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La Rochelle port boat yacht charter
La Rochelle beautiful port boat charter

Yacht Charter La Rochelle

From our base at Marina Minimes in La Rochelle, sail the Atlantic Ocean and the Charente-Maritime with its 280 miles of sandy coastline and idyllic beaches.

What’s on this page

Highlights

  • 280 miles of sandy coastline
  • Beautiful old town
  • Far of the mass tourism

La Rochelle sailing

La Rochelle quaint house flowers

Running from La Rochelle to the Gironde estuary north of Bordeaux, the Charente-Maritime is a beautiful region on the southwest coast of France. With a rich history, peaceful islands and many hours of sunshine, it’s the ideal location for a sailing vacation.

The old port of La Rochelle, once one of the most important in France, is flanked by two impressive towers, all that remains of the ancient ramparts. During your La Rochelle sailing vacation, be sure you make time to climb to the top of the towers, after which you can enjoy a meal at one of the old port’s many restaurants.

While sailing La Rochelle, the small island of Île de Ré with its sweeping sandy beaches and charming villages should be on your itinerary, as should  Île d’Oléron. It’s here you’ll find notable vineyards, fishing villages and pine forests. 

To get away from it all on your La Rochelle sailing vacation, venture to the more remote Île-d’Aix and explore its many beaches, coastal paths and hidden bays ideal for swimming.

While you don’t require a license to rent a boat in La Rochelle, good sailing experience is recommended. If you’ve no experience, you can always hire a skipper.

La Rochelle lighthouse french coast

Available charter types

Bareboat

For experienced sailors, a bareboat charter is the perfect getaway.
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Skippered

Relax and leave all the sailing to a professional skipper.
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Easy crewed

The simplest, hassle-free way to charter a crewed private yacht.
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Fully crewed

Your own private yacht for an all-inclusive luxury sailing vacation.
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Cabin cruise

Reserve a private ensuite stateroom on a modern catamaran.
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SailShare

Low package rates for island-hopping aboard a sailing yacht.
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Aqualodge

Get closer to nature on the perfect self-catering Caribbean vacation.
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Power Catamaran

Cruise faster and see more on the perfect charter boat.
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Things to do in La Rochelle

La Rochelle boat sailing adventure yacht charter

Explore Île de Ré

There are many things to do in La Rochelle, but we would definitely recommend climbing to the top of the Lighthouse of Île de Ré for an amazing view of the Bay of Biscay and the Atlantic Ocean. After descending the hundreds of steps of its spiral staircase, call in for lunch at Saint-Martin-de-Ré, or take a tour of the walled city and fortress

The nature reserve of Île d’Yeu

The island boasts over 700 species of wild plants, many of which flower year-round. The coast, moors and wooded area are protected, with its dunes and rocky coast noted for their biodiversity.

Visit Île d’Oléron

One of our favorite things to do in La Rochelle is touring the oyster capital of Le Château d’Oléron with its multicolored fishing huts. While on the island, relax on the fine beaches of Vert-Bois and La Rémigeasse, or head to the seaside resort of Le Grand-Village-Plage.

Go bird-spotting at Île d’Aix

With just 200 residents, this small island is a secluded spot which offers perfect shelter for seabirds and hundreds of other species.

Head out to Fort Boyard

During your yacht charter in La Rochelle, sail around this Napoleonic Fort Boyard. Built in the 1800s, it once housed 250 soldiers and is now a popular shooting location for movies and TV shows.

Weather insights

La Rochelle sea way nature coast

When is the best time to go to La Rochelle?

The best time to visit La Rochelle is between May and October, when you will enjoy the best temperatures. Summers are sunny, dry and hot (between 77ºF and 86ºF) and there can be a strong wind in the afternoon. Temperatures in spring and fall are mild (around 68ºF) and the weather is sunny with a little rain.

What are the sailing conditions in La Rochelle?

The sailing conditions in La Rochelle include northerly prevailing winds in summer, becoming southwesterly when there is low pressure coming in from the Atlantic Ocean.

La rochelle adventure sailing yacht charter

La Rochelle sailing with Dream Yacht Charter

Yacht charter La Rochelle

Sail from La Rochelle and explore the nearby islands of the Charente-Maritime coastline. Take the helm and plan your dream vacation on one of our catamarans or monohulls.

Skippered yacht charters La Rochelle, France

You don’t need experience to enjoy a sailing vacation in La Rochelle. We can find a skipper to sail your yacht while you enjoy the best of the region while relaxing.

