Nestling between dunes, pine trees and the ocean, the Bay of Arcachon is an invitation to escape. To savour all its magic, there's nothing like a trip on a pinasse, the traditional boat emblematic of the basin. Sailing aboard these elegant boats means discovering the region's natural and heritage riches from a unique vantage point: on the water.
From the Dune du Pilat to the cabanes tchanquées, via the Île aux Oiseaux and the oyster-farming villages, here is our selection of the 10 best boats for an unforgettable experience on the basin.
| Rank | Pinasse / Service provider | Highlights | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arcachon by Pinasse | Pinasse Dubourdieu, an experienced skipper | 12 people. |
| 2 | Pinnace Altaïr | Gastronomic tour with chef on board | 11 people. |
| 3 | Pinasse Aïnhoa | Oyster skipper, personalised trip | 11 people. |
| 4 | Pinasse Agour | 1958 Pinasse, authentic charm | 15 people. |
| 5 | Code Pinasse | Modern comfort, Dubourdieu design | 11 people. |
| 6 | My Pinasse Tour | Silent pinnace, experienced skipper | 12 people. |
| 7 | Pinasse Déborah | Luxury rides, top-of-the-range services | 12 people. |
| 8 | Pinasse Ohana | Recently built, ideal for events | 12 people. |
| 9 | Macymara pinnace | Oyster-farming skipper, friendly atmosphere | 12 people. |
| 10 | Pinasse Tuanis | Passionate skipper, personalised cruises | 12 people. |
Embark with Arcachon by PinasseChoose the excellence of a top-of-the-range service, perfectly rooted in the culture of the Bay of Arcachon. Aboard a sumptuous pinasse Dubourdieu - built in the purest local naval tradition - you are welcomed by Julien, a professional and passionate skipperHe is a connoisseur of tides, landscapes and local history.
Each outing is designed to be an enchanted interlude. Whether you want to discover the cabanes tchanquéesalong the oyster farming villages de l'Herbe and du Canon, admire the Dune du Pilat from the sea or simply enjoy a relaxing a special moment at sunsetEverything is done to make your experience a memorable one.
The pinnaces are equipped to offer optimum comfort The boat has a wide range of facilities: cushioned bench seats, a large table for aperitifs or picnics on board, an awning to shelter from the sun... And above all, a warm and friendly atmosphereand the warm welcome provided by the crew.
It's the ideal option for those who want to experience the Basin in a different way, in a small group, in an authentic, refined and relaxed setting. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Arcachon by Pinasse remains the reference choice for an unforgettable ride on the waters of the Basin.
Capacity: 12 people | Departures from the port of Arcachon or Cap Ferret
5-hour trip. Refined tasting on board with local products.
Oyster farmer Yann offers personalised tours. Departures from various ports.
1958 Pinasse, original wood. Retro atmosphere, perfect for group events.
Modern pinnace with maximum comfort. Private trips depending on the tides.
Bruno will take you on board the "L'Ensorceleuse". A calm ride, perfect for families.
Luxury pinnace, made-to-measure service, ideal for special requests.
Built in 2023, modern facilities. Ideal for EVJF/EVG, birthdays.
Franck, an oyster farmer since 1986, will show you around the basin with humour and friendliness.
Tailor-made trip, with a passionate and flexible skipper. Adapted to special requests.
Whether you're looking for a gastronomic experience, a peaceful stroll or a group outing, the Bay of Arcachon offers a multitude of options aboard pinasses. Each offers a different way to experience the magic of the basin.
If you're travelling to the Bay of Arcachon, take a look at our article on Top 10 VTC drivers in the Bay of Arcachon
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