The SailLink catamaran, a wind-powered service from Dover to Boulogne, offers a unique cross-Channel experience that prioritizes sailing over engine power. Helmsman Chris O'Brien describes it as "all about tuning into the culture of the sea," noting that passengers often find the meditative experience of sailing healing. Launched last year, SailLink operates up to five times a week between April and mid-September, with a new Shoreham to Fécamp route planned for later this year.
Bike-friendly travel and customs ease
Passengers can bring bikes on board and avoid large customs queues, as officials come to the boat to check documents. The catamaran carries up to 12 passengers, making for an intimate journey. On a recent trip, Paul and Caroline Docherty from York cycled from London through Kent to board. Caroline said, "The cycle was hot and unpleasant so we thought maybe we'd just sail from Hull next time, but I'm sold. I'm loving it."
Exploring Boulogne and the coast
Boulogne-sur-Mer, France's largest fishing port, is deeply shaped by the sea. From there, travelers can pick up ebikes and follow the Vélomaritime cycle path north to Cap Gris-Nez, where the English Channel narrows. The route passes Wimereux's belle epoque villas and Ambleteuse's beach, offering a scenic alternative to the industrial stereotype of Pas-de-Calais.
Saint-Omer and the Audomarois marshes
Inland, Saint-Omer offers the Boat'Om, a restored merchant barge turned guest accommodation with four bedrooms. Owner Angélique Boulet transformed it three years ago, aiming to help visitors disconnect. She said, "We are in the city but all around us are peaceful marshes. You don't realise that if you come by car, but by bike you feel it."
The nearby Audomarois marshes, a Unesco biosphere reserve, are explored via traditional bacôve boats. Guide Hippolyte Petit explains that monks and farmers dug canals centuries ago to support market gardens. France's last postal boat service still operates here, delivering mail to isolated homes.
Traditional boat-building and marsh living
Rémy Colin, of Les Faiseurs de Bateaux, is the last traditional boat-builder in the marshes, creating bacôves from local oak. He said, "We're not just the last boat-builders but also the last boat-maintainers. If we stop, they will disappear." A deeper marsh experience is available at La Fermette de Marie Grouette, a waterside guesthouse only accessible by boat. Owner Muriel Richart serves hampers of local cheeses, smoked fish, and salads for guests to eat anywhere, including on the water.
Practical information
One-way foot passenger fares on SailLink cost £85 per adult and £30 per child, with the last crossing on 20 September. P&O ferries from Calais to Dover start at £30 in summer. Boat'Om rental starts from £250 per night for two, self-catering. Doubles at La Fermette de Marie Grouette start from €94 (£81), B&B.
