On 31 January and 1 February, the Thalassa Peniche in Paris hosted the 13th edition of the Blue Water Sailing Seminar, organised by Grand Large Yachting. Two intense days of discussions, testimonials and knowledge sharing, organised to support those who dream of setting sail on a long voyage… and want to turn that dream into a reality.
Over the years, this seminar has become an unmissable event for future sailors. Once again this year, the collective energy was palpable from the very beginning. As Matthieu Rougevin-Baville, Outremer Sales Director, sums it up:
“It’s quite fascinating to see people, couples, arrive with a project that is often very vague and little known, and to see them transform in a matter of hours.”
From doubt to confidence: the strength of the collective
What strikes you when the participants arrive is the diversity of their profiles… and the similarity of their questions. Budget, technique, safety, legitimacy: there are many questions. But very quickly, discussions get underway, experiences are shared and projects take shape.
“People realise that they are not alone, that they share the same desires and fears. Above all, they understand that their dream is not crazy and that it can be built, step by step,” continues Matthieu.
As discussions evolve, a genuine temporary community is formed. Participants exchange contact details, consider sailing together, and decide to take training courses together. A particularly striking phenomenon concerns female crews:
“Groups of women sometimes arrive with a certain degree of hesitation… and leave feeling very enthusiastic, ready to train together and get started.”
Life projects taking shape
Beyond inspiration, the Grande Croisière Seminar is resolutely practical. Over two days, participants benefit from feedback from owners of the Grand Large Yachting group, presentations by experts and experienced sailors, including Roland Jourdain, two-time winner of the Route du Rhum.
Boat preparation, choosing between new and used, essential equipment, financing, routes and weather conditions, safety at sea: each major topic is addressed in a pragmatic manner. The objective is clear: to provide a realistic vision of the project and the steps necessary to achieve it.
As Matthieu points out:
“People understand that a long cruise takes time to plan. A few months, sometimes a year or two of preparation and training. And above all, they realise that you learn by doing.”
Outremer, at the heart of support
Through this seminar, Outremer Catamarans is affirming its role as going far beyond boat building. In conjunction with the Outremer Academy, led by Camille Allard, and the Grand Large Yachting ecosystem, the brand is establishing itself as a long-term partner in long-distance cruising projects.
Technical training, support in getting started, sharing experiences: everything is designed to enable future sailors to set off with peace of mind, confidence and a strong support network.
“Don’t be afraid, just go for it.”
The main lesson from this 13th edition? It can be summed up in a few simple words:
“Life is short. Don’t be afraid, just go for it. It’s not that complicated, and above all… you learn as you go.”
This conviction was shared by all the speakers and participants, who left Paris with much more than a dream: a clear vision, valuable contacts and the momentum needed to make their grand cruise a reality.
Continue navigation
2026 Outremer Cup: A week of sailing, sharing and team spirit in the Bahamas
The 2026 Outremer Cup came to a close against the stunning background of the Bahamas, following several days filled with fleet sailing, daily regattas, conversations among owners, and all those simple moments that make the Outremer community so special.
Outremer 57 No. 1: the beginning of a true sea story
There is a special moment at the shipyard: when a new model finally leaves the stage of plans, choices, and prototypes to become a boat in the making. Today, the Outremer 57 No. 1 is entering production.