Sailing Across the English Channel: An Unconventional Method for Entering the UK via a Catamaran
In the heart of the English Channel, a new passenger link is making waves. SailLink, a catamaran service established by Captain Andrew Simons, connects the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer in France and Dover in the United Kingdom. This sustainable, zero-emission sailing experience is primarily designed for foot passengers, cycle tourists, and small groups.
Louis Villemin, a cyclist from Strasbourg, recently embarked on this unique journey to discover the United Kingdom. The crossing, covering approximately 50 kilometers, typically takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the weather.
Sailings are powered by wind and electric battery propulsion, making it an eco-friendly alternative to conventional ferry services. The 17-meter-long catamaran, named Ecos, can accommodate up to 12 passengers and 12 bikes.
The crew, led by Captain Simons, plans the amount of sail based on navigation conditions. Today's crossing is expected to take 30 to 45 minutes longer due to strong winds. Despite the extended journey, most clients find the experience more relaxing and easier compared to taking a ferry.
The cost of the crossing is €88 per adult, which includes passport checks conducted at the departure pontoon. This pricing is consistent with a specialized, small-group service focused on active travelers like cyclists and hikers.
Customer experiences are overwhelmingly positive. A British tourist, who recently sailed with SailLink, praised the professionalism of the crew, the excitement of sailing through shipping lanes using massive sails, and the novelty of having passports stamped right on arrival. They found the experience unforgettable and highly recommendable.
However, the operation of the sailboat is limited to the capricious weather of the English Channel, which allows crossings only from April to the end of September. The crew plans to set sail again towards France the next day.
In summary, SailLink serves as a niche, environmentally conscious transport option that blends active travel with a hands-on maritime experience, providing a memorable crossing between Dover and Boulogne-sur-Mer with a focus on sustainability and small group comfort.
Louis Villemin, a cyclist from Strasbourg, decided to indulge in a unique blend of sports and environmental-science, sailing on SailLink's Ecos for a travel experience that offers a lifestyle of eco-consciousness. The crew, as he sails through the environmental-science of the oceanic currents in the English Channel, plans the journey to accommodate the strong winds, ensuring a relaxed travel experience compared to a ferry.
