August 24 – September 9, 2020
We spent close to a week in Port Napoleon checking out the warranty work performed by Allures and prepping the boat. Unfortunately, Charlie badly dislocated his middle right finger which delayed our departure. We were only a 3 handed crew for the first part of our trip. Charlie joked he could no longer give the proper British naval salute to deserving French sailors.
Launch Day in Port Napoleon 
Setting sail with a 3 handed crew
We got away on September 2 and within a day we noticed salt water leaking in and around our engine. We decided to head back to the Volvo mechanic at Port Napoleon after spending the night in Port Gardian. Fortunately, it was a quick repair. We again cast off and headed down the French coast.
Our first stop was an anchorage at Saintes des Maries. The anchorage was deserted, and we enjoyed a quiet, calm first night at sea. A spectacular sunrise greeted us in the morning. It felt great to be back on Chinook.
Sunrise at Saintes des Maries 
Happy to be back on Chinook
Next stop was La Grande Motte, France which is a marina geared towards the elite boaters. We provisioned the boat with food knowing we’d be eating more meals onboard this trip. We left the next day making our way through the busy waters around this marina.
Next, we arrived in Sete, France. Skipper did a great job docking the boat in some heavy wind. There are a few canals running through the town. Sete is sometimes referred to as the Venice of France. We toured the town, tasted the famous Tielle and visited the market for some fresh fish and veggies. Alain from Delta Voiles met us here with our new Code D sail (designed for light wind days) and gave us a demonstration on the use of the sail and other useful tips.
Sete Canals 
Sete Canal System 
Slicing cured meat 
Fresh fish at Sete Market 
Tasting the famous Tielle
Unveiling our new Code D sail – Pink Panther
Heading further down the France coast our next stop was Port Gruissan. There was no wind, so we motored the entire way. It was a long entrance into port, and we docked alongside a wall lined with restaurants and bars. Most places were closed with ‘Vente’ signs which was a cruel reminder of the Covid times.
Our next stop was Spain! Chinook will finally be leaving France.