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The 10 Best Boat Trips on the Bay of Arcachon

Top 10 boat trips on the Bay of Arcachon, with the traditional Arcachon Pinasse in the lead for an unforgettable outing.

Do you dream of a boat trip on the Bay of Arcachon ? Whether you're looking for a moment of escape, a family adventure or a breathtaking panorama, here's our Selection of the 10 best boat trips on the Bay of Arcachon. And our favourite is undoubtedly the release in traditional pinnace with Arcachon by Pinasse !

RankCompanyHighlights
1 Arcachon by PinasseTraditional pinnace, passionate skipper-guide, tailor-made route, intimate atmosphere
2 The Côte d'ArgentHybrid maxi-catamaran, panoramic views, tastings, general public/privatisation package
3 TikifloComfortable barge, year-round outings, accessible for PRMs and pets, friendly atmosphere
4 Jalilo3-hour walk at €35, ocean views, unusual route
5 Boat trip-ArcachonClassic routes, historical commentary, views of the Dune du Pilat and Ile aux Oiseaux
6 Bateliers ArcachonnaisVaried tours from 1 to 2.5 hours, family atmosphere, affordable prices
7 Vent d'Arguin (catamaran)Spacious catamaran, festive atmosphere, ideal for groups and sailing aperitifs
8 Bat'ExpressPrivate boats, passionate local skippers, personalised services
9 Boatmen - Île aux OiseauxSpecialising in sensitive areas, close to nature, local biodiversity
10 SamBoat (free hire)Skippered charter, total sailing freedom for the more adventurous

Why choose a boat trip on the Bay of Arcachon?

Le Arcachon Basin is one of the pearls of the Atlantic coast, between the Pilat Dune, cabanes tchanquées, oyster-farming villages and immaculate sandbanks. A boat trip here, it's much more than a excursion It's a sensory immersion, a discovery of unique landscapes, between sky and sea.

🥇 1. Arcachon en Pinasse - The traditional experience (Our COUP DE COEUR ❤️)

Sailing on a pinasseto travel back in time. This wooden boat, emblematic of the Basin, takes you back in time to local history. With Arcachon by PinasseEach tour is personalised and guided by a local enthusiast. In a small group (up to 11 people), in an intimate and authentic atmosphere, you'll discover must-see places like the Île aux Oiseaux, the Dune du Pilat and the villages of Cap Ferret. Modern comfort, silent engine, roof, audio - everything is designed for pleasure.

🥈 2. The Côte d'Argent - The life-size catamaran

This hybrid maxi-catamaran offers cruises with panoramic views, oyster tastings, sunsets and private outings. It's ideal for large groups or families looking for a convivial experience.

🥉 3. Tikiflo - The comfortable barge

Tikiflo offers an ultra-convenient barge with a shower, solarium and Bluetooth sound system, and is accessible to people with reduced mobility. Ideal for tailor-made outings, sunrises or sunsets.

4. Jalilo - Small price, big adventure

Jalilo offers a 3-hour trip for €35 per person. It's great value for money, for a longer-than-average tour of the passes and ocean views.

5. Boat trip-Arcachon - The classic must-see

A well-paced tour with commentary suitable for all the family. You'll discover the great classics of the Basin, with historical explanations and local anecdotes.

6. Bateliers Arcachonnais - Variety and accessibility

Themed tours, varied durations, an accessible atmosphere and competitive prices: it's the perfect broad-spectrum offer for families or first-time discoverers of the Basin.

7. Vent d'Arguin - Festive catamaran

For a memorable group experience: spacious catamaran, drinks on board, music and a trip to the Banc d'Arguin. Atmosphere guaranteed.

8. Bat'Express - Flexibility and local service

Since 2005, these passionate sailors have been offering personalised outings on private boats. Perfect for an intimate, tailor-made experience.

9. Boatmen - Île aux Oiseaux - Nature immersion

A special tour of the Île aux Oiseaux and its "cabanes tchanquées", highlighting the biodiversity and natural heritage of the Basin.

10. SamBoat - Total freedom

Do you have a driving licence? Hire a boat and set off on an adventure, at your own pace. It's the perfect formula for independent explorers.

Conclusion

Whether you choose the intimacy of a pinnace, the festive atmosphere of a catamaran or the freedom of a bareboat charter, a boat trip on the Bay of Arcachon remains a unforgettable experience. Each of the providers in this top 10 offers a unique angle from which to explore this jewel of the Atlantic coast.