biscay crossing together with presentations from fellow CA Members on their experiences undertaking their own Biscay crossings. 

• Sourcing and Using Weather Information - Simon Rowell

The Biscay coast of France is an excellent cruising ground, with quiet anchorages to explore, lovely islands, beautiful beaches, and the opportunity to moor your boat close to the centre of historic towns such as Vannes, La Rochelle or St Martin de Ré.

This years Biscay Section Rally is being held at Île d'Yeu a delighful island off  the coast of the Vendee.  The  Île d'Yeu is renowned for its rugged unspoilt coastline and unique lifestyle. Only 10km long and 4km wide, the island, however has a rich cultural heritage dating back to prehistoric times.  We have places booked for up to 12 boats in the welcoming marina at Port Joinville on the north coast of the island.  If you'd like to join the rally please download the booking form below and return it to Rex Frost the Rally Organiser (his contact details are on the form).

The very popular Biscay Section's Annual Fitting Out Supper is being held on the evening of May 18th at the Cale Sèche restaurant within the Arzal Marina complex. It's a great event and the perfect opportunity to chat amongst like minded people to discuss plans for this season's sailing as well as get the lowdown on the previous season's experiences!  If you are in the area or passing through we look forward to meeting you.

The Biscay coast of France is an excellent cruising ground, with quiet anchorages to explore, lovely islands, beautiful beaches, and the opportunity to moor your boat close to the centre of historic towns such as Vannes, La Rochelle or St Martin de Ré.