After leaving our car at the Parking des Îles on the outskirts of Quiberon, a free shuttle bus drops us off a few minutes later at Port Maria. This is where the first differences from a conventional ferry crossing become apparent. The ferry terminal looks remarkably like a railway station, complete with departure screens... but there is no sign of the Iliens catamaran. To find it, simply walk a few dozen yards to a small wooden hut that serves as the ticket office. There are no boarding gates or electronic tickets here. Once our reservation has been confirmed, we are simply handed a small laminated card showing the number of passengers in our party. We then wait outdoors on a simple bench overlooking the harbor.
Boarding takes place in a relaxed atmosphere. Cyclists, families, hikers and even a few dogs come aboard without any rush. As soon as the lines are cast off, the skipper sets the tone: the aim is to sail whenever conditions allow, while still keeping to the published schedule. The crossing takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, compared with about 40 minutes aboard a fast ferry.
Passengers soon settle wherever they please. The more adventurous head for the forward trampolines, which offer spectacular views over the water, while others choose the sheltered seating beneath the aft canopy. In the center of the catamaran, a small bar serves coffee and cold drinks during the crossing. The toilets are located in one of the hulls and are accessed by a ladder.
The crew are very approachable and readily chat with passengers. One of the highlights comes when there is enough wind: four volunteers are invited to hoist the mainsail, encouraged by the amused applause of the other passengers. It's a simple activity, but one that reminds everyone that this is first and foremost a sailing boat. Sometimes the crew even sing along with the passengers. The company's environmental philosophy is also very much part of the experience; when our skipper, Ségolène, spots a plastic bottle drifting at sea, she does not hesitate to retrieve it. The return crossing at the end of the day proves even more enjoyable. With a steady westerly breeze, the catamaran sails on a broad reach, providing a quiet and remarkably smooth passage. In the end, this service is more than just a way of getting to Belle-Île - it becomes an integral part of the excursion. You arrive in Sauzon with the feeling that you've already enjoyed a real day on the water... and you almost find yourself looking forward to the return crossing as much as to exploring the island itself.
Practical Information: Iliens, Crossing Differently
- Unlike conventional ferries, Iliens focuses on sailing whenever possible. The aim is not to set speed records, but to offer a quieter, more environmentally friendly and immersive crossing. Since this year, a second vessel has also been operating services to Le Palais, Belle-Île's main port.
- Route: Quiberon (Port Maria) – Sauzon (Belle-Île)
- Crossing Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- Frequency: Three round trips per day from April to October
- Annual Sailings: Approximately 350, with only 2% cancelled because of weather
- Vessel: Sanoa, a 64' (19.50 m) Ocean Voyager 64
- Capacity: 48 to 80 passengers
- Annual Passengers: 20,000
- Fare: From € 46 per adult (€ 56 in high season)
- Luggage: Bicycles and pets accepted (additional charge)
- On Board: Toilets, hot and cold drinks available at the bar, outdoor seating, forward trampolines
- Our Tip: Arrive around 30 minutes before departure, and if you want to make the most of the sailing experience, choose the forward trampolines—but don't forget your sunglasses, a windbreaker and be prepared for a little sea spray!
