Bénodet marina — ©Marina|Guillaume Le Chanu

Boating in Bénodet a strong link with the sea

Bénodet is not just a pleasant seaside resort: it’s also a lively port, shaped by decades of yachting. From the earliest days of sea bathing to competitive sailing, Bénodet’s relationship with the sea is steeped in history.

Ferry from Bénodet to Sainte-Marine at the beginning of the 20th century — ©The ferry from Bénodet to Sainte-Marine at the beginning of the 20th century|Ville de Bénodet

©The Trez beach in Bénodet at the beginning of the 20th century|Ville de Bénodet

From chic beginnings to the first infrastructures

It all began in the early 20th century, when the bourgeoisie discovered the benefits of sea bathing. Elegant villas and charming hotels sprang up along the coastline. Bénodet became a popular destination, attracting a wealthy clientele.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the first yachtsmen began to dock. Modest pontoons were used to moor boats. These were the beginnings of organised pleasure boating.

The post-war period: yachting takes off

The 50s and 60s marked a real turning point. Recreational boating exploded. The port was gradually equipped with sanitary facilities, fuel, quayside services, etc. Yacht clubs were set up, and sport sailing took off.

Among them, the Yacht Club de l’Odet (YCO) played a key role. Created from the merger of several small clubs, it became a major player in the South Brittany sailing scene. Thanks to the YCO, Bénodet has established itself as a stopover of choice for major cruising races. The organisation of large-scale events attracted sailors from all over the Atlantic seaboard.

In the 70s and 80s, infrastructure continued to improve, with electricity, fresh water and improved port services. The port’s reputation grew. It became a landmark for all those who like to take to the sea.

A lively, well-equipped port

Today, Bénodet has a modern harbour capable of accommodating several hundred boats. Boaters can find all the services they need here: repairs, maintenance, supplies, etc. But it’s also a lively place, with restaurants, nautical shops and activities for all the family. A real gateway to the ocean.

With the development of yachting, sailing has become a more accessible leisure activity. Sailing schools and nautical centres have sprung up all over the place, giving everyone – children and adults alike – the chance to learn or improve their skills.

Water sports

The ports

Situated at the mouth of France’s most beautiful river, the Odet, and facing the Glénan archipelago, Bénodet has two harbours: the old port and the marina.

A shared passion, all year round

There’s no shortage of activity: regattas, old-rigger gatherings, festivals… Bénodet lives to the rhythm of nautical events all year round.

The Rendez-vous de la Belle Plaisance has become one of the highlights. Created in 2001 by theYCO, every summer it brings together some of the finest traditional sailing boats on the Atlantic coast. It’s a moment where maritime heritage and a passion for the sea come together.

Boating in Bénodet a strong link with the sea

The post-war period: yachting takes off

A lively, well-equipped port

A shared passion, all year round

Discover Bénodet in all its aspects