Brittany

WEATHER - During July and August, South Brittany around Belle-Île enjoys mild, sunny maritime weather with average daytime air temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and cooler evenings around 15°C (59°F). Sea temperatures are comfortable for swimming and sailing, averaging between 18°C and 20°C (64°F to 68°F). Rainfall is relatively low for the region, with about 30 to 50 mm per month spread over light, brief showers rather than prolonged storms. Prevailing winds come from the west and northwest, typically ranging from 8 to 18 knots, offering steady and manageable sailing conditions, though occasional gusts above 20 knots can occur with passing Atlantic fronts. Traveling here is comparable to Maine and other parts of New England during the summer months.

WHERE THE VOYAGE BEGIN - There are three primary starting points based on which vessel you choose. Location 1) Quiberon, location 2) Port du Crouesty, location 3) Port of Trinité-sur-Mer. The vessel in your quote will indicate the marina location.

HOW TO GET THERE - There are a few ways to get to the starting marina. By plane, you can fly into Nantes then take a 90 minute bus or taxi. Another option is to take a 2-hr high speed train from Paris to Vannes and take a 30 minute taxi to the starting base. Quiberon is approximately an hour.

WHO IS BEST FOR THIS ADVENTURE - This itinerary is more off-the-beaten-path and for the adventurous - go with the flow travelers. This is a rustic area of France and while there are nice facilities, the region is 'old-school' and not every convenience is available. If this is your first sailing charter and first time with the Sailing Collective, be sure to schedule a consultation with our specialists so we can talk through details. If you have been with Sailing Collective in the past, we highly recommend you join this adventure!

EXPLORING ASHORE - Going ashore to explore the islands and local towns will take place daily. We will dine at local restaurants and experience the nature and culture. There will be a decent amount of 'boat time' during the itinerary as well.

BEST TIME TO BOOK - Because the best weather takes place in July and August, we recommend you book in advance with 8 months recommended. There are limited vessels large enough for the Sailing Collective adventure and they book quickly. Request a quote today!

Provisioning Sailing Collective will provision your journey with local foods and produce.  Cooking Aboard: Your Sailing Collective chef will thoroughly review your guest form with your culinary preferences and will customize a menu specifically for your departure.

Included in provisioning package*: 

• 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners*, snacks, water, coffee & tea

* Subjected to change, 3 meals will take place shore.

Dietary Restrictions We can accommodate as long as we know in advance! It is important to notify us of any dietary restrictions ahead of time and include full details in the Guest Form that you will fill out prior to the start of the trip.

Beverages You can choose to bring your own beverages aboard or request for your crew to provision beverages on your behalf to be billed at the end of the charter. Select locations will have online ordering options. If you would like your crew to purchase beverages, we ask you be specific with quantities and quality (for example: we prefer light red wine in the $20 - $30 per bottle and scotch no pricier than $50)

ADDITIONAL COSTS We recommend planning on having at least $300 – $1000 in spending money depending on spending habits. You will be responsible for paying for:

• All expenses on shore including meals and drinks

• Flights and transportation to and from the marina location

• Onboard beverages

• Gratuity (a 10% to 20% offering)

GRATUITY Tipping your captain and crew is welcomed. If you are satisfied with your service, the industry standard for yacht charters ranges from 10-20% of the cost of the charter. Gratuity is split evenly between the crew and can be paid via cash, check, Venmo, or PayPal. Please contact your Sailing Collective Journey Coordinator if you have any questions.

• 10% - Standard good time on holiday with good service.

• 15% - Exceptional service on your holiday with exceptional service!

• 20% - Extraordinary experience and your crew sent the voyage to the moon and back!!

PACKING LIST Collapsible bags in place of large rigid suitcases are advised for ease of transport on and off the boat. Loading and unloading from the dingy can be a wet activity, a pair of shoes such as flip-flops that you can get wet if we are landing on a beach is recommended.

As the vast majority of your time will be spent outside, prepare for elements - bring a light raincoat just in case, a hat to shield yourself from the sun, and a warm layer.  Throughout the week we may dine out at a nice restaurant, so bring an outfit looks nice and suits your style.

We also encourage that people bring ecologically appropriate products into ocean environments. You can read more about those recommendations on the Sailing Collective Journal here: Packing for a Healthy Ocean

The Journey Schedule Meeting time is at 9:00am on Day 1 of the charter (unless previously discussed boarding time change). We return back to port on the final evening by 5:00pm and disembark between 8-9:00am on the final day.

Terms & Conditions By booking this journey, you agree to comply with the stated Terms & Conditions available on our website. Please contact info@thesailingcollective.com with any questions. 

Travel Insurance We recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy that protects you in case of general and covid-related trip interruptions. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance, you forfeit the right to a refund or credit in the event you have to cancel your trip with Sailing Collective.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS Please ensure your passport is valid for the period of travel and for six months after you return. The Sailing Collective cannot be held responsible for refusal of entry or travel due to lack of visas. If you are in any doubt please contact your Embassy for full details.

REALISTIC DISCLAIMER ABOUT BOATS Boats can break. Charter boats are like a rental car, they are checked before and after each charter. The engineer team is required to check the vessel for maintenance issues and make repairs during the half-day turnaround. Vessels require constant attention like any other complex mechanical system. If you are particular about your exact vacation requirements, we recommend booking a yacht charter with a higher price point allowing for three-crew and we are happy to assist brokering a luxury yacht charter for you and your group.