# Sail Away to the Côte d'Opale: A Watery Adventure in Northern France
SailLink launched a game-changing cross-Channel service last year, operating wind-powered catamarans from Dover to Boulogne up to five times weekly between April and mid-September. The new route delivers travelers to France's Pas-de-Calais region, where they can explore the Côte d'Opale and Saint-Omer marshes by bike, boat, and kayak.
The catamaran service represents a departure from traditional ferry travel. Helmsman Chris O'Brien emphasizes the meditative quality of the sailing experience. "It's all about tuning into the culture of the sea," he explains. "People find the water, and the meditative experience of sailing, healing." This approach transforms the Dover-Boulogne crossing from a utilitarian necessity into an experiential journey in itself, using engines only when wind conditions demand it.
SailLink has also expanded its network with a new Shoreham to Fécamp route, opening additional gateways to Normandy. These services appeal to travelers seeking sustainable transit that doubles as leisure activity. The wind-powered model reduces emissions compared to conventional ferries while offering passengers a compelling alternative to rushed channel crossings.
Northern France's Côte d'Opale remains an underrated destination. Boulogne-sur-Mer provides easy access to cycling routes threading through the flat countryside, while the marshes around Saint-Omer offer paddling opportunities through wetlands teeming with birdlife. The region attracts travelers looking beyond the crowded Mediterranean, combining coastal charm with active pursuits.
For budget-conscious adventurers, this approach beats driving across the Channel and offers richer engagement than flying. The crossing duration allows time to adjust mentally to holiday