Winches Club

Winches Club is a non-profit sailing association based in Douarnenez, France, offering activities for people interested in learning, enjoying and competing in sailing. Its program ranges from introductory leisure sailing to offshore cruising and sport sailing, with training designed for a broad public. Members and participants can take practical courses, join training cruises, prepare for the coastal boating licence, and attend theory sessions covering navigation, marine weather, safety and chartwork. The club also provides learning resources and guidance for developing onboard skills.

Winches Club supports both recreational sailing and competitive offshore events, including Mini 6.50 races such as the Trophée Marie-Agnès Péron and Mini Fastnet. It organizes rallies, regattas and club gatherings, and invites volunteers—whether experienced sailors or newcomers—to help deliver race events. The association is run through a collegial governance structure and relies on staff, instructors, volunteer skippers and members. Its activities include opportunities promoting access to sailing for women, practical information for training cruises, and prepaid activity or training passes. A family-income-based pricing system helps make participation accessible.