La Rochelle yacht charter

La Rochelle sailing itinerary

Take a look at our La Rochelle sailing vacation suggestions

La Rochelle surfing couple beach vacation 8-day itinerary La Rochelle

Day 1: La Rochelle – Saint-Martin-de-Ré

After departing, set sail for Île de Ré. Sail leisurely before passing under the famous bridge and continue until Saint-Martin-de-Ré. Moor in the small port for the evening and enjoy a meal on the terrace overlooking the lighthouse. Discover Saint-Martin, with its UNESCO heritage fortifications by military engineer Vauban, the museum Cognacq-Jay or the famous Baudet of Poitou donkeys.

Day 2: Saint-Martin-de-Ré – Ile d’Yeu

Leave early and set sail for the Ile d’Yeu, which will take five hours of sailing. You can dock at Port Joinville, on the north coast of the island, with its typical white houses and numerous fishing shops.

Day 3 and 4: Ile d’Yeu

Sail around the island of Yeu where many anchorages await you for swimming. You can also enjoy nature by renting bicycles, or for pleasant walks, enjoy the marked hiking routes and the coastal path.

Day 5: Ile d’Yeu – Ars-en-Ré

Leave in the late morning towards Ars-en-Ré, a charming little village northwest of the island of Saint-Martin-Ré. Enjoy your end of the day and a quiet evening.

Day 6: Ars-en-Ré – Island of Oléron

Sail towards Oléron. Leave the Whale Lighthouse behind and set sail towards the marina of Saint Denis d’Oléron. Take the opportunity to discover the Lighthouse Chassiron, the traditional small streets of Saint Denis and its fishing harbor, in operation for centuries.

Day 7: Oléron – Île d’Aix

After touring the famous Napoleonic fortification of Fort Boyard, Île d’Aix awaits you. Anchor and disembark to enjoy the quiet streets and the protected climate of this small island, which hosted Napoleon before his exile to St. Helena. You can walk around the island without any worries as there is only 4m of coastline, and you can discover the small coves perfect for swimming.

Day 8: Return to Marina Minimes

In the late afternoon, return to the Marina Minimes to disembark. And don’t forget to get back in touch to book your next dream yacht charter.

Useful information for yacht charters in La Rochelle

La Rochelle port restaurant sailing boat

Where is La Rochelle?

La Rochelle is a coastal city located in the west of France. It lies on the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic Ocean.

How do I get to La Rochelle from the US?

To get to our base for your yacht charter in La Rochelle, fly from the US to Paris or other European cities. 

You can get a connecting flight to La Rochelle’s regional airport, Île de Ré Airport (LRH), which receives several direct flights a day from Paris, Portugal, the UK, Belgium and Switzerland. See the airport website for more information.

We can arrange airport transfers to our marina.

What language is spoken in La Rochelle?

The official language of La Rochelle is French.

What is the currency for La Rochelle?

The currency in La Rochelle is the Euro (EUR).

What documents do I need for a La Rochelle sailing vacation?

US citizens must have a passport issued within the past 10 years. This must be valid for a minimum of six months at date of entry and for additional three months beyond the planned date of departure. Visas are not required for stays of less than 90 days. 

Talk to us to make sure you have the correct documents before you travel for your La Rochelle sailing vacation.

How do I get around La Rochelle?

You can get around La Rochelle by rental car, taxi, bus or train. We can arrange airport transfers, so please contact us for details.

What is the Wi-Fi like in La Rochelle?

There is free Wi-Fi at our marina and internet access is available via cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots, but you may need to pay. Cell phones can work depending on zones, but don’t forget the roaming fees.

Where can I find weather forecasts in La Rochelle?

You can find weather forecasts on the Windguru website for your La Rochelle yacht charter.

What provisioning is there in La Rochelle?

There are plenty of choices for provisioning in La Rochelle. Please refer to the base guide.

What baggage can I take on my La Rochelle sailing vacation?

Please  take only soft bags and not suitcases as they are too cumbersome on board.

What is the electrical current in La Rochelle?

The land electrical current in La Rochelle is 220V.

What is the dialing code for La Rochelle?

The dialing code for La Rochelle is +33.

Why should I book with Dream Yacht?

Dream Yacht Worldwide is now the world’s leading yacht charter company and offers you:

  • A diverse fleet of yachts with a wide variety of models and manufacturers to suit every type of sailor.
  • We have +60 exciting destinations and we’re a pioneer in finding new sailing grounds.
  • You can be assured of our commitment to customer service excellence.
  • You’ll receive a warm and friendly welcome from our base teams who will share regional tips, recommendations and advice.
  • We’re also a trusted seller of new and used boats and an innovator in charter management options – sailing is our business.

