Sailing Holidays Saintes & Yacht Vacation

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.

Why choose Saintes as the ultimate destination for a sailing holiday?

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.

How to get to Saintes?

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.

What are the popular destinations and routes for sailing holiday in Saintes?

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.

What is the best time to book 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.

How is the weather and sailing conditions in Saintes?

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.

How to explore the history and culture of Saintes?

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.

What are the top attractions and outdoor activities in Saintes?

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.

What are the best marinas and anchorages in Saintes?

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.

Should I rent a holiday yacht in Saintes with or without a skipper?

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.

Should I rent a holiday yacht in Saintes with or without a crew?

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.

What license do I need to charter a holiday yacht 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.

What to pack for a sailing holiday in Saintes?

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.

Popular Destinations for Yacht Vacation in Saintes

Destination	Description
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.

Tips for Yacht Vacation in Saintes

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.

Highlights for Yacht Vacation in Saintes

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about Yacht Vacations in Saintes & Near Me

How many holiday yacht are available for charter in Saintes?

There are 9 holiday yachts of various sizes in Saintes.

How much does it cost to charter a holiday yacht in Saintes?

The cost to charter a holiday yacht in Saintes is typically between $332 and $902 per day, with an average daily price of $569.

Private charter with overnight accommodation

The price range for holiday yacht rental with overnight accommodation in Saintes is typically between $332 and $902 per night, with an average price of $569.

How much does it cost to rent a vacation yacht for a week in Saintes?

The cost to charter a holiday yacht in Saintes is typically between $2,321 and $6,314 per week, with an average weekly price of $3,986.

What are the popular holiday yacht brands in Saintes?

Popular brands in Saintes are: Pénichette, Europa.

What are the popular holiday yacht models in Saintes?

Popular models in Saintes are: 1020, 1165 FR, 1180, 1400, 1500FB, 400, 950E, Pénichette 1120.

What are the dining options on board a holiday yacht in Saintes?

On a holiday yacht, guests have the option to either purchase their own food supplies or have the boat owner/crew acquire the supplies for them. When there is a crew on board, they typically take care of the cooking. For more information about meal options, please review the listing details.

What is the average number of cabins on a holiday yacht in Saintes?

The average number of cabins on a holiday yacht in Saintes is 2.67. For larger groups, there are holiday yachts with up to 4 cabins available for charter as well.

What is the average sleeping capacity on a holiday yacht in Saintes?

Sleeping capacity in Saintes ranges from 4 to 12 persons, with an average capacity of 6.56 persons.

What is the average cruising capacity on a holiday yacht in Saintes?

Cruising capacity in Saintes ranges from 4 to 12 persons, with an average capacity of 6.56 persons.

Can I charter a holiday yacht as bareboat or skippered in Saintes?

You can charter a holiday yacht as bareboat in Saintes.

How many vacation yacht are available for bareboat charter in Saintes?

There are 9 holiday yachts available for bareboat charter in Saintes.

Summary of Cost of Sailing Holidays in Saintes & Near Me

With overnight accomodation	Min. price per day	Avg. price per day	Max. price per day
Motorboat	332 $	569 $	902 $

Popular Destinations for Sailing Holidays

Sailing Holiday Bormes-les-Mimosas Sailing Holiday Cogolin Sailing Holiday Ajaccio Sailing Holiday Hyeres Sailing Holiday La Rochelle Sailing Holiday Marseille Sailing Holiday Arzon Sailing Holiday Bram Sailing Holiday Argens-Minervois Sailing Holiday Saint-Leger-sur-Dheune Sailing Holiday Corbigny Sailing Holiday Dompierre-sur-Besbre Sailing Holiday Joigny Sailing Holiday Lutzelbourg Sailing Holiday Saint-Martin-sur-Oust Sailing Holiday Lattes Sailing Holiday Scey-sur-Saone-et-Saint-Albin