They fly above the water, defying the laws of physics and time. These sailboats impress by even being able to lift Ultim class trimarans and circumnavigate the globe. Foils, these underwater wings that lift the hulls of sailboats, have already transformed competitive sailing. But what if tomorrow they also changed the way you cruise? Between …
We often hear about the ideal boat, its characteristics, its qualities. But the big question is, what is the ideal boat? Does it even exist? Do we all have the same definition of our dream sailboat? I offer some possible answers. Buying a boat is a significant moment in a boater’s life. Choosing a sailboat …
In an era where catamarans dominate the offshore cruising market and where offshore racers set off on ultra-modern vessels or former 10-meter stars like those of the Golden Globe RaceOne question remains: Is there really such a thing as the ideal boat for a round-the-world trip?The answer, however disappointing it may be for purists, is …
Sailboat maintenance is a recurring topic. And our relationships with nautical professionals aren’t always smooth sailing. While routine boat maintenance can be done yourself, at some point, a professional with genuine expertise and experience will need to work on your boat. And the vast majority of professionals are trustworthy, it must be said. But to …
A few years ago, I made an observation: my boat had become a source of constraints far more than a vehicle for freedomBetween time-consuming maintenance, unnecessary equipment to repair, mounting costs, and the stress of managing everything, the magic of sailing had faded. So, I decided to get back to basics. Fewer objects, less complexity, …
On the second-hand market, you can find sailboats of all ages, for all types of sailing programs and for all budgets, from the most expensive to the most affordable. But while the question of age is often accompanied by the question of budget, is it really reasonable to buy a sailboat for less than 10,000 …
When you’re planning to explore the sea and go boating, the first question that comes to mind is whether to buy or rent a boat. This question is generally linked to budget, both when purchasing the boat and when considering year-round availability and sailing opportunities. Indeed, while buying a sailboat is a dream and a …
The availability and number of marina berths in France has been a problem plaguing the recreational boating market for many years. And yet, is the number of marina berths truly insufficient? It is often said that the recreational boating market in France is hampered by the number of marina berths. It is true that finding …
Organized moorings are an alternative to pontoon berths. Learn all about the regulations for mooring your boat. A berth on a pontoon is excessively expensive for a sailboat. Anchoring can be a very attractive alternative. Having a berth on a pontoon is convenient, we can all agree on that. However, berths are expensive, both literally …
Boating professionals are often at the center of controversy and anger among boaters, both on the docks and in online forums. So, are shipyards, marine mechanics, and other chandlers trustworthy, or do we, as boaters, also need to adopt some new habits? How many times have we complained about the mechanic who winterized our engine? …
It’s large, spacious, stable… and a dream come true for all cruising enthusiasts. Yet, the catamaran sometimes divides boaters. Between those who swear it’s the ideal boat for family travel and those who call it a “false good idea,” the debate exists, and it’s legitimate, as you’ll see. The catamaran market is booming. Sales are …
Here are 15 tips for choosing a sailboat. The goal of this guide is to help you purchase a new or used sailboat that will allow you to sail peacefully on a boat that matches your sailing plan, budget, and the enjoyment of the entire crew. This guide, designed to help you choose the right …
Here’s a controversial question: Is it still necessary to have paper charts near your chart table? Beyond regulations, the real question is whether you still often spread out your nautical charts on your table or in the saloon, or if you’ve completely forgotten these relics in favor of tablets, smartphones, and navigation software. Well, the …
Are you planning to buy a boat but don’t know where to start? Buying a boat is a significant investment. To avoid disappointment and unpleasant surprises, you need to make the right choice. Just like buying a car, purchasing a boat depends on several criteria. What Type of Boat Suits You Best? Buying your first …
The rigid inflatable boat (RIB) is increasingly becoming the essential boat for many boaters. Combining ease of maintenance, a refined hull, safety, and versatility, this type of boat meets many needs, from beginners to the most experienced sailors. But how do you navigate the vast market offerings? What criteria should you consider to make the …
Buying a sailboat means choosing one that matches your sailing program. Whether for coastal cruising or racing, sailboats will not be the same. Among the selection criteria, the type of ballast is crucial. Choosing a keelboat or a dinghy will address several needs related to your type of sailing and mooring. Let’s explore together the …
Choosing and buying a sailboat, whether for cruising or racing, requires selecting the type of appendage that will equip your boat. This means choosing between a keelboat and a dinghy, as well as a twin-keel or other options. The type of keel or centerboard you choose will impact your sailing program, boat storage, marina berth, …
Here’s a question we often hear at boat shows and on the docks. When planning to buy a sailboat, the question of budget is sometimes accompanied by thoughts about your future investment. Should you buy a new boat or a used one? Boating is a passion that can be expensive. Between the price of the …
There are two types of dinghies: the centerboard dinghy (DI) and the weighted centerboard dinghy (DL). While both types of sailboats allow access to all bodies of water and can be beached at low tide, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. So how do you choose between a centerboard dinghy and a weighted centerboard …
The first boat always leaves great memories. Between the inexpensive sailboat for beginners and the large, complicated-to-maneuver voyage sailboat, it’s not always easy to find your first boat, especially when you’re discovering sailing and the sea. So, I offer you 5 tips for choosing your beginner sailboat, or simply your first sailboat. Buying your first …
Choosing your sailboat, whether new or used, means making a compromise between your budget and your sailing program. And the question that will almost systematically arise is that of the ideal size of your future boat. Reducing this question to a choice between an older, larger boat or a smaller, more recent one would be …
Today, there are different types of sailboats designed for various purposes. Here are the sailboats you can encounter on the water, their intended uses, and the different design categories of pleasure sailboats. Since the early days of sailing, boats have evolved significantly to become what they are today. And this evolution continues. There are many …
Boating is an expensive activity. Today, with various geopolitical crises and inflation, the maintenance costs of our boats are clearly going to increase even more. Indeed, most of the equipment on our sailboats is metallic, and metals have become very expensive. At the same time, the hulls, decks of our boats, and our maintenance products …