The Gulf of Morbihan is one of the most renowned bodies of water on the Atlantic coast. This small sea, which gave its name to the department, is located in southern Brittany, in the Bay of Quiberon.
THE Gulf of Morbihan is one of the richest cruises in South Brittany. Located in Quiberon BayThe Gulf, meaning “little sea” in Breton, is open to boaters. By sailboat, you can only enter the Gulf with the rising tide. This current is very strong, and it’s impossible to pass against it approximately three hours before high tide. The area requires careful navigational preparation.
Indeed, between high and low tide, the Gulf’s landscape changes completely. It will be essential to maintain a marine chart Within easy reach. Here are 5 reasons to sail in the Gulf of Morbihan.
Sail with the currents of the Gulf of Morbihan
The currents in the Gulf of Morbihan are very strongThe Jument current is considered one of the strongest in Europe. It can reach speeds of up to 9 knots with a tidal coefficient of 120. That said, it does not pose a danger to navigation, except north of Port NavaloAnd at Grand Mouton rock, the currents won’t throw you against the rock. As a side note, the fishermen and their SinagotsThey lowered their sails upon entering the gulf and returned to port with the current.
Magnificent landscapes in the heart of Morbihan
The Gulf of Morbihan is full of different landscapes. Navigating the Gulf means navigating between land and sea.The body of water is made up of a multitude of islets. Some are inhabited, such as Monk Islandrenowned for its beautiful beach, colours and beautiful homes. The island of ArzAs for the other one, it is wilder and also deserves a stopover. This will be more easily accessible with a dinghy.
The other islets are often privately owned or belong to the maritime domain. You might spot some discreet luxury villas. Some are offered for sale in luxury seaside rental in Brittany Outside of these villas, you will discover old farms, tidal mills and a whole landscape very typical of Brittany.
The Auray River, which leads to Saint Goustan is another unavoidable passage. Navigation will, here too, be done with the current. You will pass through the narrows between Port Blanc and Bono, and its magnificent houses by the water.
Numerous small harbors will welcome you in a calm and peaceful atmosphere, especially outside of peak season. Some offer moorings, such as BadenOthers will require beaching the boat at low tide, such as Locmariaquer.
The megalithic sites of Quiberon Bay
Quiberon Bay is one of the key sites of the megalithic era. The Carnac alignments are the most impressive in Europe. But the Gulf of Morbihan is not to be outdone. Indeed, Locmariaquer is one of the most important sites. Its large menhir The reason for its construction remains a mystery. How did these people manage to erect such a stone, over 30 meters high? The Table of the Merchants is one of the most famous burial mounds.
In the middle of the Gulf, the Gavrinis siteThe island of the same name is equally impressive and mysterious. Finally, you will undoubtedly sail near the Er Lanic site and its alignments plunging into the sea.
Anchor in the shelter of one of the many islands in the Gulf.
As I was saying, the Gulf of Morbihan The gulf is made up of numerous islands. While some are private, it’s always possible to anchor in their sheltered positions. And this experience is unforgettable. Indeed, the gulf is a very well-sheltered body of water. The islands allow you to anchor in safe waters, regardless of the wind direction. The only issue you’ll encounter is your draft. The choice is yours. You can anchor in a gentle current to try your luck with sea bass or sea bream. Alternatively, you can opt for a beaching along a small shore.
The main islands of the Gulf of Morbihan are the island of Arz, the island of Moines, the island of Oiseaux, the island of Becs, the island of Saint-Cado, the island of Vaux, the island of Locmaria and the island of Berder.
Sail in rough weather
Finally, the Gulf of Morbihan is located in Quiberon Bay in Brittany. This bay is one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Sheltered from westerly winds by the Quiberon peninsula, it is enclosed to the south by three islands: Beautiful Islands Houat and Hoëdic.
The Gulf of Morbihan lies at the head of this bay. It offers a very well-protected body of water. When the wind picks up, or rough weather is forecast, it allows for sailing in sheltered waters. Its size provides a varied and fairly full program for 3-4 days of sailing. Ideal for waiting out the storm and then heading back out to sea.
The most beautiful stopovers in the Gulf of Morbihan
The main ports of the Gulf of Morbihan are Vannes, Arradon, Auray, Larmor-Baden, Port-Navalo, and the Port of Crouesty, at the entrance to the Gulf.
- Saint Goustan: The port of Saint Goustan It is located at the head of the Gulf of Morbihan. An essential stop for those who love historic buildings. The Port of Saint-Goustan is a former trading port, situated at the head of the Auray River, in the Gulf of Morbihan. This place steeped in history is an essential stop on the Gulf of Morbihan, in the Bay of Quiberon.
- Le Bono: Le Bono is a marina located in the Auray river, in the Gulf of Morbihan. The Bono marina Nestled in the Auray River, this small port offers beautiful walks. It lies upstream from Saint Goustan. While the port doesn’t have a pontoon, it provides a comfortable and sheltered stopover.
- Larmor Baden: The marina of Larmor Baden It is located opposite Berder Island and Longue Island, in the Gulf of Morbihan. The Larmor Baden marina is a mooring port. The port offers several visitor buoys and several mooring areas.
- Valves: The Vannes marina It is located at the head of the Gulf of Morbihan. The charm of the countryside and the city. The port of Vannes is located in the heart of the city. A city of art and history. A very beautiful stopover after sailing in the Gulf of Morbihan, between sea and countryside.
- Le Crouesty: The Crouesty Marina is located at the entrance to the Gulf of Morbihan, in Quiberon Bay. Port Du CrouestyLocated in the commune of Arzon at the entrance to the Gulf of Morbihan, this well-equipped and sheltered port is very pleasant in summer. It offers numerous shops and restaurants.
- Locmariaquer: The small port of Locmariaquer It is an oyster farming port on the western shore of the entrance to the Gulf of Morbihan. A stopover reserved for dinghies. Ideal for walks and for enthusiasts of menhirs, tumuli, and all that related culture. A significant site of this civilization.
Tips for navigating in the Gulf of Morbihan:
- Study the tides and currents: The Gulf of Morbihan is subject to significant tides that create strong currents. It is essential to understand the tide times and local currents to plan your travels and avoid dangerous areas. Consult tide tables and use nautical charts to navigate safely.
- Respect navigation zones: The Gulf of Morbihan has many restricted navigation areas and nature reserves. Make sure you are familiar with the rules and restrictions in force in the area, particularly regarding speed, access to certain areas, and the protection of wildlife and vegetation. Respect buoys and signs to avoid sensitive areas.
- Be vigilant of other boaters: The Gulf of Morbihan is a popular sailing area, and there can be a high density of boats, especially during the summer months. Pay attention to other boaters, sailboats, motorboats, kayaks, etc. Respect right-of-way rules and maintain a safe distance.
- Prepare for the weather conditions: Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Gulf of Morbihan. Before setting sail, check the local weather forecast and ensure you have the appropriate equipment on board, including life jackets, sails suited to the conditions, extra anchors, etc. Be prepared to adjust your route according to the weather conditions.