Hoist the sails and get ready for some excitement. Here, guided by our professional instructors, you can sail the greyhounds of the sea and learn everything about catamarans. A catamaran accelerates quickly and is easier to master than you might think. We promise that hanging on the trapeze at 20 knots is a real thrill. At UCPA we use modern, high-safety boats, mostly the Hobie Cat 16.
A typical day
The first day starts with an introductory meeting where the group and the instructor go through the equipment and safety matters. This is followed by a run-through of the week's plan and what you can expect to get out of it. Lessons last about 2 hours, and over the week you will build up knowledge in both theory and practice.
When & where should I go?
Nov - April
From November to April, head to Le Vauclin & Les Saintes in Martinique. The trade winds make conditions ideal for catamaran sailing.
June - Aug
During this period you will find the best conditions in Benodet, with warm temperatures and steady winds. These months attract many visitors to the region, creating a lively atmosphere both on land and on the water.
May / Sep - Oct
Outside the high season, Giens offers a more relaxed period with fewer tourists and milder temperatures. Sailing conditions are still excellent, with steady winds and a pleasant climate.
How quickly can I learn?
Learning to sail a catamaran can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and how quickly you learn depends on several factors, including any previous experience of sailing or other water sports.
With the help of UCPA's professional instructors, you can expect to start feeling comfortable at a basic level within a few days to a few weeks.
You will learn the basic theory behind sailing. This includes understanding wind direction, how sails work, and the basics of navigation. After the theory comes the practice. Under your instructor's supervision, you will learn to rig the catamaran, handle its sails, steer, and carry out manoeuvres such as tacking and gybing. At first you will learn on calm water to build up your comfort and safety.
Choose the right Catamaran level
1
2
ACTIVITIES
Where can you go?
Destination
UCPA - Freely translated to English as "National Federation for Sports and Outdoor Centers" - has a history of over 50 years. It is, in short, a non-profit, all-French organization supported by, among others, the French state. The purpose is to give ordinary people the opportunity to learn and develop in one or more sports together, in pleasant and unpretentious forms. The organization has about 80 centers in France and the West Indies, 28 of them are located at well-known winter sports resorts in the French Alps.
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