What licenses do I need to hire a yacht and sail myself?

The skipper of a yacht has primary responsibility for the safety of the crew and yacht at all times. Many destinations require just relevant experience demonstrated by a sailing resume.

To charter in the Mediterranean, it is mandatory that you hold a sailing license recognized by the local port authorities for bareboat charters in Italy, Greece, Croatia, Spain, Malta, Montenegro and Turkey. Other destinations that require a license include Madagascar, Seychelles, Thailand, Brazil and Sweden. For Belize, the port authority will issue a certificate of competency and an application is made on arrival.

You must take your proof of competency and original certificate with you on your charter. We advise you to contact our team about your qualifications and destination requirements before booking.

By accepting the yacht contract you are confirming that you and/or members of your crew are capable and competent to sail the yacht in the conditions and cruising area of the charter. We reserve the right not to hand over the yacht if, after inspection, it is the opinion that the charterer is not, or may not be competent to be in charge of the vessel.

What is a skippered yacht charter?

A skippered yacht charter is when you rent one of our boats for you and your guests and a professional skipper sails it for you. No sailing experience is needed.

You will need to choose a yacht with a cabin for your skipper to sleep in as they are responsible for your yacht for the duration of your charter. We will find the skipper for you once you have found your perfect destination and yacht.

You will need to pay for your skipper’s food. You can invite the skipper to dine with you on board or out at a local restaurant.

What is the difference between crewed and by the cabin charters?

Our by the cabin charter charters offer exciting destination tours on a set itinerary crafted by our destination experts. You can book a double cabin and private bathroom and will share the boat with other guests who have booked the other available cabins. You will be looked after by a professional skipper and hostess with itineraries ranging from three to 11 nights. There is a set menu and included meals and drinks vary depending on location.

Can you tell me about your yachts?

Our super premier yachts are less than 12 months old from their first charter date, while premier yachts are less than three years old from their first charter date. Our yachts are well maintained and undergo regular, scheduled technical inspection.

In case of emergency, you can rely on our hotline, at any time, seven days a week. If you experience a technical failure affecting major and important parts of the yacht, we will repair the failure within four hours of receiving your call during working hours (8am to 5pm). If you lose more than four hours (during working hours), we will compensate you for one full day. If the repair takes more than one day, we will provide you with a similar boat or compensate you on a pro-rata basis. If restrictions to this guarantee apply in specific areas, this will be detailed during the charter check-in at the base.

Do I need insurance?

We highly recommend you arrange travel insurance in case you need to cancel for an unexpected reason to cover non-refundable deposits. Please make sure you have personal travel insurance that covers sailing.

We will insure the vessel throughout the charter with first-class insurers against all risks, to provide permission to charter as under contract terms and to cover third-party liability.

The following options are available in limited locations:

  • Security Deposit: This varies on the size of the boat and when the boat is returned without damage it is refunded.
  • Damage Waiver: The charterer agrees to pay a non-refundable damage waiver at the time of booking, as well as a reduced damage deposit on embarkation that is refundable upon completion of the charter should no damage occur.

Ever considered a Cabin Cruise?

As pioneers in the industry, Dream Yacht was one of the first to develop the Cabin Cruise concept. It’s an ideal choice for solo or couples travelers seeking relaxed adventure, exotic destinations, and unique local cultures in an intimate, social setting – in comfort at sea.

Our promise

Private accommodations

Comfortable and private standard double cabins with ensuite bathroom

Curated itineraries

Experience world-class destinations, local culture and excursions with our expertly curated itineraries

Accessible

An affordable and intimate experience without the need to book an entire yacht or provide sailing qualifications

Vetted crew

Enjoy our professional crew with a strong local knowledge and friendly service

Full board meals

Enjoy fresh and delicious cuisine prepared and served daily

Choose your mood

Relax on deck socializing with fellow travelers, kayak or snorkel from your yacht, or enjoy exploring ashore

Get inspired! #MyDreamYacht

Follow our customer’s journeys & then get ready to share your own amazing experiences on Instagram

Simply wonderful! Fred + Isabelle were so accommodating and did so much for us. Isabelle’s food was incredible. Thank you so much!

Laura

Exumas Cabin

Great class. Very professional and great service!

