Performance Catamaran Course (TS42) with The Sailing Frenchman

- Duration: 7 Days (approx.)
- Product code: FRA-PC-C
Leave cruising speeds behind and discover what real sailing feels like on the dramatic coastlines of France aboard a cutting-edge TS42 performance catamaran.
Our Performance Sailing course isn't about leisurely island hopping—it's about harnessing raw wind power, mastering advanced sail trim, and experiencing the pure adrenaline of a boat designed for speed.
With Hugo's extensive racing experience and renowned expertise, you'll learn to read the wind like never before, fine-tune your sails for maximum efficiency, and maybe even join the 20 knot club!
Perfect for certified sailors looking to break through to the next level or adventurous souls who want to dive straight into the thrill.
Requirements:
Certifications: We recommend skipping certifications on the performance course to maximize the experience. If you're set on getting certified, inquire here, and we’ll connect you with Hugo to see if this course fits your goals or if a standard certification course is a better option.
Date Range: Next course September 6-13, 2025 Please contact us to enquire about any further dates or private group enquiries.
Boat type: TS42 Catamaran
The course fees include:
- 6 nights accommodation aboard a fast cruising catamaran (TS42) perfectly designed for performance and comfort
- Professional Instruction from a professional offshore sailor Hugo Picard (The Sailing Frenchman)
- Breakfast and lunch daily as well as two dinners on the boat
- All fuel, mooring fees, water and ice for the boat
The course fees do not include:
- Travel to and from the course meeting point in Le Crouesty, France
- Meals, drinks and activities ashore
- Instructor gratuity
Sample Itinerary
(Note that the exact route changes each week depending on the weather, crew preferences and any special events that are happening.)
Saturday (Day 1) : Le Crouesty
Arrive at Le Crouesty marina at 9:30am where we'll load provisions, run through essential safety briefings, and get acquainted with our TS42 performance catamaran. We'll set sail quickly to make the most of our first day on the water, introducing you to the responsive handling that makes performance catamarans so thrilling.
Sunday (Day 2) : Lorient
Sail into Lorient, the beating heart of French offshore racing where IMOCAs, ULTIMs and Class 40s are based. Explore docks filled with some of the world's most impressive racing vessels before enjoying dinner in town, where Hugo can share stories from the racing world.
Monday (Day 3) : Concarneau
Navigate to Concarneau Bay, where legends like Michel Desjoyeaux, Jean Le Cam, and Vincent Riou have trained. After practicing performance techniques on water, we'll explore the beautiful old town and treat ourselves to authentic Breton crêpes and cider – a perfect reward after a day of sailing.
Tuesday (Day 4) : Douarnenez
Sail to this charming bay near the tip of Bretagne, surrounded by impressive cliffs and coastal scenery. Take advantage of the beautiful walking routes before a visit to the sailors' favorite Chat Mouette (the seagull cat) pub – and a pro tip from Hugo, don't go there with your foulies.
Wednesday (Day 5) : Les Glénans
Experience sailing in the surprisingly Caribbean-like blue waters. When Hugo was asked he gave his pithy response in favour: “shitloads of rocks and current makes it worth to go have a beer there”. That’s why we love you Hugo.
Thursday (Day 6) : Groix
Discover this classic island with its cycling paths, local cuisine, and impressive landscapes. After a day of sailing, take time to explore ashore and experience authentic island life before our evening meal.
Friday (Day 7) : Hoedic
Visit what might be Brittany's most charming island (or perhaps neighboring Houat, pronounced like "what"). Enjoy a final lunch in this picturesque setting before a swift sail back to Le Crouesty, arriving by 4pm to conclude our performance sailing adventure.
Payment Schedule
When booking with a deposit, the payments will be due according to the following schedule:
- 90 days before course commencement: 50% of the total amount
- 60 days before course commencement: 100% of the total amount