Plan your sea excursion
in Les Sables d'Olonne
Everything you need to know before departure: meeting point, access, gear and conditions.
Boarding location
Reach Ty Papotte easily, moored at the Ponton du Vendée Globe (Vendée Globe Village pontoon), in the heart of the maritime hub of Les Sables d'Olonne.
Ponton du Vendée Globe
Port Olona — 85100 Les Sables d'Olonne
Arrive at the pontoon 15 minutes before departure. The captain will welcome you for the safety briefing and hand out life jackets.
Get directions on Google Maps View on OpenStreetMapHow to get there
Several simple and practical ways to reach the pontoon.
🅿️ Sablière car park
Free car park nearby, for quick and easy access.
🚌 Bus stop "Vendée Globe"
The bus serves the harbour area directly.
⛴️ Harbour ferry
A pleasant crossing with views over the channel.
🚲 By bike
Many cycle paths lead to the port.
🚐 Les Petites Sablaises
Typical local shuttle service to reach the pontoon at your own pace.
Whether you come by car, public transport or active travel, everything is designed to make your arrival easy. All that's left is to step aboard Ty Papotte and enjoy your time at sea.
What to bring
- Warm, windproof clothing that can handle sea spray (official recommendation)
- Closed shoes with non-slip soles
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Cap or hat with a strap
- Small backpack for your belongings (carry-on luggage allowed on board)
- Camera or phone (waterproof pouch recommended)
- Seasickness medication if you're prone to it
Boarding restrictions
For everyone's safety and comfort, some medical conditions or age limits prevent us from welcoming all passengers on board. Please check these points before booking.
⚠️ We do not board people with:
- • Significant back problems
- • Wearing a neck brace or orthopaedic device
- • Recent surgery
- • Heart conditions
- • Osteoporosis
- • Pregnancy
🧒 Children on board
Boarding from 20 kg up to age 12 (threshold set by the certified life jackets).
Under 12s not allowed on race departures and environmental missions (Cargo Vessel).
👔 Adults
Boarding possible up to 77 years old depending on the trip and sailing conditions.
🐕 Pets
Pets are not allowed on board, even small ones in a carrier.
🚫 Intoxication
The crew reserves the right to refuse boarding or disembark anyone in a state of intoxication, for everyone's safety.
If you have any doubt about your physical condition, contact us before booking.
Cancellation terms
Cancellation by the customer at least 2 days before departure: full refund according to our terms and conditions.
Less than 2 days or no-show: amounts paid are retained, except in cases of force majeure.
Medical reason: refund request possible with supporting documents, to be sent within 15 days of the planned departure date.
Weather cancellation by the captain: free rescheduling on a date of your choice or full refund.
Groups and private charters: specific terms (35% / 50% / 100% depending on notice). See our terms and conditions.
Accessibility — People with reduced mobility
Our equipment has limits and not all people with reduced mobility can be welcomed on board. Boarding remains possible under conditions: being accompanied and able to sit on a seat in the boat.
On some boats, boarding a wheelchair is possible with prior arrangement (separate boarding of the passenger and the chair). Contact us in advance so we can assess feasibility together.
Note: Armen'Dèche cannot be held responsible for the non-compliance of land facilities (pontoons, quays, etc.) with reduced-mobility accessibility.