+ €450.00 of mandatory options
Offshore Sailing Course
Lesson objectives
Embark on a true offshore catamaran adventure and enjoy an intensive sailing experience from the French Riviera to the Canary Islands. This voyage is the first leg of the Atlantic crossing and offers a unique opportunity to experience offshore sailing in real conditions.
Highlights include crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, long-distance passages, day and night watchkeeping, onboard life management, and the development of advanced sailing skills. You will actively take part in manoeuvres, lookout duties, weather analysis, and route planning alongside an experienced skipper.
This training course is designed for sailors wishing to gain solid offshore experience, build confidence and autonomy at sea, and discover the realities of long-distance sailing. A unique immersion to learn, improve your skills, and embrace the spirit of ocean passages.
Key features:
- 15 days of offshore sailing
- Passage through the Strait of Gibraltar
- Night sailing and watchkeeping
- Practical and technical training
- Ideal preparation for an ocean crossing
- Authentic experience of life at sea
Approximate distance: 900 nautical miles. A demanding, rewarding, and unforgettable adventure.
Please note:
The course dates are indicative. Departure and return dates may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.
What's included
Instruction
Instruction is provided by a qualified instructor — holding a BPJEPS or a Professional Qualification Certificate — with extensive experience in both teaching and sailing.
Boat use
Our training boats include monohulls and liveaboard catamarans, all equipped with the necessary comforts: double cabins, bathrooms, toilets, and a fully fitted galley, ensuring ideal conditions for sailing.
Fuel
Fuel and consumables (gas) are included in the lesson fee. The mandatory individual pack includes bedding and provisions, allowing you to optimize your time on the water.
Cleaning
The boat used for your lesson is thoroughly cleaned before your arrival and once again after your departure.
Topics covered
- Preparing yourself and the boat
- Manoeuvring under engine and under sail
- Holding a point of sail
- Hoisting and dropping sails, reefing and shaking out
- Entering and leaving port
- Choosing the right tacking or gybing manoeuvre to go upwind or downwind
- Anchoring
- Locating yourself on a chart
- Communicating your difficulties and limitations
- Practising and mastering common safety manoeuvres (stopping, towing, man overboard, etc.)
- Participating in port entries and exits
- Contributing to planning the navigation programme
- Monitoring the condition of the boat
- Understanding where the wind comes from
- Assessing sea state and wind strength
- Understanding the fundamentals of meteorology
FAQ
use of the boat,
supervision by a professional instructor,
nights on board,
safety equipment,
cleaning and fuel.
The mandatory package also includes provisions (3 meals per day), bedding, and FFVoile registration.
comfortable clothing,
a windbreaker or watch jacket,
closed shoes with white soles,
a cap,
sunglasses.
A complete list will be provided once your registration has been confirmed.