Thomas

Antigua Bareboat

Just what we needed to get out of a year of lockdown, see new places and connect with nature. Highly recommended for your next sailing adventure!

Johan

St. Martin Bareboat

Excellent cruise and wonderful stay on board. Skipper attentive, very pleasant and very professional.

Maxime

Guadeloupe Skippered

I have just returned from another fantastic week of sailing at your base in Pula and would like to thank everyone involved for making this possible at such short notice and without any problems.

Mathias

Guadeloupe Bareboat

The marina itself is a perfect base with super facilities! The Lagoon 42 was in good condition and the skipper was fantastic and knew the area very well.

Jonathan

Croatia Skippered

What an EXCELLENT experience. We just returned from a week long charter with skipper from Corfu, sailing around the beautiful islands of the Ionian Sea. Paxos, Antipaxos and the old town of Corfu were beautiful and the secluded bays we got to visit thanks to our local skipper Nicholas were simply stunning. Fly and Flops was yesterday – we will only charter with Dream Yacht for the foreseeable future.

David

Greece Skippered

Our group of 10 had a WONDERFUL time in French Polynesia from May 21-28, 2022! The food was fantastic: captain and cook, husband and wife: Henry and Mehee (sp) were amazing and the whole experience on board was a dream! We can’t wait to book another trip through Dream Yacht

Katie

Tahiti Crewed Premium

Dream Yacht provided a great sailing experience for my extended family on 2 monohulls from Scrub Island. The boats were in very good condition and perfectly prepared, the staff friendly and helpful. I had worked for a number of charter companies over the years but Dream Yacht is one of the

Charlie

British Virgin Islands Bareboat

I am in the Maldives right now and having the time of my life. Captain Jack and the crew are professional, safe and fun! The boat is optimal and the food is delicious. The chef even bakes CAKE! The beds are surprisingly comfortable and we sleep 9 hours every night. If you like island hopping, there is no better option than Dream Yacht. We will be booking Tahiti next year.

Cynthia

Maldives Cabin

The new boat was in perfect condition and best condition for exploring bays and islands. I could never have imagined that this could be so much fun and enjoyable and we are already looking forward to the next upcoming trip in the Ionian Sea.er.

Vytautas

Scandinavia Bareboat

Baja is now my favorite place. There was something for everyone: sailing under northerly winds with mostly calm evenings, snorkeling, fishing, secluded sandy beaches, pelican feedings, being greeted by barking sea lions, and exploring the geology of Ispiritu Santo Island. Dream Yacht Base La Paz provided competent professional support with a well-equipped and maintained boat. We were wonderfully cooked by an on-board chef arranged with Dream Yacht, which meant more free time for all of us. An unforgettable vacation and adventure connected with nature.

Taiyoko

Mexico Crewed Premium

All the staff were fantastic and made our trip a memorable one. Incredibly friendly and welcoming, the food was fantastic. The service throughout the trip was always top notch!

Tommy

Thailand Cabin

Absolutely recommendable. Perfect service. Will charter again and recommend Dream Yacht Charter anytime.

Zahradnik

Turkey Bareboat

I just returned from 3 weeks of fantastic sailing with my family on one of your catamarans in Sardinia. My thanks to our skipper Simone and Daniela, our cook.

Giles

Sardinia Skippered

For a first cruise as a skipper, the Mediterranean is perfect. The service of Dream Yacht is too!

Thomas

France Bareboat

We had an incredible trip and got engaged on our very first night of sailing! We will surely come back one day. We were beginners, we were guided very well and that gave us a lot of confidence.

George

Australia Bareboat

The experience on board far exceeded our expectations. Isabelle provided exceptional three course meals. Her creativity and delicious meals were incredible. Thomas was an excellent skipper, he “felt” our needs. Thanks guys!” Spira, bareboat with crew in New Caledonia.

Spira

New Caledonia Crewed Premium

Once again a fantastic sail with a great crew. Thanks again to a great captain and cook. Was totally fantastic.

Connie

Seychelles Cabin

A very excellent sailing vacation – especially the crew was fantastic. I would sail with Dream Yacht again and highly recommend them.

Mark

Guadeloupe Bareboat

I loved the vacation and am not sure this trip can ever be topped. Everything about it was incredible. The captain and crew were great, helpful, friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. We loved it.

Trina

Greece Crewed Premium

We just returned from one of your Lagoon 52F’s last week in St. Thomas! We had the trip of a lifetime sailing around St. Thomas and St. John!

Megan

US Virgin Islands Bareboat

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